NAain  Lllb. 


nOnXA,  >  Jbc?r^L^tMA4 


LIBRARY 

OF    THE 

UNIVERSITY  OF  CALIFORNIA. 


zAccession  86161        Cl(us  biology 

LIBRARY 


VETERINARY 


Materia  Medica 


AXD 


THERAPEUTICS 


Kenelm  Winslow,  B.A.S.;  fl.D.V.;  fl.D.  (Harv.) 

Assistant  Professor  of  Therapeutics   in  the  Veterinary  Schooi.  of 
Harvard  Univkrsity  ;  Fellow  of  Massachusetts  Medical  Society  ; 

SURGE'aN  TO  THE  NEWTON  HOSPITAL,  ETC.  * 


New  York 

WILLIAM   R.    JENKINS 

851-853  Sixth  Ave. 


1901 


/ 


COPTRIOHT,  1901 

By  WILLIAM  R.  JENKINS 


Published  June,  1901 

tRegistered  at  Stationers'  Hall,  London] 

FrinHed  in  the  United  States  of  America 


PRINTED  BY  THE 

Press  of  William  R.  Jenkins 
New  York 


PREFACE. 


The  writer  wishes  to  acknowledge  his  indebtedness  to 
the  works  of  Brunton,  Wood,  Hare,  Edes,  Ringer,  Bar- 
tholow,  White  and  Mann,  in  human  medicine ;  and  to  those 
of  the  following  veterinary  writers :  Finlay  Dun,  Fried- 
berger  and  Frohner,  Ellenberger,  Koch,  Cagny,  Miiller ; 
and  to  thft  leading  veterinary  periodicals. 

The  matter  on  "properties,"  ^description,"  and,  in 
many  cases,  "derivation,"  is  according  to  the  U.  S.  Phar- 
macopoeia, while  the  important  preparations  of  both  the 
U.  S.  and  British  Pharmacopoeias  are  included.  The  classi- 
fication and  arrangement  of  drugs  employed  in  this  book 
are  modifications  of  those  adopted  by  W.  Hale  White  in  his 
excellent  treatise  on  Materia  Medica,  Pharmacology  and 
Therapeutics. 


861G1 


CONTENTS. 


PAGE 

Preliminary  Considerations 1 

Definitions 1 

Mode  of  Action  of  Drugs 2 

Absorption  of  Drugs 3 

Elimination  **     "      4 

Circumstances  Modifying  the  Action  of  Drugs 6 

Mode  of  Administration 6 

Dosage 9 

Anatomy  and  Physiology 11 

Time  of  Administration 13 

Habit 13 

Disease 13 

Idiosyncrasy. , 14 

General  Actions  of  Drugs 15 

Drugs  Acting  on  the  Digestive  Organs 15 

"      Circulation 32 

"      Nervous  System 37 

"     Respiratory  Organs 46 

**      Urinary  Organs 52 

"     Sexual  Organs 56 

"       Influencing  Metabolism 59 

Bodily  Heat 60 

'*       Acting  on  the  Skin * 62 

Pharmacy 70 

Incompatibility 81 

Prescription  Writing 84 

Classification 109 

V 


VI  CONTENTS 

Inorganic  Agents 113 

Vegetable  Drugs 331 

Dose  Table 630 

General  Therapeutic  Measures 648 

Food  and  Feeding 648 

Counter-irritants 665 

Cold  and  Heat 673 

Disinfectants,  Antiseptics  and  Deodorants. 686 

Venesection 696 

Transfusion 700 

Intravenous  Saline  Infusions 700 

Hypodermoclysis 702 

Enteroclysis 703 


PRELIMINARY    CONSIDERATIONS. 


Definitions. 

Pharmacology  is  derived  from  the  Greek,  PharmahoSy 
a  drug,  and  is  the  sum  of  all  exact  knowledge  pertaining  to 
drugs,  and  therefore  embraces  Materia  Medica,  Therapeu- 
tics, and  Pharmacy. 

Materia  Medica,  derived  from  two  Latin  words  signi- 
fying medical  materials,  treats  of  the  derivation,  natural 
history,  physical  and  chemical  properties,  physiological 
actions,  doses,  and  tests  of  purity  of  drugs.  A  special  term 
sometimes  used  to  describe  the  physical  and  chemical 
properties  of  drugs  is  Pharmacognosy ,  while  Pharmxxco- 
dynamics  refers  to  the  action  of  drugs  on  healthy  animals. 

Therapeutics,  derived  from  the  Greek,  Therapevo,  mean- 
ing to  serve  or  attend  the  sick,  is  that  branch  of  knowledge 
which  treats  of  the  application  of  all  means — medicinal 
or  otherwise — to  the  cure  of  disease  or  relief  of  pain.  The 
term  has  been  further  subdivided  as  follows:  Bational 
Therapeutics,  which  treats  of  the  application  of  drugs  as 
founded  on  their  physiological  actions;  Empirical  Thera- 
peutics, the  use  of  drugs  as  based  on  clinical  evidence ;  and 
General  Therapeutics,  the  use  of  remedial  agents  other  than 
drugs,  e.g..  Heat,  Cold,  Electricity,  Food,  etc. 

Pharmacy  is  the  art  of  preparing,  compounding,  dis- 
pensing and  preserving  drugs. 

Toxicology,  derived  from  the  Greek,  Toxikon,  a  poison,  is 
that  branch  of  knowledge  which  treats  of  the  nature,  actions, 
detection  and  treatment  of  poisons. 

A  medicine  is  an  agent  of  animal,  vegetable  or  mineral 
origin  used  for  the  cure  of  disease  or  relief  of  pain.  The 
word  cure,  signifies  literally  to  care  for,  from    the    Latin 


53  PRELIMINARY  CONSIDERATIONS 

CurOj  and  did  not  in  its  original  sense  mean  to  restore  to 
health,  although  that  is  its  present  interpretation. 

A  Drug,  derived  from  the  Dutch,  Droog^  meaning  dry, 
is  now  used  synonymously  with  medicine,  although  origin- 
ally referring  to  an  herb  or  dried  medicinal  plant. 

Mode  of  Action  of  Bruges. 

Drugs  act  locally  when  they  influence  a  part  with  which 
they  come  in  contact,  and  also  when  they  affect  one  organ 
or  apparatus  after  absorption.  The  first  meaning  is  the 
usual  one. 

Drugs  act  generally  when  they  impress  the  body  as  a 
whole  after  absorption.  Drugs  applied  to  the  unbroken 
skin  usually  act  locally  because  they  are  commonly  unab- 
sorbed;  also  when  drugs,  insoluble  in  the  digestive  tract 
(as  charcoal  and  chalk),  are  given  internally  they  act  locally 
for  the  same  reason.  The  local  action  of  drugs  after  ab- 
sorption is  sometimes  known  as  selective  action,  i.e.,  the  power 
that  most  drugs  possess  to  influence  one  organ  or  apparatus 
rather  than  the  whole  system.  Oftentimes  this  local  action, 
in  the  case  of  secreting  glands,  is  accomplished  through 
stimulation  of  these  parts  during  elimination  of  the  drug. 
Occasionally  a  medicine  acts  both  on  the  part  with  which 
it  comes  in  contact  and  also  through  the  circulation ;  e.g., 
tartar  emetic  causes  emesis  by  local  stimulation  of  the 
stomach  and  by  stimulation  of  the  vomiting  centre  after 
absorption.  Furthermore,  remedies  are  said  to  exert  a 
primary  (or  immediate)  and  secondary  (or  remote)  action. 

The  secondary  effect  is  the  result  of  the  primary  action; 
eg.,  a  saline  cathartic  primarily  removes  serous  fluid  from 
the  bowels  and  secondarily  or  remotely  leads  to  absorption 
of  serous  exudations  ;  a  counter-irritant  primarily  produces 
irritation  of  the  skin  and  sensory  nerve-endings,  but  second- 
arily relieves  internal  congestion  by  inducing  reflex  contrac- 
tion of  the  subjacent  blood  vessels.  Most  drugs  are  absorbed 
into  the  blood  after  their  iDgestion  and  exert  their  action  on 
various  parts  of  the  body  through  the  medium  of  the  ner- 


ABSORPTION  OF  DRUGS  6 

vous  system.  Some  drugs,  however,  may  directly  influence 
muscular  tissue,  as  is  seen  in  the  supposed  action  of  digitalis 
on  the  nerve-free  heart's  apex;  while  others  may  imme- 
diately act  on  the  cells  of  an  organ,  as  pilocarpine  on 
the  sweat  glands.  As  in  the  latter  instance,  it  is  usually  im- 
possible to  determine  whether  medicines  affect  the  cells 
of  an  organ  or  nerve-endiugs  in  the  organ.  Our  knowledge 
of  the  curative  action  of  medicines  is  chiefly  derived  from 
clinical  experience,  or  deduced  from  the  effects  of  drugs  on 
healthy  animals.  It  is,  however,  sometimes  possible  to 
foretell  to  a  certain  extent  the  action  of  a  synthetic  com- 
pound from  its  chemical  composition.  When  our  knowledge 
of  the  action  of  drugs  on  healthy  animals  is  applied  to 
remedy  known  pathological  conditions  (e.^.,  the  use  of 
astringents  to  stop  bleeding  by  their  action  in  contracting 
vessels  and  clotting  blood),  we  are  practising  rational  thera- 
peutics. 

No  hypothesis  can  be  formulated  which  will  satisfac- 
torily account  for  the  curative  action  of  all  medicines  in  all 
diseases  and  systems  of  medicine,  as  allopathy  and  homoeo- 
pathy founded  on  such  hypotheses  are  valueless. 

Absorption  of  Drugs. 

Drugs  are  absorbed  most  rapidly  in  solution  (especially 
in  alcohol)  and  when  the  circulation  is  active.  Absorption 
from  the  digestive  tract  is  poor  wTien  the  circulation  is  de- 
pressed or  in  congested  states  ;  also  from  the  subcutaneous 
tissues  in  similar  conditions,  more  particularly  in  oedema 
of  these  parts.  Absorption  from  the  stomach  and  bowels  of 
healthy  animals  is  chiefly  influenced  by  the  quantity  of  food 
in  them.  When  these  organs  are  empty,  absorption  is 
rapid ;  but  when  full,  it  is  slow.  For  this  reason  absorption 
is  markedly  tardy  and  imperfect  in  ruminants.  In  these 
animals  there  is  a  comparatively  impervious  skin-like 
mucous  membrane  and  lack  of  vascularity  in  the  first  three 
gastric  compartments;  while  a  large  amount  of  food  is 
always  to  be  found  in  the  .first  and  third  stomachs ;  all  of 


4  PRELIMINARY   CONSIDERATIONS 

which  tends  to  delay  absorption  and  lessen  the  action  of 
medicines  given  by  the  mouth. 

If  drugs  are  irritating  they  should  be  given  to  animals 
on  the  food,  or  after  feeding,  in  order  that  they  be  sufficiently 
diluted.  Some  remedies  require  hydrochloric  acid  for  their 
solution — as  iron — and  they  should  therefore  be  adminis- 
tered at  or  after  the  time  of  feeding,  because  hydrochloric 
acid  secretion  is  then  active. 

Elimination  of  Drugs. 

A  drug  is  as  much  outside  the  body  when  within  the 
digestive  tube — so  far  as  any  action  it  may  have  on  the  body 
(unless  an  irritant) — as  if  it  were  on  the  skin.  When  ab- 
sorbed, a  medicine  passes  into  the  blood  vessels  or  lymphat- 
ics and  thence  into  the  general  circulation.  That  portion 
which  enters  the  portal  circulation  reaches  the  liver  and 
may  be  destroyed  in  part  (some  alkaloids)  by  this  organ. 
After  entering  the  blood  the  drug  is  thought  to  form 
unknown  combinations  with  the  tissues  for  which  it 
has  an  affinity — thereby  exerting  its  remedial  effect — and 
is  decomposed  or  rarely  accumulates  in  the  body,  but  usually 
is  eliminated  either  unchanged  or  as  decomposition-pro- 
ducts in  the  breath,  or  by  the  excretions  or  secretions  of  the 
kidneys,  bowels,  liver,  sudoriparous,  salivary  and  mam- 
mary glands,  and  mucous  membranes.  The  urine  is  the 
most  frequent  channel  of  elimination  for  soluble  drugs. 
The  bowels  constitute  the  next  more  common  pathway  of 
elimination.  Volatile  drugs  (chloroform,  ether)  are  elimin- 
ated very  rapidly,  usually  in  the  breath.  If  a  drug  is 
eliminated  slowly  the  duration  of  its  action  is  correspondingly 
long,  and  vice  versa.  This  fact  will  guide  us  in  the  frequency 
of  administration  of  medicines,  since  if  a  drug  which  is 
tardily  eliminated  be  given  at  frequent  intervals  it  may  be 
absorbed  faster  than  it  is  excreted  and  so  accumulate  in  the 
body  and  cause  poisoning.  The  so-called  Cumulative  Action 
of  a  drug  refers  to  the  occurrence  of  a  sudden  and  violent 
effect  during  its  medicinal  administration.    This  may  be  due. 


ELIMIJ^ATION  OF   DRUGS  5 

(1)  to  delayed  followed  by  rapid  absorption  from  the  aliment- 
ary canal ;  or  (2)  to  slow — or  sudden  arrest  of — elimination. 
The  salts  of  lead,  mercury  and  arsenical  preparations  are 
eliminated  slowly.  Digitalis  and  strychnine  are  said  to  be 
especially  prone  to  produce  a  cumulative  action.  Strych- 
nine may,  however,  be  given  subcutaneously  in  gradually 
increasing  doses  without  the  likelihood  of  poisoning.  Digi- 
talis may  cause  a  cumulative  effect  in  being  slowly  oxidized 
in  the  body  or  in  leading  to  contraction  of  the  renal  vessels 
and  suppression  of  urine-elimination.  The  drugs  likely  to 
cause  a  cumulative  action  must  be  administered  infrequently, 
once,  twice,  or  thrice  daily ;  whereas  medicines  which  are 
rapidly  decomposed  and  eliminated  (alcohol,  nitrites,  etc.) 
may  be  given  at  very  frequent  intervals  if  desirable.  The 
term  excretion  is  often  used  synonymously  with  elimination, 
but,  strictly  speaking,  a  drug  is  not  eliminated  unless  it  has 
been  first  absorbed.  On  the  other  hand,  an  insoluble  drug 
passing  unabsorbed  through  the  alimentary  canal  is  said 
properly  to  be  excreted  in  the  faeces. 


CIRCUMSTANCES    MODIFYING    THE    ACTION 
OF  DRUGS. 


Mode  of  Administration. 

The  following  table  gives  the  various  methods  of  admin- 
istering drugs  in  order  of  their  rapidity  of  absorption, 
beginning  with  the  method  by  which  absorption  is  most 
rapid,  and  following  with  those  by  which  absorption  is  less 
and  finally  least  rapid. 

1.  By  injection  into  the  veins. 

2.  By  inhalation.     (Volatile  drugs.) 

3.  By  injection  into  subcjutaneous  tissues. 

4.  By  injection  into  the  trachea. 

5.  By  the  mouth. 

6.  By  the  rectum. 

7.  By  the  skin. 

1.  Injection  into  the  veins,  or  intravenous  injection 
(usually  into  the  jugular  vein),  is  now  rarely  practised,  since 
a  violent  action  is  induced  by  the  sudden  entrance  of  a  drug 
into  the  circulation,  and  phlebitis,  embolism  and  thrombosis 
may  result.  The  intravenous  use  of  hot  normal  salt  solution 
is  frequently  valuable  in  haemorrhage,  shock,  and  poisoning 
(see  p.  701). 

2.  Volatile  drugs  are  absorbed  with  great  rapidity  and 
effect  owing  to  the  enormous  vascular  surface  of  the  lungs 
in  contact  with  the  inhaled  vapor.  Ether,  chloroform, 
ammonia  and  amyl-nitrite  are  given  by  this  method.  Inhala- 
tion of  medicated  steam  and  sprays,  used  mainly  for  their 
local  action  on  the  respiratory  tract,  are  also  absorbed  to 
some  extent  by  the  bronchial  mucous  membrane  and  lungs. 

3.  Subcutaneous  or  hypodermatic  injection  is  suitable 


MODE   OF  ADMINISTRATION  7 

for  soluble,  non-irritating  drugs  of  small  bulk,  when  a  sure 
and  rapid  action  is  desired.  The  medicinal  solution  should 
be  free  from  solid  particles  and  microorganisms.  If  the 
solution  is  not  clean,  or  is  irritating,  abscess  may  occur. 
The  syringe  and  needle  must  also  be  absolutely  clean. 
Solutions  made  by  dropping  tablets  in  pure  drinking  water 
will  rarely  cause  abscess,  and  the  syringe  may  be  made 
aseptic  by  filling  it  with  alcohol,  and  wiping  the  needle  with 
the  same,  previous  to  their  employment.  Solutions  may  be 
preserved  for  hypodermatic  use  with  boric  acid  (1  per  cent.), 
but  soluble  tablets  are  more  convenient. 

In  practising  this  method  the  hair  should  be  removed 
from  the  seat  of  injection — preferably  the  thin  skin  under- 
laid by  connective  tissue  behind  the  elbow  or  on  the  abdo- 
men— and  the  part  washed;  then  a  loose  fold  of  skin  is 
picked  up  and  held  firmly  between  the  thumb  and  forefinger 
of  the  left  hand,  while  the  needle  is  thrust  under  the  skin, 
but  not  into  a  vein  or  muscle.  The  syringe  is  slowly  emptied 
and  the  needle  withdrawn,  keeping  slight  pressure  over  the 
point  of  injection  with  the  thumb  for  a  few  seconds.  The 
use  of  irritating  drugs — permissible  in  emergencies — as 
Fluid  Extract  of  Ergot,  Tincture  of  Digitalis,  Ether  and 
Ammonia,  is  less  apt  to  be  followed  by  abscess  if  injected 
deeply  into  the  muscular  substance,  but  this  method  causes 
more  pain  with  ordinary  injections.  To  avoid  getting  air 
in  the  veins,  all  the  air  is  removed  from  the  syringe  before 
using,  by  holding  it,  needle  upwards,  and  pushing  in  the 
plunger  till  a  few  drops  of  the  solution  are  forced  out  of  the 
needle.  The  danger  of  introducing  air  into  the  blood  stream 
is  greatly  exaggerated,  however,  as  the  writer  has  proved  by 
forcing  vast  quantities  of  air  into  the  jugular  vein  of  a  horse 
without  producing  any  untoward  symptoms.  The  proper 
quantity  of  a  solution  for  subcutaneous  use  is  5-30  minims 
for  dogs ;  1-2  drachms  for  horses,  although  large  amounts 
of  salt  solution  may  be  injected  into  the  subcutaneous  tissue 
or  muscles  (hypodermoclysis)  with  great  benefit  in  haemor- 
rhage, etc.     (See  p. 


8  CIttCUMSTANCES   MODIFYING   THE  ACTION   OF   DRUGS 

The  ininimnm  doses  of  drugs  should  be  employed  by 
the  subcutaneous  method. 

INDICATIONS  FOR  SUBCUTANEOUS  INJECTION. 

(a)  To  secure  a  rapid  action,  as  in  relieving  intense 
pain  or  motor  excitement ;  and  to  support,  a  failing 
heart,  respiration  and  vascular  tone  in  severe  operations, 
anaesthesia,  or  other  poisoning. 

(b)  When  administration  of  drugs  by  the  mouth  is 
inadvisable  or  impossible,  as  in  unconsciousness,  dys- 
phagia, convulsions  or  vomiting. 

(c)  When  a  local  as  well  as  general  action  is  benefi- 
cial ;  e.g.,  the  use  of  strychnine  iA  roaring  and  other 
local  paralyses ;  atropine  in  local  muscular  spasms ; 
veratrine  in  muscular  rheumatism. 

4.  Intratracheal  injection  is  a  strictly  veterinary  pro- 
cedure. The  skin  is  incised  aseptically  with  a  sharp  scalpel 
midway  in  the  neck,  and  a  stout  needle  (attached  to  a  syringe) 
is  thrust  between  the  rings  into  the  trachea.  Larger  quan- 
tities [H.(3i.-ii.)  (30.60.)]  and  more  irritating  drugs  can  be 
given  in  this  way  than  by  the  subcutaneous  method,  and 
absorption  is  about  as  rapid ;  the  dose  is  the  same.  Some- 
times this  method  is  taken  advantage  .of  to  kill  parasites 
(S.  fiiaria  and  micrurus)  infesting  the  trachea  and  bronchial 
tubes,  and  to  influence  the  mucous  membranes  of  the  larynx 
and  trachea  in  inflammatory  conditions. 

5.  Drugs  are  icsually  given  by  the  mouth  and  are  absorbed 
from  the  stomach  and  intestines.  Many  non-irritating  and 
not  unpleasant  drugs  are  taken  voluntarily  in  the  food, 
gruel,  milk  or  drinking  water  by  animals.  Cats  and  dogs 
will  often  swallow  medicine  enclosed  in  a  piece  of  meat, 
Absorption  is  more  tardy  than  by  the  subcutaneous  method, 
more  rapid  when  given  in  solution  into  an  empty  stomach ; 
slower  when  administered  in  powder,  pill  or  ball,  and  on  a 
full  stomach.  Some  drugs  are  probably  absorbed  from  the 
stomach,  only  to  be  destroyed  in  part  by  the  liver,  or  elimi- 


RECTAL  INJECTIONS   OF  MEDICINES  9 

nated  by  the  bile,  and  do  not  enter  the  general  circulation 
at  all. 

When  drugs  are  administered  for  their  local  action 
on  the  stomach,  in  catarrh  or  ulcer,  they  should  be  given 
half  hour  to  an  hour  before  feeding;  if  given  for  their  action 
in  or  on  the  intestines,  they  should  be  administered  two  or 
three  hours  after  meals. 

6.  Rectal  injections  of  medicines  (enemata  or  clysters)  are  a 
practised  when  the  use  of  drugs  by  the  mouth  is  inadvis- 
able or  impossible,  as  in  unconsciousness,  dysphagia,  con- 
vulsions ;  also  to  destroy  parasites  (oxyurides)  in  the  rectum, 

to  influence  an  inflamed  or  ulcerated  rectal  mucous  mem- 
brane, and  to  remove  intestinal  contents  (oil  and  glycerin). 

The  dose  of  drugs  by  this  method  is  generally  twice 
that  by  the  mouth,  and  absorption  is  slower  arid  more  im- 
perfect. The  drug  should  be  non-irritating,  soluble,  and  not 
too  bulky,  since  a  small  amount  is  necessary  (  3  i.-  3  i.  dogs  ; 
5  ii.-  5  viii«  horses);  to  avoid  tenesmus  and  expulsion.  Warm 
starch  solution  (made  by  boiling)  with  a  little  laudanum  is 
a  good  vehicle  for  medicinal  enemata,  and  retention  of  ene- 
mata is  facilated  by  pressure  on  the  anus  with  a  towel  for 
some  minutes  after  the  injection  is  given. 

Solids  are  sometimes  employed  by  rectum  in  suppos- 
itories.    For  general  uses  of  enemata,  see  p.  30. 

7.  Drugs  are  absorbed  very  slightly  by  the  skin,  and  then 
only  when  rubbed  very  vigorously  into  the  epidermis  (in- 
unction) with  lanolin,  fat  or  oil  of  some  kind.  Mercury  and 
iodine  are  most  commonly  employed  for  absorption,  but 
drugs  are  usually  applied  externally  for  their  local  action 
only  and  not  to  influence  the  general  system  through  the 
blood. 

Dosage. 
The  study  of  dosage  is  known  as  Posology.  The  action 
of  drugs  is  altered  both  in  degree  and  kind  by  the  dose. 
Thus,  increasing  the  dose  would  naturally  lead  to  an  in- 
crease in  the  intensity  of  a  drug's  action,  but  it  frequently 
changes  the  entire  character  of  the  action  as  well. 


10  CIRCUMSTANCES   MODIFYING  THE  ACTION   OF  DRUGS 

Drugs,  as  opium  and  alcohol,  acting  especially  on  the 
nervous  system,  often  excite  in  therapeutic  doses,  but  de- 
press and  paralyze  in  toxic  doses.  Drugs,  as  digitalis^ 
stimulating  the  heart  in  medicinal  doses,  usually  depress 
and  paralyze  the  organ  in  poisonous  doses.  Many  drugs 
promoting  urinary  secretion,  in  ordinary  doses,  cause  inflam- 
mation and  urinary  suppression  in  large  doses.  The  best 
way  to  determine  the  dose  of  a  drug  is  to  estimate  the 
amount  required  for  each  pound  of  live  weight.  This  only 
applies  to  the  samespeciesand  to  animals  of  ordinary  build. 
Fat  is  a  comparatively  inert  tissue  as  far  as  the  action  of 
drugs  is  concerned.  In  the  case  of  young  animals,  and 
of  those  either  above  or  under  the  ordinary  size  of  the 
adult  of  any  species,  the  dose  should  be  proportioned — ac- 
cording to  weight — to  the  average  dose  for  the  adult  animal 
of  that  species.  Thus,  if  the  average  weight  of  a  horse  i» 
1000  pounds,  the  dose  of  any  drug  for  a  colt  weighing 
500  pounds  would  be  half  the  usual  dose  for  adult  horses. 
In  a  general  way  the  dose  for  all  animals  from  birth  to  a 
few  weeks  old,  is  one-twentieth  of  that  suitable  for  the 
mature  animal  of  the  same  species ;  for  yearlings,  about  one- 
third  of  the  adult  dose.  The  dose  recommended  for  dogs 
is  commonly  the  same  as  that  given  to  man,  but  this  rule 
does  not  apply  in  the  case  of  some  powerful  drugs  (strych- 
nine), where  the  dose  should  be  adjusted  to  the  weight,  i.e., 
so  much  per  pound,  live  weight. 

It  is  impossible  to  calculate  the  dose  for  all  domestic 
animals  as  based  on  that  for  animals  of  one  species,  be- 
cause the  differences  in  anatomy  and  physiology  modify  the 
actions  of  drugs  in  degree  and  kind,  but  the  dose  for  sheep 
is  about  one-fourth  of  that  for  the  laiger  ruminants. 

The  repetition  of  a  dose  is  determined  to  a  consider- 
able extent  by  the  duration  and  rapidity  of  a  drug's  action. 
Agents  used  for  their  immediate  effect,  as  those  relieving 
pain  and  stimulating  the  circulation  and  respiration,  are 
repeated  frequently  till  the  desired  effect  is  attained. 
Medicines  improving  the  condition  of  the  digestion,   blood 


ANATOMY  AND  PHYSIOLOGY  11 

and  nutrition,  as  tonics  of  various  kinds,  require  time  for 
the  accomplishment  of  their  mission,  and  are  usually  given 
two  or  three  times  daily  for  a  period  of  some  weeks. 

Anatomy  and  Physiology. 

Certain  differences  in  the  action  of  medicines  may  be 
observed  as  occuring  in  the  various  species  of  animals,  and 
in  animals  as  contrasted  in  this  respect  with  man. 

ACTION  OF  DRUGS  ON  ANIMALS  AS  COMPARED  WITH  THAT  ^  MAN. 

From  a  comparative  standpoint  the  action  of  drugs  on 
the  nervous  system  of  animals  differs  from  that  on  man. 
This  follows  according  to  the  "law  of  dissolution,"  which 
teaches  that  the  more  highly  developed  a  part  of  the  ner- 
vous system  is  in  the  evolutionary  scale,  the  more  sensitive 
is  it  to  the  influence  of  drugs.  Since  the  cerebrum  of  man 
is  relatively  larger  and  more  highly  developed,  in  propor- 
tion to  his  weight,  than  is  the  case  in  animals,  and  since  the 
spinal  cord  is  larger  and  more  highly  developed  in  pro- 
portion to  the  brain  in  animals,  it  happens  that  drugs 
impressing  the  nervous  system  exert  less  effect  on  the  brain, 
and  more  on  the  spinal  cord,  of  animals  than  they  do  in  man. 

Thus  opium  is  more  powerful  in  its  influence  on  the 
brain  of  man,  and  strychnin  is  more  potent  in  its  action  on 
the  spinal  cord  of  animals.  Drugs  are  not  absorbed  so 
rapidly  or  perfectly  in  the  enormous  digestive  apparatus  of 
ruminants  as  in  man;  neither  do  emetics  act  in  these  animals, 
nor  in  horses;  while  in  none  of  the  lower  animals  are  agents 
causing  sweating  so  efficient  as  in  man. 

ACTION  OF  DRUGS  ON  HORSES  AS  COMPARED  WITH  THAT  ON  OTHER 

ANIMALS. 

Differences  exist  relative  to  the  action  of  drugs  on  the 
horse,  as  compared  with  other  animals,  chiefly  in  respect 
to  the  digestive  apparatus.  Emetics  do  not  act  on  the  horse, 
as  this  animal  does  not  vomit  unless  the  stomach  is  greatly 
distended  with  gas,  which  causes  dilatation  of  the  cardiac 


12  CIRCUMSTANCES  MODIFYING  THE  ACTION   OF  DRUGS 

Outlet.  Otherwise  the  stomach  is  too  small  to  be  success- 
fully compressed  by  the  abdominal  walls,  and  the  great 
length  of  the  oesophagus  between  the  stomach  and  dia- 
phragm, together  with  the  horseshoe-like  band  of  fibres  at 
its  cardiac  extremity,  prevent  the  regurgitation  of  food.  The 
intestines  of  the  horse,  on  the  other  hand,  are  as  volum- 
inous as  the  stomach  is  small,  and  therefore  are  powerfully 
influenced  by  irritants  (as  purgatives),  although  the  action 
of  cathartics  is  slow.  The  bowels  of  horses  excrete  vastly 
more  of  the  fluid  ingested  than  is  the  case  in  man  or  dogs 
— whose  kidneys  chiefly  assume  this  function — and  these 
latter  organs  are  said  to  eliminate  about  15  per  cent,  of  the 
fluid  ingesta  in  the  former  animals,  as  against  50  per  cent, 
in  man  and  dogs. 

ACTION  OF  DRUGS  ON  RUMINANTS  AS    COMPARED  WITH  THAT  ON 
OTHER   ANIMALS. 

The  capacious  four-fold  stomach  of  ruminants  always 
contains  large  amounts  of  food  in  the  rumen  and  abomasm, 
while  the  impervious,  poorly  vascular  and  skin-like  gastric 
mucous  membrane  renders  absorption  feeble  and  imperfect 
and  enforces  a  comparatively  larger  dosage  than  is  proper 
for  horses  of  greater  weight.  Ruminants  are  also  generally 
insusceptible  to  emetics.  The  skin  and  kidneys  of  rumi- 
nants are  still  less  active  than  is  the  case  in  horses. 

ACTION  OF  DRUGS  ON  DOGS   AND  PIGS  AS  COMPARED  WITH  THAT  ON 
OTHER  ANIMALS. 

The  action  of  medicine  on  dogs  and  pigs  is  similar  in 
kind  to  that  observed  in  man,  but  the  former  animals  are  less 
sensitive  to  drugs  as  a  rule,  since  the  dose  suitable  for  a 
man  weighing  150  pounds  is  appropriate  for  a  dog  of  40 
pounds  weight.  As  exceptions  to  this  rule,  we  find  that  dogs 
will  not  bear  the  human  dose  of  calomel,  oil  of  turpentine, 
or  strychnine.  In  fact,  the  ordinary  tonic  dose  of  strych- 
nine (gr.  gip)  for  man  will  throw  a  medium-sized  dog  into 
convulsions,  and  may  kill   a   small  animal,  notwithstand- 


TIME  OF  ADMINISTKATION  13 

ing  that  this  amount  is  recommended  as  a  suitable   canine 
dose  in  veterinary  text  books. 

Contrariwise,  the  dog  is  comparatively  insensitive  to 
many  drugs  powerfully  influencing  man, — notably  aloes, 
colocyuth  and  rhubarb.  Most  cathartics  act  more  quickly 
on  dogs  than  is  the  case  with  the  other  domestic  animals, 
but  saline  purgatives  are  less  appropriate  in  often  causing 
vomiting,  and  because  of  their  bulk. 

Time  of  Administration. 

This  matter  has  been  alluded  to  in  speaking  of  the 
absorption  of  drugs.  Mediciues  readily  undergoing  decom- 
position in  the  presence  of  other  substances,  as  iodine  and 
hydriodic  acid,  should  be  given  on  an  empty  stomach  ;  and 
likewise  all  drugs,  when  a  speedy  action  is  desired.  Irrit- 
ants should  be  administered  on  a  full  stomach;  while  agents 
requiring  hydrochloric  acid  for  their  solution — as  iron — 
must  be  exhibited  on  the  food  or  immediately  after  the 
time  of  feeding. 

Habit. — This  circumstance  does  not  have  the  same  import- 
ance in  veterinary  medicine  which  it  possesses  in  human 
practice,  since  we  control  drug  habits  in  animals.  Animals 
usually  become  less  susceptible  to  the  action  of  drugs 
on  their  repetition,  e.g.,  opium  and  cathartics.  This  rule 
does  not  hold  in  the  case  of  drugs  having  a  cumulative 
action,  nor  in  the  repeated  use  of  irritants  on  the  skin,  for 
then  their  action  is  strongly  intensified. 

Disease. — The  action  of  drugs  is  profoundly  influenced 
by  disease.  It  is  only  possible  to  enumerate  a  few  exam- 
ples. Pain  is  almost  an  antidote  to  opium,  and  large  re- 
peated doses  of  the  drug,  previously  innocuous,  may,  on  the 
sudden  cessation  of  pain,  induce  poisoning.  Opium  is  also 
borne  in  enormous  doses  in  peritonitis.  Inflammation  and 
congestion  of  the  digestive  organs  hinders  the  absorption  of 
all  medicines.  A  congested  condition  of  the  alimentary 
canal,  and  even  of  the  respiratory  tract  in  horses,  contra- 
indicate    the    use  of  strong  purgatives  in    these    animals, 


14  CIRCUMSTANCES  MODIFYING  THE  ACTION   OF  DRUGS 

since  superpurgation  may  occur.  A  high  temperature  alters 
the  action  of  many  drugs. 

Opium  is  not  so  efficient  as  an  analgesic  in  fevers,  while 
antipyretics  will  not  lower  the  temperature  in  health. 
Stimulants  are  not  nearly  so  potent  in  depressed  bodily 
conditions,  and  counter-irritants  will  not  produce  their 
characteristic  actions  on  the  skin  when  the  circulatory 
functions  are  at  a  low  ebb. 

Idiosyncrasy. — Individual  susceptibility  to  drugs  is 
infrequent,  but  unfortunately  cannot  be  anticipated.  The 
writer  has  seen  simple  zinc  oxide  (free  from  adulteration  or 
impurities)  cause  a  frenzy  of  irritation  when  rubbed  on  a 
dog's  skin,  and  a  small  dose  of  tartar  emetic  cause  violent 
vomiting  in  a  cow.  Some  animals  are  very  susceptible  to 
counter-irritants.  Well-bred  animals  are  commonly  more 
responsive  to  drugs  than  others. 


GENERAL  ACTIONS  OP  DRUGS. 


Drugs  Acting  on  the  Digestive  Organs. 

Sialogogues  are  agents  increasing  the  secretion  of  saliva. 
Antisialogogues  are  agents  diminishing  salivary  secretion. 
Among  the  sources  oi  saliva — the  parotid,  sublingual  and 
submaxillary  glands — the  latter  have  received  most  study. 
The  chorda  tympani,  with  its  centre  in  the  medulla,  is  one  of 
the  two  nerves  supplying  the  submaxillary  gland.  It  con- 
tains two  sets  of  fibres,  the  secretory  and .  vasodilator. 
Hence  stimulation  of  this  nerve,  or  its  centre,  whether  im- 
mediately or  reflexly,  leads,  by  means  of  its  vasodilator 
fibres,  to  dilatation  of  the  blood  vessels  and  enhanced  vascu- 
larity of  the  gland,  and  so  indirectly  to  greater  secretion ; 
while,  through  excitation  of  the  secretory  fibres,  the  proto- 
plasm of  the  glandular  cells  is  influenced  and  secretion 
directly  increased. 

Reflexly  the  gland  is  stimulated  by  drugs  exciting  the 
peripheral  terminations  of  the  gustatory  (lingual  branch  of 
the  fifth  nerve)  and  glossopharangeal  nerves  in  the  mouth ; 
the  vagus  endings  in  the  stomach;  by  agencies  sending 
pleasurable  impressions  to  the  brain  through  the  medium  of 
the  eyes  or  nose ;  or  by  stimulation  of  other  sensory  nerves. 
The  submaxillary  gland  is  also  supplied  by  a  branch  of  the 
cervical  sympathetic  accompanying  the  submaxillary  arter- 
ies. Stimulation  of  this  nerve,  or  its  centre,  causes  vascular 
constriction  in  the  gland  and  inhibition  of  secretion. 

Sialogogues  are  often  classed  under  three  heads.  1st, 
Specific  sialogogiieSj  acting  directly  on  the  mechanism  con- 
cerned with  secretion,  ^.e.,  the  gland  cells,  or  nervous  appara- 
tus. Pilocarpine  is  the  best  example  of  the  specific  class. 
It  stimulates  the  gland  cell  or  peripheral  nerve  endings. 
2nd,  Be/lex  sialogogues,  exciting  sensory  nerve   terminations 

15 


16  GENERAL  ACTION   OF  DRUGS 

and  indirectly  or  reflexly  stimulating  the  nervous  mechan- 
ism controlling  secretion.  As  examples  of  this  class,  may  be 
mentioned  alkalies,  acids,  emetics,  and  other  agents  stimu- 
lating the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth  and  stomach. 
3rd,  Mixed  sialogogves,  acting  both  specifically  and  reflexly. 
Physostigmine,  nicotine  or  tobacco  and  mercury  prepara- 
tions may  be  included  in  this  category. 

Antisialogogiies. — These  drugs  may  act  in  various  ways  to 
lessen  salivary  secretion,  but  atropine  is  most  notable  in  this 
regard.  It  acts  by  depressing  the  peripheral  endings  of  the 
secretory  nerves. 

Uses. — Sialogogues  are  not  of  much  therapeutic  value. 
Some  are  added  to  the  drinking  water  given  to  animals  suf- 
fering from  fever,  to  relieve  dryness  of  the  mouth  and  thirst. 
They  are  then  called  refrigerants;  as,  for  example,  potas- 
sium nitrate,  diluted  phosphoric  and  other  acids.  The 
reflex  sialogogues  are  sometimes  employed  to  stimulate  the 
mucous  membrane  of  the  pharynx  in  sore  throat  and  relaxed 
conditions ;  as,  for  example,  potassium  chlorate  in  electuary 
for  horses. 

Excessive  salivation  produced  by  mercury  salts  or  pilo- 
carpine is  relieved  by  an  antisialogogue,  i.e.,  atropine. 

Stomachics  are  drugs  which,  in  therapeutic  doses,  mildly 
stimulate  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth  and  stomach, 
thereby  increasing  the  secretions  and  vascularity  of  these 
parts,  the  appetite,  and,  in  a  less  degree,  gastric  peristalsis. 
These  agents  also  influence  the  intestines,  but  this  eff'ect  will 
be  considered  under  carminatives. 

Stomachics  may  be  divided  into  bitters,  aromatics  (drugs 
containing  a  volatile  oil  and  often  very  pungent),  and  aro- 
matic bitters  (drugs  containing  a  volatile  oil  and  a  bit- 
ter principle).  While  both  the  bitters  and  aromatics  en- 
hance the  appetite,  the  action  of  the  latter  is  more  powerful 
and  fleeting.  Very  large  doses  of  stomachics  are  distinctly 
irritating,  and  cause  anorexia,  nausea,  and  vomiting  in 
animals  capable  of  the  act. 


DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  DIGESTIVE  ORGANS  17 


STOMACHICS. 

BITTERS. 

AROMATICS. 

Gentian 

Coriander 

Calumba 

Capsicum 

Quassia 

Pepper 

Hydrastis 

Ginger 

Taraxacum 

Cardamon 

-      Fennel 

Fenugreek 

Anise 

AROMATIC  BITTERS. 

Calamus 

(yascariila 

Mustard 

Chamomile 

Spearmint 

Serpentaria 

Peppermint    . 

Uses. — Stomachics — particularly  bitters — are  service- 
able in  improving  the  appetite  and  gastric  digestion  in  atonic 
indigestion,  and  in  enfeebled  states  of  the  digestive  organs 
occurring  in  the  course  of  chronic  diseases  or  during  conva- 
lescence from  acute  disorders.  The  aromatics  are  more 
frequently  employed  for  their  action  on  the  intestines,  when 
they  are  called  carminatives.  Bitters  are  contra-indicated 
in  irritable  or  inflamed  conditions  of  the  alimentary  tract. 

Antacids  are  drugs  which  are  used  to  counteract  acidity 
in  the  stomach  and  bowels  resulting  from  indigestion  and 
fermentation,  or  from  excessive  secretion  of  gastric  juice. 
Some  (not  ammonia  compounds)  are  also  occasionally  em- 
ployed to  alkalize  the  blood  and  urine. 

It  has  been  commonly  taught  that  if  antacids  are  given 
immediately  before  or  at  the  time  of  eating,  they  increase 
the  flow  of  acid  gastric  juice,  although  diminishing  the 
secretion  of  alkaline  saliva.  They  are  thus  said  to  improve 
gastric  digestion,  especially  when  combined  with  bitters. 

Recent  experiments  seem  to  show  that  the  foregoing 
statement  is  fallacious  and  that  not  only  do  antacids  fail  to 
stimulate  gastric  secretion,  but  that  hydrochloric  acid  is  the 
best  agent  for  this  purpose. 

If  administered  several  hours  after  eating,  antacids 
counteract  acidity  due  to  fermentation  and  relieve  pain 
caused  by  this  condition.     Since  fermentation  is  frequently 


18  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

the  cause  of  tympanites,  the  antacids  are  conjoined  to  advan- 
tage with  carminatives  (sodium  bicarbonate  and  ginger). 
The  alkaline  carbonates  allay  pain  by  means  of  the  carbonic 
dioxide  set  free  in  their  decomposition  in  the  digestive  tract, 
and  the  antacids  are  also  beneficial  in  dissolving  an  exces- 
sive secretion  of  mucus  in  catarrhal  conditions  of  the  alimen- 
tary canal. 

The  antacids  are  synonymous  with  alkalies,  with  the 
exception  of  the  neutral  vegetable  salts — acetates,  citrates 
and  tartrates — of  potassium  and  sodium,  which  are  some- 
times classed  under  this  head.  These  do  not  alkalize  the 
contents  of  the  stomach,  but  nevertheless  are  broken  up  in 
the  body  and  transformed  into  carbonates  and  thus  render 
the  urine  more  alkaline  during  their  elimination.  Among 
those  included  in  the  following  list  the  sodium  compounds 
are  much  less  active  in  alkalizing  the  urine  than  the  potas- 
sium salts.  Sodium  bicarbonate  is  in  most  fieqnent  use  in 
digestive  disorders,  but  ammonium  carbonate  is  particularly 
appropriate  in  flatulence,  because  it  possesses  the  added 
power  of  stimulating  peristaltic  action  and  expelling  flatus. 

ANTACIDS. 

Sodium  carbonate  Ammonium  carbonate 

Sodium  bicarbonate  Magnesia 

Potassium  carbonate  Magnesium  carbonate 

Potassium  bicarbonate  Calcium  carbonate  (chalk) 

Solution  of  potash  Solution  of  lime  (lime  water) 

Ammonia 

Acids. — The  mineral  acids — together  with  stomachics — 
increase  the  vascularity  and  movements  of  the  stomach. 
The  natural  hydrochloric  acid  of  the  gastric  juice  assists  in 
the  conversion  of  proteids  (in  the  food)  into  peptones,  and 
is,  therefore,  the  acid  of  most  use  in  relation  to  stomach 
digestion.  It  should  be  given  one-half  to  two  hours  after 
feeding  animals,  and  it  not  only  supplies  any  abnormal  defi- 
ciency of  the  natural  acid  secretion,  but  also  stimulates  the 
formation  of  pepsin  from  pepsinogen,  and  the  normal  pro- 
duction of  this  acid  in  the  stomach. 


DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  DIGESTIVE  ORGANS  19 

Carminatives  include  the  same  drugs  which  were  men- 
tioned as  stomachics,  but  the  term  as  generally  employed 
refers  to  their  effect  in  exciting  peristaltic  action,  and  so 
expelling  gas  from  the  stomach  and  bowels.  The  aromatics 
are  considerably  more  valuable  for  this  purpose  than  the 
bitters.  Carminatives  also- prevent  griping  caused  by  many 
cathartics,  aid  digestion,  and  disguise  the  taste  of  disagree- 
able drugs.  Capsicum  and  ginger  are  most  frequently  pre- 
scribed in  Veterinary  practice. 

Digestives. — Pepsin  is  occasionally  of  benefit  in  the 
treatment  of  dogs  and  young  animals  in  cases  of  enfeebled 
gastric  digestion  resulting  from  acute  diseases  or  other  gen- 
eral causes.  It  should  be  administered  directly  after  eating, 
and  is  prescribed  to  advantage  with  hydrochloric  acid.  As 
a  general  proposition  it  is  inadvisable  to  give  agents  which 
merely  substitute  an  artificial  for  the  natural  digestion,  except 
as  a  temporary  expedient.  A  wiser  course  consists  in  re- 
moving the  cause  of  indigestion  by  proper  feeding  or  by 
enforcing  abstinence  from  food,  and  in  the  use  of  remedies 
calculated  to  strengthen  the  natural  digestive  functions. 

Pancreatin  may  be  given  during,  or  immediately  after, 
eating,  and  will  assist  gastric  digestion  for  some  time  before 
suflacient  acid  is  secreted  to  destroy  it.  In  fact,  some  authors 
(Hare)  insist  that  this  substance  is  more  valuable  in  any 
case  than  pepsin  in  aiding  stomach  digestion,  although  pan- 
creatin is  more  commonly  given,  several  hours  after  eating, 
to  promote  intestinal  digestion.  Papain  is  another  agent 
which  is  employed  as  an  artificial  digestive  of  vegetable 
origin.     Its  value  is  not  yet  definitely  determined. 

Antiseptics. — These  agents  are  sometimes  used  to  pre- 
vent or  arrest  fermentation  of  food  in  the  stomach  and 
bowels.  Since  fermentation  is  primarily  due  to  indigestion, 
it  is  essential  to  remove  the  cause  by  diet  and  other  rational 
means  rather  than  to  combat  the  effects  of  indigestion. 
Large  doses  of  antiseptics  hinder  the  digestive  processes 
and  may  endanger  the  life  of  the  patient,  so  that  it  is  difficult 
to  attain  perfect  antisepsis  in  the  alimentary  canal. 


20  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

Among  the  drugs  more  commonly  employed  for  their 
antiseptic  action  on  the  contents  of  the  digestive  tract  may 
be  mentioned  : 

Carbolic  acid  Bismuth  salicylate 

Creosote  Bismuth  subgallate 

Creolin  Sodium  sulphite,  bisulphite  and 

Naphthol  hyposulphite  . 

Naphthalin  Hydrogen  dioxide 

Bismuth  subnitrate 

Emetics  are  drugs  which  cause  vomiting.  The  act  of 
vomiting  proceeds  from  irritation  of  the  vomiting  centre  in 
the  medulla,  which  is  in  close  proximity  to  the  respiratory 
centre.  This  centre  is  either  acted  upon  directly  by  drugs 
circulating  in  the  blood,  or  reflexly  by  agents  stimulating 
sensory  nerves  in  various  parts  of  the  body.  Thus,  irritation 
of  the  sensory  nerve-endings  of  the  mouth,  throat,  gullet, 
lungs,  heart,  stomach,  bowels,  biliary  passages,  peritoneum, 
uterus  and  kidneys,  may  produce  vomition.  Vomiting  is 
occasioned  by  simultaneous  contraction  of  the  abdominal 
walls  and  the  diaphragm.  In  this  process  the  stomach  is 
squeezed  between  the  abdominal  walls  and  diaphragm,  and 
contraction  of  the  longitudinal  fibres,  radiating  from  the 
lower  end  of  the  gullet,  draws  the  stomach  towards  the 
diaphragm  and  so  pulls  open  the  cardiac  orifice,  while  the 
pylorus  is  firmly  contracted  and  closed.  Some  peculiarities 
must  be  noted  in  reference  to  vomition  in  the  domestic  ani- 
mals. Dogs,  pigs  and  cats  vomit  readily  and  may  be  placed 
in  the  same  category  as  man  in  this  respect.  Horses  rarely 
vomit  and  are  not  easily  nauseated  by  emetics.  Vomiting 
is  prevented  in  these  animals  by  :  1.  The  small  size  of  the 
stonaach,  which  is  not  readily  compressed  between  the  ab- 
dominal walls  and  diaphragm.  2.  The  length  of  the  gullet 
between  the  stomach  and  diaphragm,  which  forms  a  valve- 
like obstruction  when  the  tube  is  shortened  by  contraction 
of  the  longitudinal  fibres  at  its  lower  extremity  in  attempts 
at  vomition.  3.  A-  horse-shoe-like  band  of  fibres  at  the  car- 
diac orifice,  which  hinders  dilatation  of  this  opening.    Eumi-* 


DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  DIGESTIVE  ORGANS  21 

Hants  are  likewise  comparatively  insusceptible  to  emetics 
because  of  the  large  size  of  their  digestive  apparatus,  which 
is  not  easily  compressed  between  the  parietes  and  diaphragm. 
Therefore  the  vomiting  centre  remains  probably  in  a  state  of 
non-development  in  the  horse  and  ruminant,  by  reason  of 
non-use. 

Cattle  and  horses  do,  however,  occasionally  vomit.  Cat- 
tle at  sea  frequently  suffer  from  mal  de  mer^  and  the  writer 
has  observed  actual  vomition  in  them  following  the  use  of 
tartar  emetic.  Horses  may  vomit  when  the  stomach  is 
greatly  distended  with  gas. 

Emetics  may  be  classed  as :  1.  Specific^  acting  on  the 
vomiting  centre  through  the  blood.  2.  Locals  by  stimula- 
tion of  the  sensory  nerve-endings  in  the  mouth,  throat,  gullet 
and  stomach.     3.  Mixed^  those  acting  in  both  ways. 

It  is  impossible,  in  our  present  state  of  knowledge,  to 
apply  this  classification  accurately  to  individual  drugs,  but 
the  following  statements  may  be  made :  If  an  emetic  is  in- 
jected into  the  blood  and  vomiting  instantly  occurs,  the  drug 
has  probably  acted  upon  the  vomiting  centre  ;  if  some  time 
elapses  before  the  occurrence  of  vomition,  it  is  probable  that 
the  drug  has  acted  upon  the  stomach  during  its  elimination 
by  that  organ.  Contrariwise,  if,  after  the  ingestion  of  an 
emetic,  a  considerable  period  intervenes  before  vomiting 
comes  on,  it  is  probable  that  the  agent  has  acted  on  the 
vomiting  centre. 

Again,  if  a  larger  quantity  of  a  drug  is  required  when 
injected  into  the  blood  than  when  swallowed,  to  cause 
emesis,  it  is  fair  to  suppose  that  the  agent  acts  on  the 
stomach  directly  or  during  its  elimination.  Finally,  if  an 
emetic  is  thrown  into  the  blood  after  the  removal  of  the 
stomach  and  substitution  of  a  bladder  in  its  place,  and  vom- 
iting does  not  occur  (Majendie's  experiment  with  tartar 
emetic),  it  shows  that  the  agent  only  acts  on  the  stomach  ; 
but  if  vomiting  does  occur,  it  indicates  that  the  agent  acts 
on  the  vomiting  centre  and  causes  emesis  by  contraction  of 
the  parietes  and  diaphragm,  with  this  reservation,  that  the 


22  GENERAL  ACTIONS   OF  DEUGS 

drug  may  have  been  eliminated  by  the  oesophagus  and  in- 
testines and  have  reflexly  stimulated  the  vomiting  centre 
through  the  medium  of  these  parts.  These  remarks  dem- 
onstrate the  complexity  of  the  subject. 


EMETICS. 

Specific 

Local 

Mixed 

Apomorpbine 

Mustard 

Tartar  Emetic 

Senega 

Salt 

Ipecac 

Squills 

Alum 

Zinc  Sulphate 

Lukewarm  water 

Ammonium  Carbonate 

Copper  Sulphate 

Apomorphine  is  the  only  emetic  given  under  the  skin. 
It  also  acts  well  by  the  mouth,  but  causes  more  nausea  and 
allied  effects  than  drugs  acting  locally. 

Mustard  and  salt,  1  teaspoonful  each,  in  a  cup  of  luke- 
warm water,  form  a  convenient  emetic  for  dogs.  Ipecac  is 
useful  in  respiratory  diseases  as  an  expectorant  as  well  as 
emetic,  and  zinc  sulphate  is  a  prompt  emetic  in  poisoning. 
The  other  emetics  are  practically  unimportant. 

Emetics  cause,  beside  vomition,  several  other  pheno- 
mena which  are  sometimes  utilized  therapeutically.  Among 
these  may  be  mentioned, — nausea,  salivation,  violent  respi- 
ratory efforts,  compression  of  the  abdominal  glands  and 
ducts  and  extrusion  of  their  contents,  passive  congestion  of 
the  head,  chest  and  peripheral  parts  by  reason  of  compres- 
sion of  the  abdominal  veins.  Increased  secretion  of  the 
mucous  membranes  of  the  nose,  eyes,  stomach,  gullet  and 
bronchial  tubes  follow  passive  congestion.  Muscular  relax- 
ation always  accompanies  nausea,  and  sweating  ensues  from 
relaxation  of  the  skin  and  leaking  out  of  the  secretion.  The 
flow  of  bile  is  increased  on  account  of  pressure  on  the  liver 
and  gall-bladder,  while  the  secretion  is  also  augmented. 

The  pulse  and  respiration  are  more  frequent  during 
emesis,  but  are  diminished  in  force  and  frequency  after- 
wards. All  these  phenomena  are  more  apparent  after  the 
use  of  specific  emetics. 

Uses. — These  apply  particularly  to  dogs. 

1.  To  empty  the  stomach  in  case  of  poisoning,  over- 


DRUGS  ACTING   ON  THE   DIGESTIVE   ORGANS 


23 


loading   of  the  organ,  and   indigestion  with  convulsions  in 
young  animals  :— Mustard,  salt  or  zinc  sulphate. 

2.  To  expel  foreign  bodies  from  the  fauces  and  gullet 
(apomorphine  subcutaneously) ;  or,  by  the  forcible  expira- 
tion attending  vomition,  to  expel  excessive  secretion  or  exu- 
dation from  the  air  passages  in  laryngitis  or  bronchitis  : — 
Ipecac. 

3.  To  empty  the  gall-bladder  in  catarrhal  jaundice  and 
biliousness  and  to  expel  bile  from  the  stomach. 

4.  To  lower  blood  pressure  and  increase  secretion  in 
the  first  stage  of  bronchitis  : — Ipecac. 

5.  To  stop  vomiting : — Ipecac  in  minute  doses. 
Contra-indications. — Pregnancy ;    hernia ;    inflammation 

of  the  stomach,  brain  or  abdominal  viscera;  bleeding  from 
the  stomach,  bowels  or  lungs  ;  aneurism  and  asthenia. 

Gastric  sedatives  and  anti-emetics  are  agents  used  to  re- 
lieve pain  in  the  stomach  and  vomiting.     These  include ; 


Ice 

Cocaine 

Hot  water 

Cerium  oxalate 

Bismuth  subcarbonate 

Lime  water 

Bismuth  subnitrate 

Minute  doses  of  arsenic 

Carbon  dioxide 

"      **  ipecac 

Hydrocyanic  acid 

"      ♦'  alcohol 

Morphine 

"      '•  iodine 

Menthol 

"      ''  silver  nitrate 

Carbolic  acid 

Chloroform 

Creasote 

Chloral 

Aconite 

Bromides 

Belladonna 

Nitrites 

Hyoscyamus 

Most  of  these  agents  act  locally,  but  opium  and  mor- 
phine, chloral,  the  bromides,  prussic  acid  and  the  nitrites 
act  centrally. 


USES  OF  GASTRIC   SEDATIVES  AND  ANTI-EMETICS    IN   CANINE 
PRACTICE. 

It  must  be  recognized  that  vomiting  is  merely  a  symptom. 
It  is,  therefore,  essential  to  remove  the  cause.  This  may 
sometimes   be  accomplished  by   starving,   the   use    of    an 


24  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

emetic,  or  tepid  water.  If  vomiting  is  due  to  acute  irrita- 
tion of  the  stomach,  as  is  frequently  the  case  in  dogs,  ice 
and  bismuth  subnitrate  (gr.  x.-xx.),  with  tincture  of  aconite 
(Tfl-i.-ii.),  form  suitable  remedies.  When  vomiting  arises  from 
indigestion  and  fermentation,  carbolic  acid  with  bismuth 
often  act  favorably.  The  vomiting  following  anaesthesia  is 
probably  of  central  origin.  Here  enemata  of  laudanum 
(Tr[.x.-xxx.)  and  sodium  bromide  (gr.  xx.-xxx.)  are  beneficial. 
Ipecac,  iodine,  silver  nitrate  and  the  like  are  useful  in  vom- 
iting dependent  upon  an  atonic  or  depressed  state  of  the 
stomach.  When  vomiting  is  continuous,  small  quantities  of 
milk  and  lime  water,  equal  parts,  or  peptonized  milk 
( 3  ii.-iv.),  or  a  drachm  of  cracked  ice  with  a  few  drops  of 
brandy,  should  be  given  at  half-hour  intervals.  It  may  be 
rarely  necessary  to  resort  to  rectal  feeding. 

Purgatives  c/r  cathartics  are  agents  which  empty  the 
bowels.  They  act :  (1)  By  stimulating  peristaltic  action. 
(2)  By  increasing  the  secretions  (succus  entericus)  of  the 
intestinal  glands  and,  perhaps,  transudation  of  fluid  from 
the  blood  vessels  in  the  walls  of  the  intestines.  (3j  By  hin- 
dering absorption  of  secretions  and  fluids  which  normally 
occurs  in  the  lower  bowels.  (4)  By  a  combination  of  two  or 
more  of  these  methods.     Purgatives  may  be  divided  into  : 

1.  Laxatives. — These  include  such  agents  as : 
Olive  oil  Nux  vomica 

Cottonseed  oil  ^^^^^  ^^^   i  small  dose 

Magnesia  Linseed  oil  j 

Sulphur 

These  drugs  slightly  increase  intestinal  action,  chiefly 
by  stimulation  of  peristalsis. 

2.  Simple  Purgatives. — These  stimulate  secretion  and 
peristaltic  action.     Among  them  may  be  mentioned  : 

Aloes  Rhubarb 

Calomel  Senna 

Linseed  oil  Cascara  sagrada 

Castor  oil  Frangula 

3.  Drastic  Purgatives. — Drastics  are  essentially  gastro- 
intestinal irritants,  and  in  large  doses  cause  mucous  and 


DRUGS   ACTING   ON   THE   DIGESTIVE   ORGANS  25 

bloody  diarrhoea,  congestion  of  the  mucous  membrane  of 
the  alimentary  canal  and  severe  colic.  They  may  produce 
death  in  poisonous  doses  with  collapse  by  reason  of  gastro- 
enteritis. Drastics  greatly  increase  both  peristaltic  action 
and  secretion,  and  are  contra-indicated  in  irritable  and  in- 
flamed conditions  of  the  digestive  tract.  They  are,  however, 
indicated  for  their  revulsant  or  derivative  effect  (i.e.,  to  dilate 
the  blood  vessels  in  the  alimentary  canal  and  to  cause  an 
outpouring  of  serum  from  the  blood,  thus  relieving  conges- 
tion in  other  parts)  in  some  acute  inflammations,  as  in  brain 
diseases.  Their  medicinal  action  is  often  attended  with 
considerable  and  irregular  peristaltic  contractions,  so  that 
griping  occurs.  The  latter  is  prevented  by  suitable  combi- 
nation with  other  purgatives ;  with  hyoscyamus  and  bella- 
donna ;  or  with  carminatives,  as  ginger.  The  drastics  in- 
clude : 

Croton  oil  Scammony 

Colocynth  Jalap 

Gamboge  Elaterium 

4.  Hydrogogue  Purgatives, — Hydrogogues  are  agents 
which  chiefly  increase  the  fluidity  of  the  intestinal  contents. 
They  include : 

(a)  SALINE  PURGATIVES 

Magnesium  sulphate  Sodium  phosphate 

Sodium  sulphate  Potassium  bitartrate 

(b)   DRASTICS 

Jalap  Scammony 

Elaterium 

The  salines  stimulate  secretion  by  reason  of  their  bit- 
terness, and  by  their  irritant  and  specific  properties.  They, 
moreover,  hold  on  to  the  fluid  thus  secreted  and  hinder  its 
absorption  because  of  their  slow  diffasibility.  Purgation 
follows,  owing  to  the  mechanical  effect  of  the  increased 
fluidity  in  the  bowels,  and  since  the  augmented  bulk  of  the 
intestinal  contents  excites  peristaltic  action.  When  it  is 
desirable  to  remove  fluid  from  the  blood  the  salt  should  be 
given  in  concentrated  solution,  but  when  a  speedy  purgative 


26  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

action  only  is  required  the  saline  should  be  administered  in 
considerable  dilution.  This  happens  because  salines  con- 
tinue to  cause  an  outpouring  of  fluid  (succus  entericus)  into 
the  intestines  until  a  5  to  6  per  cent,  solution  of  the  salt  is 
reached.  The  nearer  to  this  degree  of  dilution  (5-6  per 
cent.),  therefore,  the  dose  is  given,  the  more  quickly  will  it 
purge. 

The  drastics  included  in  this  class  of  purgatives  have 
the  power  of  markedly  increasing  intestinal  secretion  as  well 
as  peristaltic  action. 

5.  Ckolagogne  Purgatives. — Cholagogues  are  agents  which 
assist  in  removing  bile  from  the  body.  They  do  this  in  two 
ways.  1.  By  directly  stimulating  the  secretion  of  bile. 
These  are  called  Direct  Cholaguoges,  or  Hepatic  Stimulants. 
2.  By  increasing  peristalsis  in  the  upper  portion  of  the 
small  intestines,  and  thus  hastening  the  expulsion  of  bile 
from  the  bowels.  These  are  called  Indirect  Cholagogues. 
Some  cholagogues  are  not  generally  considered  purgatives, 
but  it  is  proper  to  classify  all  of  them  thus,  since  bile  stim- 
ulates peristalsis. 

The  functions  of  the  liver  which  cholagogues  influence 
— more  or  less — are  as  follows  : 

1.  Destructive  Action. — The  liver  not  only  destroys  the 
toxicity  of  peptones  and  other  poisonous  fermentative  and 
putrefactive  products  of  digestion,  but  antagonizes  as  well 
the  effect  of  toxins  and  alkaloids  derived  from  various  sources^ 
including  those  absorbed  from  the  alimentary  tract. 

2.  Constructive  Action. — The  liver  completes  the  assimi- 
lation of  peptones  by  converting  them  into  albumin  and 
globulin  for  immediate  use.  An  important  hepatic  function 
is  the  formation  of  glycogen  from  peptones  and  sugar  occur- 
ring as  digestive  products.  Finally  urea  is  produced  in  the 
liver  from  products  of  oxidation  in  the  body,  as  leucin. 

3.  Excretory  Action. — The  liver  produces  bile  which  is 
both  an  excretion  and  secretion.  In  bile  are  eliminated,  as 
toxic  matters,  biliary  acids  (the  product  of  liver  cells),  bile 
pigment  (the  result  of  decomposition   of  red  blood  cells  in 


DRUGS   ACTING  ON  THE   DIGESTIVE   ORGANS  27 

the  spleen),  and  lecithin  and  cholesterin  (the  waste  pro- 
ducts of  nerve  tissue  and  cellular  activity).  The  bile  pigment 
and  acids  are  rendered  inert  in  the  bowel  by  precipitation 
in  the  acid  chyme. 

4.  Secretory  Action. — Bile,  as  a  secretion,  is  utilized  in 
the  intestines,  where  it  is  instrumental  in  the  emulsification 
and  absorption  of  food-fat  and  as  an  intestinal  antiseptic. 
Experiments  on  fasting,  curarized  dogs — from  which  all  the 
bile  was  removed  through  glass  tubes  connected  with  the 
common  bile  duct — have  shown  that  the  following  drugs 
particularly  stimulate  biliary  secretion. 

DIRECT    CHOLAGOGUES. 

^Podophyllum  Ipecac 

Aloes  Euonymus 

^Rhubarb  *Nitro-hydrochlorlc  Acid 
Colchicum  Corrosive  Sublimate 

Sodium  Sulphate  Sodium  Salicylate 

*Sodium  Phosphate 

These  experiments  may  not  apply  to  all  animals  owing 
to  the  differences  in  food  requirements  and  anatomy.  The 
drugs  marked  with  an  asterisk  have  been  found  by  clinical 
evidence  most  valuable.  The  purgatives  above-mentioned 
act  most  successfully  as  cholagogues  when  given  in  small 
doses. 

INDIRECT   CHOLAGOGUES. 

Calomel 
Mercury 
Most  purgatives  in  a  less  degree. 

The  bile  occurring  at  any  tipae  within  the  bowels  is  in 
part  absorbed  and  then  re- secreted.  This  process  may  be 
repeated  indefinitely,  but  is  prevented  by  purgatives,  espe- 
cially those  increasing  peristalsis  in  the  duodenum  and 
upper  part  of  the  jejunum  (calomel),  because  they  hurry 
along  and  expel  the  bile  in  the  gut  before  it  has  time  to  be 
absorbed. 

In  this  way  calomel  and  purgatives  are  indirect  chola- 
gogues in  removing  bile  from  the  body ;  not  by  stimulating 
its  secretion,  but  by  hastening  its  excretion  from  the  bowels. 


aO  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

Cholagogues  are  serviceable  in  indigestion  and  constipation 
with  disordered  hepatic  functions,  as  shown  by  icterus,  light- 
colored  faeces,  etc.  A  more  complete  method  of  ridding  the 
blood  of  bile  consists  in  the  use  of  both  an  indirect  chola- 
gogue  (to  increase  biliary  secretion)  and  a  direct  chola- 
gogue  (to  sweep  it  out  of  the  bowels).  The  urea-forming 
and  glycogenic  functions  of  the  liver  are  not  influenced  to 
advantage  by  drugs,  with  the  exception  of  opium,  morphine 
and  codeine,  which  lessen  the  amount  of  sugar  in  the  urine 
in  Diabetes  Mellitus. 

GENERAL  USES  OF  PURGATIVES. 

1.  To  empty  the  bowels, — In  this  way  are  removed  faecal 
accumulations  and  poisonous  matters  resulting  from  bacte- 
rial infection,  and  from  fermentative  and  putrefactive  changes 
in  the  intestinal  contents  in  indigestion.  Foreign  bodies, 
bile,  pathological  discharges  and  intestinal  parasites  are  also 
expelled. 

Peristaltic  action  is  quickened  in  chronic  constipation, 
while  spasmodic  and  painful  conditions  (colic)  are  relieved 
by  ridding  the  bowels  of  the  source  of  irritation  causing  the 
trouble. 

2.  To  remove  fluid  from  the  body. — This  effect  is  more 
marked  after  the  use  of  concentrated  solutions  of  saline  pur- 
gatives and  other  hydrogogues.  Concentration  of  the  blood 
and  resulting  absorption  of  dropsies  of  renal  and  cardiac 
origin,  or  inflammatory  effusions,  can  be  accomplished  by 
these  agents. 

3.  To  revvlse. — That  is,  to  cause  dilatation  of  the  blood 
vessels  in  the  intestinal  walls  and  so  withdraw  blood  from 
remotely  congested  areas,  as  in  cerebritis.  The  drastics  are 
appropriate  for  this  service.  Pain  and  nervous  phenomena 
in  other  regions  are  sometimes  benefited  by  the  counter- 
irritant  action  of  drastic  cathartics. 

4  To  deplete,  —  Cathartics,  particularly  concentrated 
saline  solutions,  deplete  the  body  both  locally  and  generally 
by  withdrawal  of  serum  from  the  blood  vessels.     Purgatives 


GENERAL  USES  OF  PURGATIVES  29 

tend  to  combat  inflammation  (antiphlogistic  action)  in  this 
way  by  lowering  blood  tension  while  they  also  favor  reduc- 
tion of  a  febrile  temperature.  Local  depletion  by  salines  is 
especially  indicated  in  diarrhoea  and  dysentery,  and  in  the 
first  stages  of  acute  inflammation  of  the  digestive  tract. 
Plethora  and  obesity  are  often  treated  by  a  depletive  method 
with  cathartics. 

5.  To  erimmafe.— Deleterious  material  in  the  blood  re- 
sulting from  renal  insufficiency,  and  probably  from  infection 
in  acute  diseases,  may  be  eliminated  to  a  considerable  extent 
by  purgatives.  So  also  may  be  hsemic  sources  of  rheuma- 
matism,  lymphangitis  and  hsemoglobinsemia. 

Contra'indications.—The^e  refer  rather  to  the  special 
agent  than  to  any  disorder,  for  there  is  scarcely  a  condition 
in  which  some  cathartic  is  not  permissible. 

Drastics  are  inadmissible  under  the  following  circum- 
stances :  in  catarrhal  conditions  of  the  respiratory  and 
digestive  tracts,  intestinal  haemorrhage,  collapse,  angemia, 
hernia,  prolapse  of  rectum,  metritis,  nephritis,  pregnancy,' 
general  debility,  and  in  wounds  of  and  operations  upon  the 
pelvic  or  abdominal  viscera. 

In  well-defined  enteritis  and  peritonitis  cathartics  are 
to  be  avoided.  In  mechanical  obstruction  of  the  intestines 
surgical  interference  is  indicated  when  practicable,  but  where 
this  is  impossible  enemata  and  possibly  purgatives  may  be 
employed.  The  intestines,  developed  to  an  extent  dispro- 
portionate to  the  size  of  the  stomach  in  the  horse,  are  pow- 
erfully influenced  by  cathartics,,  so  that  in  catarrh  of  the 
respiratory  organs  and  influenza,  metastasis,  or  change  in 
the  site  of  the  inflammation  may  occur,  and  the  intestines 
may  become  involved  with  the  occurrence  of  excessive 
purging  (super-purgation)  after  the  ingestion  of  any  but  the 
mildest  cathartics,  as  linseed  oil.  Aloes  is  the  purgative 
given  horses  for  ordinary  purposes,  while  epsom  and  glauber 
salts  are  suitable  for  ruminants  and  pigs,- and  calomel  and 
castor  oil  for  dogs.  Water  assists  the  action  of  purgatives, 
and  its  ingestion  shou'd  be  encouragpd  by  supplying  a  liberal 


30  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

quantity  of  common  salt  either  with  the  purgative  or  on  the 
food,  and  also  by  sweetening  the  drinking  water  with  molasses 
in  the  case  of  cattle.  If  the  action  of  cathartics  is  delayed, 
it  is  usually  advisable  to  give  enemata. 

Enemata,  or  Clysters. — These  are  fluid  injections  into  the 
rectum  ahd  are  used  for  the  following  purposes  : 

1.  To  empty  the  lower  bowels  when  purgatives  are 
inadmissible,  as  in  intestinal  obstruction,  ulceration  and 
inflammation,  faecal  accumulations,  debilitated  conditions, 
obstinate  vomiting,  unconsciousness,  and  in  inability  to 
swallow  (sore  throat  and  tetanus). 

2.  To  relieve  pain,  spasm  (of  intestines  and  bladder), 
and  shock,  when  deep,  hot  enemata  (105^-115^  F.)  are  used. 

3.  To  save  life.  After  severe  haemorrhage,  deep  injec- 
tions of  hot  normal  salt  solutions,  110  F°.  (Enteroclysis, 
see  p.  703.) 

4.  To  accelerate  the  action  of  purgatives,  and  as  a 
preparation  for  abdominal  and  pelvic  operations. 

5.  To  supply  food.     (See  artificial  feeding,  ]>.  663.) 

6.  For  their  local  effect  upon  inflammation  of  the  mucous 
membrane  of  the  rectum  and  colon.  Opium  and  boiled 
starch  solution ;  silver  nitrate  and  tannic  acid — in  diarrhoea, 
dysentery,  colitis  and  proctitis. 

7.  To  kill  intestinal  parasites  (oxyurides), — solutions  of 
quassia  and  common  salt. 

8.  To  administer  medicines  in  dysphagia  due  to  pharyn- 
gitis, tetanus,  unconsciousness  (apoplexy,  coma  and  convul- 
sions) ;  to  obstinate  vomiting  and  other  causes. 

9.  To  reduce  temperature, — cold  enemata  in  fever. 

10.  To  produce  diuresis, — deep  injections  for  retention 
and  absorption  into  the  blood. 

11.  To  improve  muscular  tone  and  intestinal  peristalsis 
in  chronic  constipation, — cold  enemata  (55^-60^  F.). 

12.  To  overcome  twist  and  intussusception. 

13.  To  stimulate  peristalsis,  relieve  congestion,  and 
increase  the  flow  of  bile  in  catarrhal  jaundice, — cold,  deep 
irrigations  (55^-60^  F.)  are  here  indicated. 


USES   OF   ENEMATA  31 

Enemata  are  best  given  by  allowing  water  to  gravitate 
into  the  bowel  from  a  height  of  2  to  4  feet.  The  ordinary 
fountain  syringe  of  human  practice  is  suitable  for  the  smaller 
animals,  while  for  deep  injections  or  irrigations  a  human 
rectal  tube  should  be  slipped  over  the  hard  rubber  tip.  In 
the  case  of  horses  or  cattle  enemata  may  be  siphoned 
through  a  rubber  tube  or  piece  of  small  hose.  This  is 
accomplished  by  filling  the  tube  with  water  and  compressing 
it  at  either  end  to  prevent  the  escape  of  water,  while  one  end 
is  submerged  in  a  pail  or  tub  raised  2-4  feet  above  the 
patient,  and  the  other  end  is  then  introduced  directly  within 
the  bowel ;  or  affixed  to  a  rectal  tube  six  feet  long,  when 
deep  injections  or  irrigations  are  in  order.  A  continuous 
flow  is  thus  obtained.  A  still  simpler  method  consists  in 
pouring  water  into  a  funnel  which  has  been  fitted"  to  one  end 
of  a  rubber  tube  while  the  other  end  is  passed  into  the 
rectum.  That  portion  of  the  tube  which  is  to  be  placed 
within  the  gut  should  always  be  lubricated  with  vaseline, 
oil  or  soap.  Manual  removal  of  hardened  faeces  (scybala) 
must  be  practised  in  all  animals  before  the  use  of  enemata. 
The  finger  or  blunt  curette  may  be  utilized  for  this  purpose 
in  small  patients.  The  injection  of  linseed  or  cottonseed 
oil  (H.oi.;  D.  5  ii-)  an  hour  before  the  use  of  larger  enemata 
assists  ill  softening  the  intestinal  contents. 

When  deep  injections  are  indicated,  the  hind  quarters 
of  the  animal  should  be  raised — small  animals  may  be 
partially  inverted — and  the  fluid  allowed  to  flow  in  slowly, 
pushing  in  the  rectal  tube  as  the  gut  distends.  Such  enemata 
are  more  effective  whether  the  object  be  to  simply  unload 
the  bowels,  to  cause  retention  and  absorption  of  the  fluid, 
or  to  wash  out  the  intestines.  One  to  several  gallons  of 
warm  water  form  a  suitable  quantity  for  unloading  the 
bowels  of  large  animals  ;  one-half  pint  to  a  quart,  in  the 
case  of  small  patients.  The  injections  should  be  repeated 
until  a  good  evacuation  is  secured.  To  increase  the  purga- 
tive effect  of  enemata  a  cup  each  of  soft  soap,  salt  and 
molasses  are  added  to  a  gallon  of  water ;  or  a  tablespoonful 


32  GENERAL  ACTIONS   OF  DRUGS 

each  to  a  pint.  Linseed  oil  or  cottonseed  oil  are  also  mixed 
with  water.  Epsom  salts  are  still  more  efficacious  (H.ibii. 
to  gallon  of  water.  (D.  5  i.-iv.  to  pint);  while  oil  of  turpentine 
(H.  3  ii.-iv.;  D.  3  i.-iv.)  is  very  active  and  especially  useful  in 
colic  and  flatulence,  mixed  with  the  enema.  When  clysters 
are  given  to  be  absorbed  they  should  always  be  deeply 
injected  in  quantities  of  one-half  to  one  gallon  for  horses ; 
or  one-half  to  one  pint  for  dogs.  In  chronic  constipation 
and  torpidity  of  the  bowels  plain  cold  water  (55°-60°  F.) 
injections  are  indicated. 

Medicated  irrigations  are  most  serviceable  in  catarrhal 
disorders  of  the  bowels  (dysentery,  etc.),  i.e.,  the  fluid  is 
allowed  to  flow  in  and  out  again  till  the  solution  returns 
clear. 


Drugs  Acting  on  the  Circulation. 
I. — Acting  Upon  the  Blood. 

(a)  Blood  Plasma. — The  alkalinity  of  the  blood  serum 
can  be  increased  by  the  use  of  the  salts  of  the  alkaline  and 
earth  metals  ;  i.e.,  potassium,  sodium,  lithium,  ammonium, 
magnesium  and  calcium  compounds.  This  effect  is  of  value 
therapeutically  in  rheumatism,  hsemoglobinsemia  and  uric- 
acidaemia.  In  the  latter  condition  the  antacids — especially 
potassium  and  lithium  salts — dissolve  uric  acid,  convert  it 
into  urates,  alkalize  the  urine  and  increase  its  secretion. 
Drugs  which  remove  considerable  fluid  from  the  body,  as 
purgatives,  diaphoretics  and  diuretics,  necessarily  alter  the 
composition  of  the  blood  serum.  By  removing  fluid  from 
the  plasma,  these  agents  are  useful  in  aiding  absorption  of 
inflammatory  exudations,  dropsies  and  oedemas,  since  the 
mass  of  fluid  removed  is  soon  replaced  from  that  contained 
in  the  food  and  tissues.  In  the  various  infectious  and  con- 
stitutional diseases  treatment  is  largely  directed  to  exciting 
the  secretions  and  excretions  with  the  purpose  of  eliminating 
products  of  tissue  waste  and  bacterial  action  from  the  blood, 


DBUGS   ACTING  ON  THE  CIRCULATION  33 

which  prove  detrimental  to  the  system.  This  line  of  treat- 
ment is  pursued  in  uraemia,  haemoglobinsemia  and  lymph- 
angitis. Venesection,  saline  infusions,  hypodermoclysis  and 
enteroclysis  alter  the  character  of  the  plasma  and  often  have 
a  life-saving  value.     (See  p.  696-703.) 

(b)  T he  Red  Corpuscles. — The  so-called  blood  tonics,  or 
hcematinics  influence  the  red  corpuscles,  increasing  their 
number  and  content  of  haemoglobin  when  there  is  a  defi- 
ciency of  either.  The  effect  upon  the  augmentation  of  haemo- 
globin is  more  marked. 

H^MATINICS. 

Iron  and  its  salts  Corrosive  sublimate 

Arsenic  Potassium  permanganate 

Copper  salts  Manganese  dioxide 

The  first  two  avR  immensely  superior  to  the  others  in 
blood-making  properties.  Iron  especially  favors  the  forma- 
tion of  haemoglobin ;  arsenic  increases  the  number  of  red 
corpuscles. 

(c)  White  Corpuscles. — It  is  possible  experimentally  to 
arrest  purulent  exudations  caused  by  irritation  and  inflam- 
mation when  quinine  is  introduced  into  the  blood  or  applied 
locally  to  blood  vessels.  This  happens  because  quinine — 
like  other  poisons  to  amoebae  —  prevents  the  amoeboid 
movement  or  migration  (diapedesis)  of  leucocytes  through 
the  vessel  walls.  Unfortunately  it  is  impossible  to  give 
large  enough  doses  in  practice  to  realize  such  favorable 
results  in  inflammatory  disorders.  An  euormons  increase 
of  leucocytes  (leucocytosis)  occurs  in  acute  diseases  accom- 
panied by  a  local  exudative  process,  and  also  in  leukaemia, 
etc.  Arsenic,  and  in  some  cases  quinine,  appear  to  reduce 
the  leucocytosis,  and  in  leukaemia  seem  to  thus  aid  recovery. 

II.— Drugs  Acting  on  the  Heart. 

The  mechanism  controlling  the  heart,  which  is  influenced 
by  drugs,  is  as  follows  : 

1.  Heart-muscle  and  ganglia. 

2.  Inhibitory  apparatus,  including  the  vagus  nerve  roots 


34  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

originating  from  the  medullary  centre,  and  its  fibres  termi- 
nating in  the  heart. 

3.  The  accelerator  apparatus,  consisting  of  the  accele- 
rator nerve — with  centres  in  the  cerebrum  and  medulla — 
and  its  fibres  passing  down  the  spinal  cord  to  the  dorsal 
nerves ;  from  thence  through  the  first  thoracic  ganglion  to 
the  sympathetic,  and  so  on  to  the  cardiac  plexus,  with  peri- 
pheral terminations  in  the  heart.  The  ganglia  in  the  heart 
are  situated  about  the  auriculo- ventricular  groove  and  at  the 
entrance  of  the  superior  and  inferior  venae  cavae,  and  at  the 
orifices  of  the  pulmonary  veins. 

The  ganglia  have  been  divided  into  the  inhibitory, 
connected  with  the  vagus  nerve ;  the  motor ;  and  the 
accelerator  ganglia;  and  they  are  supposed  to  be  influenced 
by  drugs  as  well  as  the  rest  of  the  mechanism  detailed  above. 
Our. knowledge  of  the  functions  of  these  ganglia  is  imperfect 
and  therefore  of  the  action  of  drugs  on  them. 

'  The  action  of  drugs  on  the  heart-muscle  has  been  deter- 
mined by  estimating  their  influence  on  the  lower  two-thirds 
of  the  apex,  which  is  comparatively  free  from  nerve  supply. 

The  action  of  drugs  on  the  inhibitory  apparatus  is  of 
more  importance  than  that  exerted  on  the  accelerator  nerve, 
and  we  know  more  about  it.  Drugs  usually  affect  the  roots 
of  the  vagus  nerve  in  the  centre,  or  its  peripheral  termina- 
tions in  the  heart,  rather  than  its  trunk.  The  heart  is 
influenced  by  drugs  as  follows : 

1.  Stimulation  of  the  inhibitory  apparatus  leads  to 
slowing  and  weakening  of  the  heart-beats,  or  to  both. 

2.  Depression  of  the  inhibitory  apparatus  results  in 
quickening  or  strengthening  the  heart-beats,  or  both. 

3.  Depression  of  the  accelerator  apparatus  induces 
decrease  in  the  rate  or  force  of  the  heart-beats,  or  both. 

4.  Stimulation  of  the  heart-muscle  produces  increase  in 
the  rate  or  force  of  the  heart-beats,  or  both. 

5.  Depression  of  the  heart-muscle  lowers  the  rate  or 
force  of  the  heart-beats,  or  both. 

The  vagus  centre  is  stimulated  by  agencies  increasing 


DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  CIRCULATION  85 

blood-pressure,  or  causing  asphyxia.  On  the  other  hand, 
agencies  reducing  blood-pressure  depress  the  vagus,  or 
stimulate  the  accelerator  nerve,  or  both.  Thus,  the  nitrites, 
as  amyl  nitrite,  nitro-glycerin  and  spirit  of  nitrous  ether, 
quicken  the  heart  by  lowering  vascular  tension.  External 
stimuli  to  sensory  nerves  reflexly  stimulate  the  heart,  as 
also  do  many  locally  irritating  agents  taken  internally ;  e.g., 
strong  alcoholic  or  ammoniacal  preparations. 

Since  drugs  commonly  influence  more  than  one  part  of 
the  mechanism  controlling  the  heart,  and  since  it  is  difficult 
to  determine  the  exact  physiological  details  in  such  complex 
actions,  we  shall  content  ourselves  with  tabulating  the 
actions  of  drugs  ordinarily  employed  for  their  influence  on 
the  heart,  remembering  that  while  moderate  doses  produce 
the  effects  enumerated  below,  poisonous  doses  often  give 
rise  to  diametrically  opposite  actions. 

(a)  Drugs  increasing  the  force  of  the  heart-beat. 

Digitalis 
Strophanthus 
Sparteine 
Squill 

(b)  Drugs  increasing  the  rate  of  heart-beats. 

Belladonna  Stramonium 

Atropine  Cocaine 

Hyoscyamus 

(c)  Drugs  increasing  the  force  and  rate  of  heart-beats. 

Alcohol  Strychnine 

Chloroform  Cafifeine 

Ether  Quinine 

Ammonia  Arsenic 
Ammonium  carbonate 

(d)  Drugs  decreasing  the  force  and  rate  of  the  heart-beats. 

Aconite  Prussic  acid 

Veratrum  viride  Ergot 

Antimony  salts 

The  drugs  most  frequently  given  to  animals  for  their 
action  on  the  heart  are  alcohol,  ether,  digitalis,  strophanthus, 


Barium  salts     "\ 

Camphor  I  ^^  ^ot  alter  rate 

Slow  the  pulse      physostigmine  j      particularly 


36  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

ammonia,  ammonium  carbonate,  camphor,  caffeine,  strych- 
nine, atropine,  aconite  and  veratrum  viride.  The  reader  is 
referred  to  special  articles  on  these  drugs  for  therapeutical 
indications  and  other  details. 

III. — Drugs  Acting  on  the  Blood  Vessels. 

The  following  table  includes  the  mechanism  regulating 

vascular  tension : 

Smooth  muscular  fibres 
1.  In  the  walls  of  the  vessels.  ^  Terminations  of  vasodilators  and  vaso- 
constrictors 


I 

Nervesupplyof  .eseeU....  \  ^t^i'„t,7,tors 


Vasomotor  centres  in  the  medulla  and 
subsidiary    centres    in    the    spinal 
3.  Centres •{       cord  and  sympathetic  system,  con- 
trolling the  vasodilating  and  con- 
stricting nerves 

Each  vessel  is  governed  by  two  sets  of  fibres, — the 
constricting  and  dilating, — but  we  cannot  discriminate 
between  the  action  of  a  drug  on  the  muscular  fibres  and  the 
peripheral  nerve  endings  in  the  vessel  walls ;  nor  can  we 
always  tell  whether  a  drug  acts  to  stimulate  one  set  of 
peripheral  fibres  or  depress  the  other. 

Vascular  tension  is  increased  not  only  by  contraction  of 
vessels,  but  also  by  drugs  which  cause  the  heart  to  beat  more 
quickly,  and  by  those  making  its  pulsations  more  forcible 
and  complete,  so  that  all  the  blood  is  Squeezed  out  of  the 
ventricle  at  each  contraction.  Contrariwise,  blood  pressure 
is  diminished,  not  only  by  those  drugs  inducing  vascular 
dilatation,  but  by  those  reducing  the  rate  or  force  of  the 
heart,  or  both. 

We  shall  simply  classify  drugs  influencing  the  vessels 
according  as  to  whether  they  act  after  absorption  into  the 
blood,  or  only  when  applied  locally  to  the  vessel  walls. 

(a)  Drugs  acting  systemically  to  contract  vessels. 

Ergot  Squill 

Digitalis  Sparteine 

Strophanthus  Strychnine 


DRUGS  ACTING  ON   THE  NEIIVOUS   SYSTEM  37 

(b)  Drugs  acting  systemically  to  dilate  vessels,    j ; 

Amyl  nitrite  Chloral 

Nitroglycerin  Aconite 

Spirit  of  nitrous  ether  Opium 

Alcohol  Belladonna  (secondary  action) 

Ether  Hyoscyamus  " 

Chloroform  Stramonium  * ' 

(c)  Agents  acting  locally  to  contract  vessels. 
Cold  Astringents 

(d)  Agents  acting  locally  to  dilate  vessels. 
Heat  Counter-irritants 

Uses. — Drugs  or  agencies  causing  general  dilatation  of 
vessels  are  useful  in  overcoming  internal  congestions  and 
colds  by  equalizing  the  circulation ;  that  is,  by  causing  the 
blood  to  be  distributed  more  equably  about  the  body.  They 
are  also  of  benefit  in  morbid  conditions  attended  with  a 
high,  vascular  tension;  and  are  serviceable  in  dilating 
peripheral  vessels  and  in  causing  perspiration  and  loss  of 
heat  in  fevers  (spirit  of  nitrous  ether  and  alcohol).  Drugs 
inducing  general  contraction  of  vessels  are  employed  in 
disorders  characterized  by  loss  of  tone,  as  in  shock  and 
collapse ;  and  in  heart  weakness  or  disease  (digitalis  and 
strychnine) ;  also  in  internal  haemorrhage  and  inflammations 
(ergot) ;  and  to  aid  the  absorption  of  dropsies  and  cede  mas. 
The  uses  of  drugs  locally  contracting  vessels  will  be 
described  under  Astringents  (p.  63)  and  of  agents  locally 
dilating  vessels  under  counter-irritants  (p.  62). 


Drugs  Acting  on  the  Nervous  System. 

I. — Drugs  Influencing  the  Brain. 

It  is  impossible  to  classify  drugs  according  to  their 
action  on  the  various  centres  of  the  brain,  because  our 
knowledge  is  insufficient.  In  a  general  way,  drugs  affect- 
ing the  nervous  system  fall  into  two  groups,— the  excitant 
and  depressant.     But  another  difficulty  arises  in  regard  to 


38  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

classification  from  the  fact  that  the  same  drug  usually  both 
excites  and  depresses.  Probably  all  drugs  influencing  the 
nervous  apparatus  possess  some  exciting  action,  and  most 
drugs  which  excite  in  small  doses  cause  depression  and 
paralysis  after  poisonous  quantities. 

For  example,  alcohol,  ether  and  chloroform  are  cerebral 
excitants  in  small  doses,  but  in  large  doses  are  depressants 
(hypnotics)  and  paralyzants  (anaesthetics).  Belladonna  and 
its  congeners,  on  the  other  hand,  only  excite  the  brain  in 
large  amounts ;  while  opium  and  cannabis  Indica  may  excite 
the  brain  in  small  doses,  but  are  used  for  their  more  common 
depressant  action.  The  condition  of  the  patient  has  some 
bearing  on  the  action  of  a  drug  influencing  the  brain.  Thus 
moderate  doses  of  alcohol  depress  and  stupefy  healthy 
animals  while  stimulating  the  enfeebled  and  ill-nourished. 

The  brain  of  the  lower  animals  is  undeveloped  compared 
to  that  of  man,  and,  in  accordance  with  the  general  fact  that 
the  more  highly  a  portion  of  the  nervous  mechanism  is 
organized  the  more  powerfully  is  it  influenced  by  drugs,  it 
follows  th:it  drugs  actiug  on  the  brain  and  cord  are  more 
prone  to  aff'ect  the  cord  in  veterinary  patients,  while  impres- 
sing the  brain  more  potently  in  man. 

We  shall  be  content  to  classify  drugs  acting  on  the 
nervous  system  according  to  their  most  pronounced  action 
in  moderate  doses. 

(a)  Cerebral  Excitants. 

Alcohol  Caffeine 

Anaesthetics  Quinine 

Camphor  Cocaine 

Uses. — These  drugs  are  rarely  used  simply  to  excite  the 
brain,  but  forjother  purposes.  Camphor,  caffeine  and  quinine 
are  employed  to  generally  excite  the  nervous  system  in 
depressed  conditions.  Caffeine  is  a  valuable  antidote  to  the 
depressing  cerebral  action  of  opium  in  poisoning. 

(b)  Cerebral  Depressants. — It  is  fortunate  that  drugs 
progressively  paralyzing  the  functions  of  the  brain  follow 
the  so-called  law  of  dissolution — i.e.,  paralyze  the  various 


DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  NERVOUS   SYSTEM  39 

functions  of  the  brain  in  the  inverse  order  of  their  evolu- 
tionary development.  The  centres  last  to  be  acquired  are 
the  first  to  be  paralyzed  (cerebral  centres) ;  while  those  of 
earliest  origin  (the  respiratory,  vagus  and  vasomotor  centres) 
are  last  to  succumb  to  the  action  of  cerebral  depressants. 
The  cerebral  depressants  are  used  mostly  to  relieve  pain, 
when  they  are  called  anodynes.*  Pain  is  due  to  irritation  of 
any  sensory  nerve,  or  the  sensory  tract  in  the  spinal  cord, 
or  of  the  sensory  centres  in  the  brain.  Pain  may  be  relieved 
by  paralyzing  any  portion  of  this  path  and  destroying 
connection  with  the  perceptive  centres  in  the  brain. 

(1)  Anodynes^  by  reason  of  their  action  on  the  brain. 

Opium  Chloral 

Morphine  Cannabis  Indica 

Codeine  Gelsemium 

Alcohol  Bromides 
Anaesthetics 

(2)  Narcotics. — This  term  is  a  broad  and  somewhat 
inclusive  one.  Narcotics  embrace  drugs  which  depress  the 
brain  and  cause  sleep  (hypnotics  or  soporifics)  and  stupor 
(some  anodynes  and  anaesthetics),  and  finally  paralyze  the 
respiratory  and  circulatory  functions.  The  following  may 
be  included  in  this  group : 

Opium  Cannabis  Indica 

Alcohol  Belladonna 

Anaesthetics  Stramonium 

Chloral  Hyoscyamus 

(a)  Hypnotics  or  Soporifics  (drugs  causing  sleep). 


Opium  Paraldehyde 

Morphine  Urethrane 

Chloral  Sulphonal 

Bromides  Trional 
Cannabis  Indica 


Of  little  import- 
ance in  Veterin- 
ary practice 


Uses. — Hypnotics  are  of  not  much  value  in  Veterinary 
medicine  by  simply  promoting  sleep.  Their  general  sedative 
and  anodyne  actions  are  utilized  in  relieving  motor  excite- 
ment (spasms),  or  sensory  excitement  (pain). 


*0r  Analgesics. 


40  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

(b)   General  Ancesihetics. 

Ether 

Chloroform 
Nitrous  oxide 
Ethylene  dichloride 
Methylene  dichloride 
Schleich's  mixture 


Of  slight  value  in  Veterinary  medicine 


AnsesthetiGS  are  agents  which  abolish  sensation  generally 
or  locally.  It  is  thought  that  the  general  anaesthetics  act 
directly  on  the  nerve  cells.  Ansesthetics— like  narcotics 
generally — first  stimulate  and  then  depress  the  nerve  centres, 
but  depression  is  by  far  their  most  salient  and  useful  effect. 

Anaesthetics  destroy  the  functions  of  nerve  centres  in 
the  cerebrum  and  spinal  cord,  and  so  abolish  pain,  sensation 
and  reflex  action.  The  law  of  dissolution  is  exemplified  in 
their  action.  Anaesthesia  is  commonly  described  in  three 
stages.  (1)  The  first  or  stimulant  stage  is  exhibited  by  excite- 
ment and  struggling,  owing  in  part  to  fright  and  in  part  to 
stimulation,  first  of  the  higher  cerebral  centres,  and  then  of 
the  lower  cortical  centres.  There  are  also  coughing  and 
choking  in  this  stage,  following  the  local  irritation  of  the 
vapor  on  the  respiratory  tract.  There  may  be  vomiting, 
and  the  circulation  aud  respiration  are  temporarily  stimu- 
lated. Stimulation  now  ceases  and  depression  of  the 
cerebrum,  together  with  the  motor,  sensory  and  reflex  spinal 
centres,  appears,  and  ushers  iu  the  (2)  ancesthetic  stage,  char- 
acterized by  muscular  relaxation  and  complete  abolition  of 
consciousness,  sensation  and  motion.  Between  these  two 
stages — the  stimulant  and  anaesthetic — there  sometimes 
occurs  a  transient  state  in  which  sensation  is  lost  before 
consciousness.     This  has  been  styled  the  anodyne  stage. 

Finally  the  (3)  paralytic  stage  ensues,  accompanied  by 
depression  and  then  paralysis  of  the  three  great  vital 
medullary  centres  controlling  the  circulation  and  respiration, 
together  with  that  of  the  lowest  reflex  centres,  so  that  invol- 
untary micturition  and  defaecation  occurs.  The  animal  dies 
of  a  combination  of  vasomotor,  heart  and  respiratory  failure. 


DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  NERVOUS  SYSTEM  41 

If  recovery  should  follow  the  paralytic  stage,  the  bodily 
functions  return  in  the  reverse  order  to  that  in  which  they 
were  lost ;  ^'.e.,  the  lower  vital  functions  first  appear,  followed 
finally  by  the  higher  cerebral  functions. 

Uses. — Anaesthetics  are  employed  in  surgical  operations 
to  prevent  pain  and  struggling;  in  obstetrical  operations 
and  in  the  reduction  of  fractures,  dislocations  and  hernia,  to 
secure  complete  muscular  relaxation  ;  to  overcome  spasms 
and  convulsions  resulting  from  disease  or  poisons  ;  to  arrest 
severe  pain  in  colic ;  and  finally  to  destroy  aged  or  sick  and 
useless  animals. 

For  fuller  details  see  Anaesthesia  (p.  281). 

(c)  Drugs  acting  on  the  cortical  motor  centres  of  the  brain. 

(1)    DRUGS  STIMULATING  THE  MOTOR  CENTRES. 

Strychnine  Physostigmine 

Atropine 

(2)   DRUGS  DEPRESSING  THE  MOTOR  CENTRES. 

The  Bromides  Alcohol 

Chloral  Anaesthetics 

The  action  of  drugs  on  the  cerebral  cortical  centres  has 
been  found  by  comparing  the  local  effect  of  electrical  stim- 
ulation before  and  after  the  internal  use  of  drugs. 

Uses. — The  drugs  depressing  the  cortical  motor  area  of 
the  brain  are  valuable  in  convulsions  and  spasmodic  disorders 
and  in  motor  excitement,  particularly  in  epileptiform 
convulsions  of  dogs. 

II. — Drugs  Acting  on  the  Spinal  Cord. 

The  functions  of  the  cord  consist  in  the  conduction  of 
sensory  impulses  forward  to  the  brain  and  of  motor  impulses 
backward  to  the  muscles;  in  the  origination  of  nervous 
force  in  centres  controlling  certain  functions  (sexual,  sweat- 
ing, etc.) ;  and  in  reflex  action  by  which  the  cord  transmits 
impulses  from  sensory  to  motor  tract  of  the  same  side  of 
the  body,  or  laterally,  from  sensory  to  motor  columns  on 
opposite  sides. 


42 


GENERAL  ACTIONS   OF  DRUGS 


While  drugs  probably  influence  the  various  centres  in 
the  cord,  our  knowledge  of  their  action  is  chiefly  limited  to 
that  exerted  on  the  motor  cells  of  the  inferior  cornua. 

If  a  drug  stimulating  the  motor  cells  of  the  cord  is 
given  experimentally,  slight  peripheral  irritation  will  reflexly 
cause  convulsions,  and,  if  the  cord  is  severed  from  the  brain, 
the  same  phenomena  appear. 

(A)  Drugs  stimulating  the  motor  cells  of  the  inferior  cornucL 


Strychnine 
Brucine 
Thebaine 
Ammonia 


Anaesthetics 

Opium  I  ^  . 

Ergot   j- Primary  action 


Uses. — Strychnine  is  employed  in  paraplegia  resulting 
from  disease  of  the  spinal  cord  after  irritation  caused  by  the 
lesion  has  passed  away. 


(B)  Drugs  depressing 

the  motor  cells  of  the  inferior  cornua. 

(1)   WITHOUT  PRIMARY  STIMULATION. 

Physostigmine 

Sodium 

Bromides 

Potassium 

Ergot 
Nitrites 

Lithium 
Antimony 

'Salts 

Gelsemium 

Silver 

Emetine 

Zinc 

Turpentine 

Saponin 

(2) 

WITB 

[  PRIMARY  STIMULATION. 

Chloral 

Camphor 

Morphine 

Carbolic  acid 

Apomorphine 

Nicotine 

Alcohol 

Veratrine 

Ether 

Mercury 

Chloroform 

Arsenic 

Uses. — Drugs  depressing  the  motor  cells  of  the  cord  are 
serviceable  as  antidotes  in  the  treatment  of  poisoning  by 
those  exciting  the  same  (chloral  and  bromides  in  strychnine 
poisoning),  and  in  convulsive  and  spasmodic  disorders,  as 
chorea  and  tetanus. 


DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  NERVOUS  SYSTEM  43 

III. — Drugs  Acting  on  the  Nerves. 

The  nerve  terminations,  rather  than  their  trunks,  are 
influenced  by  drugs. 

(A)  Drugs  influencing  peripheral  sensory  nerve-endings, 

(1)  Stimulating  sensory  nerve  terminations.  —  Counter- 
irritants.     (See  p.  62.) 

General  Uses. — They  are  applied  externally  (mustard 
and  heat)  to  stimulate  the  heart  and  respiration  in  heart 
failure,  shock  and  collapse. 

(2)  Depressing  sensory  nerve-terminations. — These  include 
local  sedatives  or  anodynes,  which  lessen  sensation ;  and 
local  anaesthetics,  which  abolish  sensation. 


LOCAL 

ANODYNES. 

Aconite 

Prussic  acid 

Menthol 

Sodium  bicarbonate 

Carbolic  acid 

Veratrine 

Atropine 

Heat 

Morphine 

Cold 

Chloral 

LOCAL  AN^JSTHETICS. 

Cocaine 

Methyl  chloride   )   <; 
Ether                      j"  "" 

Eucaine 

Holocaine 

Cold 

Uses. — The  local  anodynes  are  employed  to  relieve  pain 
of  an  inflammatory,  rheumatic  or  neuralgic  character,  and 
itching.  The  local  anaesthetics  are  employed  to  prevent 
pain  in  surgical  operations. 

(B)  Drugs  inflttencing  peripheral  motor  nerve-endings. 

(1)    STIMULATING  MOTOR  NERVE-TERMINATIONS. 

Strychnine  Nicotine 

Pilocarpine  Pyridine 

Aconite 

(3)  DEPRESSING  MOTOR  NERVE-TERMINATIONS. 

Curare  Cocaine 

Conium  Camphor 

Amyl  nitrite  Prussic  acid 

Atropine  Nicotine,  and  many  others 


44  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

Uses. — Drugs  influencing  tlie  peripheral  motor  nerve- 
endings  are  not  of  any  practical  therapeutical  value. 

IV. — Drugs  Acting  on  the  Nerves  or  Special  Sense. 

(A)  Drugs  acting  on  the  eye, 

(1)  Drugs  influencing  the  pupil. — The  mechanism  controll- 
ing the  pupil  consists  of  the  centres  for  the  contraction  of 
the  pupil  (in  corpora  quadrigemina?),  the  centres  for  the 
dilatation  of  the  pupil  (in  the  medulla  and  aqueduct  of 
Sylvius?),  the  third  nerve,  the  cervical  sympathetic  and  the 
circular  and  radiating  (latter  sometimes  absent)  muscular 
fibres  of  the  iris.  Drugs  may  act  either  centrally  or  locally 
on  these  structures.  The  pupil  is  dilated  by  drugs  (1) 
depressing  the  contracting  (oculomotor)  centre,  (2)  the  ter- 
minations of  the  third  nerve  or  (3)  the  circular  fibres  of  the 
iris ;  and  contrariwise,  by  (4)  stimulating  the  dilating  centre, 
(5)  the  terminations  of  the  sympathetic  or  (6)  the  radial 
fibres  of  the  iris ;  and,  finally,  by  a  combination  of  these 
actions. 

Again,  the  pupil  is  contracted  by  drugs  stimulating 
(1)  the  oculomotor  centre,  (2)  the  terminations  of  the  third 
nerve  or  (3)  circular  fibres  of  the  iris  ;  and  by  depressing  (4) 
the  dilating  centre,  (5)  the  terminations  of  the  sympathetic 
or  (6)  the  radial  fibres  of  the  iris  ;  and  also  by  a  combina- 
tion of  these  actions.  Drugs  may  act  locally  on  the  pupil 
through  the  medium  of  the  circulation  as  well  as  when 
dropped  into  the  eye.  Furthermore,  absorption  and  central 
action  may  occur  when  drugs  are  dropped  into  the  eve  as 
well  as  when  entering  the  blood  through  the  more  ordinary 
channels. 

The  drugs  used  in  the  treatment  of  the  diseases  of  the 
eye  are  only  those  acting  locally.  Drugs  influencing  the 
pupil  are  divided  into  two  classes  :  (1)  those  that  contract 
the  pupil  (myotics)  and  (2)  those  that  dilate  the  pupil 
(mydriatics). 


DRUGS  ACTING   ON   THE   NERVOUS   SYSTEM  45 

(1)  Mydriatics. 

(a)  ACTING  LOCALLY. 

Atropine 

Homatropine 

Hyoscyamine      l  Paralyse  third  nerve  terminations 

Hyoscine 

Scopolamine 

Gelsemine  J 

Cocaine  Stimulates  sympathetic  endings. 

(b)    ACTING  CENTRALLY. 

Anae^thetips  (late  in  their  action) 

The  dilating  centre  is  stimulated  by  carbonic  dioxide  in 
the  blood,  and  therefore  dilatation  of  the  pupil  occurs  in 
asphyxia ;  also  after  irritation  of  sensory  nerves,  the  sexual 
organs  and  digestive  apparatus. 

Uses. — Mydriatics  are  useful  in  dilating  the  pupil  for 
examination  of  the  eye,  and  to  prevent  adhesions  of  the  iris 
in  central  corneal  ulcers  ;  in  keratitis,  to  overcome  photo- 
phobia and  bletharospasm ;  and  in  iritis,  to  secure  rest  of 
the  iris  and  ciliary  muscles. 

(2)  Myotics, 

(a)  ACTING  LOCALLY. 

Physostigmine    )  ^  . 

Pilocarpine         j  Stimulate  third  nerve-endmgs 

(b)    ACTING  CENTRALLY. 

Anaesthetics  Opium 

Uses. — Myotics  are  employed  to  prevent  prolapse. of  the 
iris  in  wounds  and  ulcers  of  the  cornea ;  to  antagonize  the 
effect  of  atropine  ;  to  prevent  the  entrance  of  light  in  painful 
disorders  of  the  eye ;  to  lessen  intra-ocular  tension  in 
glaucoma ;  and,  in  alternation  with  mydriatics,  to  break  up 
adhesions  to  the  iris.  All  the  local  mydriatics  and  myotics 
mentioned  above  act  on  the  ciliary  muscle  to  destroy  the 
power  of  accomodation.  Intra-ocular  tension  in  glaucoma 
is  usually  increased  by  atropine  and  other  mydriatics,  but  is 
diminished  by  eserine. 


46  GENERAL  ACTIONS   OF  DRUGS 

v.— Drugs  Acting  on  the  Ear. 

Strychnine  makes  the  hearing  (and  sight)  more  acute ; 
while  salicylic  acid,  salicylates  and  quinine  cause,  in  man, 
subjective  symptoms,  including  fulness,  roaring  and  biizzing 
noises  in  the  ears. 


Drugs  Acting  on  the  Respiratory  Organs. 

It  is  impossible  to  describe  under  this  head  all  the 
drugs  influencing  the  respiratory  tract.  Thus,  agents  affect- 
ing the  circulation  exert  a  powerful  action  on  the  blood 
supply  and  functions  of  the  respiratory  organs.  The  appli- 
cation of  counter-irritants  and  heat  and  cold  externally, 
reflexly  produce  notable  alterations  in  pulmonary  conditions. 
Emetics  are  indirectly  serviceable  in  assisting  the  expulsion 
of  exudations  from  the  upper  air  passages  in  dogs.  Further- 
more, medicines  having  a  depressing  action  on  the  nervous 
system  are  of  importance  in  respiratory  disorders  in  reliev- 
ing cough  and  spasm.  We  shall  consider  here  those  agents 
acting  on  the  respiratory  apparatus  itself. 

•Drugs  Acting  on  the  Respiratory  Mucous  Membrane. 
(A)  Drugs  Acting  Locally. 

1.  Stimulating  the  mucous  membranes  and  causing 
vascular  dilatation,  increased  secretion  and  muscular  con- 
traction of  the  walls. 

2.  Producing  a  sedative  action. 

3.  Exerting  an  antiseptic  influence. 
4  Relaxing  spasm. 

5.  Causing  a  local  astringent  action. 

6.  Thinning  exudations. 

ErrhiiieSf  or  sternuato7ies,  are  drugs  which  are  intro- 
duced into  the  nostrils  to  cause  irritation,  coughing  and 
sneezing  and  expulsion  of  secretions,  parasites  and  foreign 
bodies  from  the  nasal  chambers  and  upper  air  passages. 
They  are  rarely  of  any  value,  and  include  tobacco,  ipecac, 
euphorbium,  ammonia,  chlorine  and  sulphurous  anhydride. 


f 


DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  RESPIRATORY  ORGANS  47 

By  inhalation  (in  pint  of  water  at  temp,  of  140°  F.  or 
over,  unless  otherwise  stated). 

(1)    DRUGS  EXERTING  STIMULANT  ACTION. 

Carbolic  acid gr.  xx. 

Creosote §ss. 

Oil  of  cubebs §ss. 

Tincture  of  benzoin §ss. 

Tincture  of  ipecac iss. 

Oil  of  turpentine 5ss.-5iiss. 

Oil  of  pine 5ss.-3iiss. 

(2)  DRUGS  EXERTING  A  SEDATIVE  INFLUENCE. 

Diluted  hydrocyanic  acid (tti,  x.-xv.  in  5i.  cold  water) 

(3)  DRUGS  PRODUCING  AN  ANTISEPTIC  ACTION. 

Thymol gr.  vii.-xii. 

Carbolic  acid 5i. 

Creosote §8S. 

Compound  tincture  of  benzoin §8S. 

Sulphurous  anhydride  gas. 
Formaldehyde  vapor. 

Oil  of  eucalyptus tti  x.-xx.  (in  |ii.  of  alcohol) . 

Oil  of  cubebs .§8s. 

Oil  of  juniper ...........  .§8S. 

Benzoic  acid .3ix.  (in  §viii.  of  alcohol). 

Tar  water,  undiluted. 

Potassium  permanganate .gr.  xv.-5i. 

Quinine  hydrochlorate 5ss. 

(4)    DRUGS  RELAXING  SPASM. 

Amyl  nitrite H.  (5ss.-i.)  D.  (TTiii,-v.)  undiluted. 

Extract  of  belladonna gr.  ii  -iv. 

"        ' '  hyoscyamus gr.  viii.-xv. 

"        "  conium gr.  viii. 

(Burning  stramonium  leaves). 

(5)  DRUGS  CAUSING  A  LOCAL  ASTRINGENT  ACTION. 

Alum. 3ss. 

Zinc  sulphate 3ss. 

Solution  of  ferric  chloride 31. 

Silver  nitrate 3ss. 

(6)   DRUGS  THINNING  SECRETION. 

Sodium  bicarbonate 3ss. 

Solution  of  lime,  undiluted. 

Ammonium  chloride i 3ss. 

,  .  Vinegar §ii.  - 

Lactic  acid .§i. 


48  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

Uses. — Inhalations  are  often  beneficial  in  the  treatment 
of  coryza,  pharyngitis,  laryngitis,  tracheitis  and  bronchitis. 
In  the  first  stage  of  catarrhal  inflammation  of  the  upper  air 
passages,  antiseptics  may  cut  short  the  attack.  Simple 
steaming  with  vinegar  or  sodium  bicarbonate  moistens  and 
soothes  the  dry,  irritable  mucous  membrane  and  relieves 
congestion  by  promoting  secretion.  In  the  exudative  stage, 
agents  stimulating  the  respiratory  mucous  membrane  and 
making  the  secretions  less  viscid  are  in  order.  If  the  mucous 
or  purulent  discharges  are  excessive,  astringeut  sprays  or 
inhalations  are  useful ;  and  if  they  are  foul-smelling,  drugs 
combining  stimulant  and  antiseptic  actions  may  be  employed. 
Inhalations  may  be  given  by  means  of  a  bronchitis  kettle,  or 
by  atomization,  to  small  animals.  Care  must  be  exercised 
that  too  large  a  quantity  of  the  solution  be  not  used  lest 
absorption  and  poisoning  ensue.  Dogs  may  be  placed  over 
the  perforated  seat  of  a  cane-bottomed  chair  with  the  steam- 
ing apparatus  underneath. 

A  hot  brick  is  sometimes  employed  to  give  inhalations 
to  horses  by  dropping  it  into  a  pail  containing  the  proper 
solution.  The  head  should  not  usually  be  covered  during 
inhalation  if  the  breathing  is  embarrassed  or  the  respiratory 
tract  obstructed,  since  fresh  air  is  imperative.  Simple  steam- 
ing may  be  conducted  for  an  hour.  Inhalations  containing 
special  drugs  may  be  given  for  fifteen  minutes. 

(B)  Drugs  Acting  Systemically. 

Expectorants  are  agents  which  influence  the  bronchial 
mucous  membrane  and  its  secretion.  They  aid  or  hinder 
expectoration  in  man,  but  are  much  less  efficient  in  this 
respect  in  Veterinary  medicine,  because  the  act  of  expector- 
ation is  performed  with  difficulty  by  the  lower  animals. 
Nevertheless,  expectorants  are  useful  in  altering  the  character 
of  the  secretion  and  lessening  the  irritation  caused  by  dry, 
tenacious  discharges,  and  in  stimulating  the  mucous  mem- 
branes and  improving  their  circulation  and  nutrition. 
Moreover,  some  drugs   (volatile  oils)   exert  an  antiseptic 


DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  RESPIRATORY  ORGANS 


49 


action   on  the  bronchial  mucous  membrane  during  their 
elimination. 

Expectorants. 

(1)  INCREASING  SECRETION. 


Depressing  the  heart  and  lower- 
ing vascular  tension,  "De- 
pressing expectorants." 


Stimulating  the  heart  and  in- 
creasing vascular  tension. 
"Stimulating  expectorants." 


Apomorphine 

Potassium  iodide 

Ipecac 

Antimony  and  potassium  tartrate 

Pilocarpine 

Ammonium  chloride 

Squill 

Camphor 

Balsams 

Sulphur 

Tar 

Turpentine 

Terpin  hydrate 

Terebene 

Volatile  oils 

(2)  DIMINISHING  SECRETION. 

Belladonna 

Hyoscyamus 

Stramonium 

Acids 

Opium 

(3)  ALTERING  THE  NUTRITION  OP  BRONCHIAL  MUCOUS  MEMBRANE. 

Potassium  iodide  Cod  liver  oil 

Ammonium  chloride  Sulphur 

(4)  EXERTING  AN  ANTISEPTIC  ACTION. 

Turpentine  Balsam  of  Peru 

Terebene  Balsam  of  Tolu 

Terpin  hydrate  Cubebs 

Tar  Copaiba. 
Ammoniacum 

Z7ses. —Expectorants  are  chiefly  prescribed  in  bronchitis. 
In  the  early  or  dry  stage  drugs  increasing  secretion  and  at 
the  same  time  depressing  the  circulation  are  often  employed 
in  sthenic  cases.  These  drugs  possess  less  value  in  the 
treatment  of  the  horse,  on  account  of  comparative  insuscep- 
tibility to  them,  than  in  the  case  of  dogs. 


50  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OP  DRUGS 

If  exudation  is  excessive,  then  drugs  lessening  secretion 
are  indicated.  When  tbe  disorder  is  persistent,  agents  alter- 
ing and  improving  the  nutrition  of  the  bronchial  mucous 
membrane  are  beneficial.  Bronchitis  accompanied  by  a 
copious  foul  secretion  is  treated  with  volatile  oils,  which 
exert  an  antiseptic  action  on  the  air  passages.  Expectorants 
are  usually  administered  with  other  agents  influencing  the 
respiratory  tract;  e.^.,  drugs  relieving  cough  and  spasm  and 
those  stimulating  the  respiratory  movements  or  circulation. 

Drugs  Stimulating  the  Eespiratory  Centres. 

strychnine  Stramonium 

Atropine  .4Lmmonium  carbonate 

Belladonna  Strong  ammonia 

Hyoscyamus 

External  counter-irritation  and  heat. 

Drugs  Depressing  the  Eesriratgry  Centres. 

Many  drugs  depress  and  paralyze  the  respiratory  centres 
in  large  doses,  but  they  are  seldom  used  medicinally  for 
this  purpose. 

Uses. — Drugs  stimulating  the  respiratory  centres  and 
movements  are  of  great  value  in  diseases  of  the  chest — 
especially  bronchitis — attended  with  obstruction  in  the  air 
passages  and  cyanosis.  They  promote  coughing  and  efforts 
at  expulsion  of  secretion  and  facilitate  the  entrance  of 
oxygen  into  the  blood.  Some,  possibly  ammonia,  stimulate 
the  movements  of  the  cilise  lining  the  tracheal  mucous 
membrane. 

Strychnine  is,  perhaps,  the  most  powerful  respiratory 
stimulant ;  atropine  is  indicated  where  exudation  is  abundant, 
while  ammonium  carbonate  is  prescribed  to  increase  secre- 
tion. 

Drugs  Relaxing  Spasm  of  the  Bronchial  Muscular 
Tunic  and  Relieving  Cough. 


LOCALLY. 

White  of  egg 

Linseed  tea 

Mucilage 

Syrups 

External  counter-irritation  and  heat. 


DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  RESPIRATORY  ORGANS  51 


SYSTEMIC  ALLY. 

Opium 

Nitrites 

Codeine 

Chloral 

Hyoscyamus 

Bromides 

Stramonium 

Chloroform 

Cannabis  Indica 

Phenacetin 

Uses  of  Drugs  Allaying  Spasm  and  Cough. 

Coughing  is  a  reflex  act  following  irritation  of  sensory 
nei-ve  endings  in  any  part  of  the  respiratory  tract  (usually 
of  afferent  vagal  branches),  in  the  pharynx,  pleura,  ears,  teeth, 
stomach  and  liver.  Sensory  impulses  conveyed  to  the 
reflex  centre  for  coughing, — near  the  respiratory  centre  in  the 
medulla, — are  there  transformed  into  motor  impulses  and 
result  in  coughing.  Drugs  may  stop  coughing  by  acting 
locally  to  relieve  congestion  and  irritation  (demulcents)  or 
they  may  exert  a  topical  sedative  action  on  the  nerve  end- 
ings. They  also  act  systemically  by  quieting  the  reflex  centre 
for  coughing,  or  the  sensory  or  motor  nerve  endings ;  also 
by  abating  congestion  in  promoting  secretion  (expectorants), 
or  in  influencing  the  circulation. 

Cough  may  be  beneficial  when  it  assists  the  expulsion 
of  exudation,  but  is  not  so  when  it  is  constant  and  ineffective, 
as  in  congestion  of  the  trachea,  bronchial  mucous  mem- 
branes, lungs  or  pleura ;  in  pulmonary  consolidation ;  and 
in  coughs  originating  outside  of  the  respiratory  tract.  We 
should  try  to  arrest  coughing  by  agents  removing  the  cause 
(congestion  or  irritation),  such  as  counter-irritants,  expector- 
ants, local  applications  (sprays,  inhalations)  and  heart 
stimulants;  but  if  these  are  inefficient  and  coughing  is 
immoderate,  we  may  resort  to  the  use  of  sedative  agents. 
Some  preparation  of  opium  is  most  frequently  employed  to 
stop  coughing,  but  should  be  avoided  if  cyanosis  exists, 
since  inspiratory  and  expulsive  efforts  are  weakened  by  th^ 
drug.  Belladonna,  on  the  other  hand,  stimulates  the  respi- 
ratory centres  and  arrests  cough  by  depressing  both  the 
afferent  and  efferent  vagal  terminations  in  the  lungs,  while — 
like  opium — lessening  secretion.      These   drugs   are  often 


52  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRroS 

combined.  When  spasm  of  the  bronchioles  exists,  as  in 
asthma,  and  sometimes  in  bronchitis,  the  nitrites  are  partic- 
ularly valuable. 


Drugs  Acting  on  the  Urinary  Organs. 

Diuretics  are  drugs  increasing  the  secretion  of  urine. 
Three  factors  are  concerned  with  the  urinary  flow.  (1)  The 
composition  of  the  blood.  (2)  The  state  of  local  (renal) 
and  general  blood  pressure.  (3)  The  activity  of  the 
renal  cells.  The  renal  mechanism  influenced  by  drugs  com- 
prises : 

(1)  The  mcdpighian  glomerideSy  which  excrete  water,  salts 
and  some  excrementitious  matters  from  the  blood  by 
osmosis.  Their  activity  depends  upon  their  blood  supply, 
which  is  increased  by  agents  causing  dilatation  of  their 
afferent  vessels,  or  contraction  of  the  efferent  vessels ;  and 
by  drugs  increasing  general  blood  tension.  Drugs  aug- 
menting the  mass  of  blood  and  tension  in  the  malpighian 
bodies  enlarge  the  surface  of  cubical  epithelium  covering 
the  capillary  loops  and  promote  osmosis  of  fluid  into  the 
cavity  of  the  malpighian  capsule. 

(2)  The  nucleated  polyliedrol  cells  lining  the  convoluted  tubes, 
—These  secrete  the  solid  products  resulting  from  the  retro- 
grade metamorphosis  of  nitrogenous  bodies  circulating  in 
the  blood,  as  urea,  together  with  water. 

(3)  The  constricted  tubes. — These  regulate  the  urinary 
secretion  by  either  impeding  its  passage  by  constriction  of 
their  walls,  thus  aiding  absorption,  or  by  their  active 
peristalsis  facilitating  the  flow  of  urine. 

(4)  Nervous  mechanism, — This  governs  the  secretory 
activity  of  the  cells  of  the  convoluted  tubes,  regulates  the 
tension  in  the  vessels  of  the  malpighian  bodies,  and  possibly 
controls  the  unstriped  muscle  of  the  constricted  tubes.  It 
comprises : 


DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  URINARY  ORGANS  53 

(a)  Four  medullary  centres. 

Vasomotor  |  Vasodilator  centres 

(controlling  renal  vessels)  f  Vasoconstrictor  centres 

Secretory  (Stimulating  cells  o£  convoluted  tubes) 

Inhibitory  (Depressing  activity  of  renal  cells) 

(b)  Subsidiary  centres  in  the  spinal  cord,  solar  and  renal  plexus. 

(c)  Secretory  nerve-endings  in  kidneys. 

(d)  Muscular  fibre  in  renal  vessels. 

(e)  Renal  cells. 

These  structures  may  be  either  stimulated  or  depressed, 
or  the  same  drug  may  cause  diuresis  in  various  ways  by  a 
combination  of  actions. 

Diuretics  more  commonly  act  in  two  ways.  (1)  By 
influencing  renal  circulation ;  (2)  by  stimulating  the  secre- 
tory nerve-endings  in  the  renal  cells  or  the  cells  them- 
selves. 

(1)  Diuretics  increasing  general  or  local  {renal)  blood  tension. 

These  drugs  stimulate  or  depress  the  vasomotor  centres, 
or  the  terminations  of  the  vasoconstrictors  or  dilators  in  the 
renal  vessels — to  cause  dilatation  of  the  branches  of  the 
renal  artery  carrying  blood  to  the  capillary  loops  in  the 
malpighian  bodies,  or  to  produce  contraction  of  the  arterial 
branches  conducting  blood  away  from  the  malpighian  tufts ; 
— in  either  way  increasing  local  blood  tension  and  secretion 
of  urine. 

Local  blood  tension  is  thought  to  be  augmented  by  the 
nitrites  and  alcohol  acting  on  the  vasomotor  centre  or  renal 
vessels  to  dilate  the  afferent  vessels  of  the  malpighian 
glomerules.  Buchu,  turpentine,  juniper  and  cantharides 
are  said  to  act  locally  on  the  kidneys  to  contract  the  efferent 
vessels  of  the  malpighian  bodies.  Digitalis,  strophanthus, 
squill,  caffeine  and  strychnine  stimulate  the  heart  and 
contract  the  vessels  generally,  while  locally  they  are  believed 
to  cause  contraction  of  the  efferent  vessels  of  the  malpighian 
bodies  by  action  on  the  vasomotor  centres.  The  entrance 
of  water  into  the  circulation  increases  the  mass  of  blood, 
vascular  tension  and  thus  the  flow  of  urine. 


54  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

(2)  Diuretics  stimulating  the  secretory  nerve'endings  or 

renal  cells. 

Potassium  nitrate  Colchicum 

"          acetate  Calomel 

* '          citrate  Urea 

"          bitartrate  Theobromine  sodio-salicylate 

Lithium  salts  (Diuretin) 
Salines  generally       . 

Uses. — Diuretics  are  useful  in  removing  deleterious  and 
waste  solid  matters  in  the  blood  resulting  from  disease  or 
the  imperfect  oxidation  of  albuminoid  substances.  In  fevers 
the  potassium  nitrate  and  other  potassium  salts  are  employed 
with  spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  alcohol  and  digitalis.  They  are 
antipyretics  by  eliminating  pyrogenio  material.  Tissue 
waste  is  increased  by  diuretics,  and  they  are  serviceable  in 
plethora,  rheumatism  and  obesity.  In  acute  diseases  of  the 
kidneys,  salines  and  digitalis  are  indicated  ;  in  chronic  renal 
disorders  more  stimulating  agents  are  often  used,  as  juniper, 
buchu,  etc.  Diuretics  remove  water  from  the  system.  They 
are,  therefore,  employed  in  oedema  and  dropsy  of  renal  or 
cardiac  origin,  and  in  chronic  effusions,  as  in  pleuritis  and 
pericarditis.  Blood  tension  is  lowered  by  withdrawal  of 
water  from  the  blood,  and  congestion  may  be  relieved  in 
various  parts  of  the  body.  Diuretics  lessen  irritation  of  the 
kidneys  by  diluting  the  urine  when  the  secretion  is  concen- 
trated or  contains  toxins  or  other  irritants  (uric  acid,  calcium 
oxalate,  etc.).  Finally,  stimulating  diuretics  (buchu,  turpen- 
tine, etc.),  are  indicated  in  chronic  inflammatory  diseases  of 
the  kidneys  and  bladder,  and  in  relaxed  and  paretic  disorders 
of  the  bladder  (incontinence  of  urine)  to  excite  the  reflex 
and  motor  functions  of  the  sphincter  and  detrusor  muscles. 

Drugs  Influencing  the  Eeaction  of  Urine. 

In  man  and  animals  secreting  an  acid  urine,  the  basic 
phosphates  of  sodium  and  potassium  in  the  blood  are' 
decomposed  by  the  renal  cells,  and  acid  phosphate  of  sodium 
or  potassium — being  more  diffusible — are  eliminated,  giving 
the  urine  its  characteristic  reaction,  while  the  bases  remain 


DRUGS   ACTING   ON   THE   URINARY   ORGANS  55 

behind.  In  the  case  of  the  herbivora  the  urine  is  alkaline, 
because  there  are  larger  quantities  of  magnesium  and 
calcium  salts  in  the  food,  which  precipitate  phosphoric  acid 
in  the  stomach,  and  because  there  is  an  excess  of  alkaline 
sodium  and  potassium  salts  in  the  blood.  The  urine  may 
best  be  made  acid  by  benzoic  acid,  which  is  converted  into 
hippuric  acid  during  its  passage  through  the  kidneys. 
Salicylic  acid,  the  mineral  acids  (except  nitric  acid),  and 
large  quantities  of  the  vegetable  acids  tend  to  acidify  the 
urine  in  a  less  degree.  An  acid  urine  may  be  made  alkaline 
by  alkalies,  as  salts  of  potassium,  lithium,  sodium  and 
calcium,  together  with  the  vegetable  salts,  tartrates,  citrates 
and  acetates,  which  circulate  as  carbonates  in  the  blood. 
Drugs  promoting  diuresis  make  the  urine  less  acid  because 
the  basic  sodium  phosphate  in  the  blood  is  not*  so  readily 
broken  up  in  the  kidney  when  it  diffuses  through  the  cells 
in  great  dilution.  Nitric  acid  renders  the  urine  slightly 
alkaline  by  being  converted  into  and  eliminated  as  ammonia, 
while  ammonia  fails  to  make  the  urine  alkaline  because  it  is 
transformed  into  urea,  uric  and  nitric  acids  (?). 

Uses. — Benzoic  acid  is  sometimes  of  benefit  in  acidifying 
and  disinfecting  an  alkaline  decomposing  urine  of  pyelitis 
or  cystitis.*  The  alkalies  are  thought  to  be  useful  in 
alkalizing  the  blood  in  certain  disorders  (rheumatism, 
haemoglobinsemia,  etc.),  and  the  urine  of  carnivora,  to  prevent 
the  precipitation  of  uric  acid  in  the  urine  or  to  aid  its  solu- 
tion when  already  precipitated. 

Drugs  Influencing  the  Composition  of  Urine. 

Drugs  contracting  efferent  vessels  of  the  malpighian 
bodies  diminish  the  flow  of  blood  and  urea-excretion  and 
increase  the  elimination  of  water ;  while  those  dilating  the 
afferent  vessels  cause  more  blood  to  pass  through  the  kidney 
and  promote  the  secretion  of  solids  and  water.  Drugs 
stimulating  the  cells  of  the  convoluted  tabes  augment 
especially  the  urinary  solids.     The  composition  of  the  urine 

*  Recently  urotropin  has  been  used  more  successfully  for  these  purposes. 


56  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

is  also  altered  by  most  drugs  eliminated  in  it,  leading  to 
changes  in  color,  odor,  reaction  and  the  appearance  of  blood 
pigment,  etc. 

Urinary  Antiseptics. 

Certain  drugs  are  sometimes  given  with  the  purpose  of 
preventing  decomposition  of  the  urine  in  purulent  pyelitis 
and  cystitis.     Among  these  are  : 

Benzoic  acid  Copaiba 

Boric  acid  Cubebs 

Salicylic  acid  Volatile  oils 

Salol  '  Urotropin 

Buchu 

Urinary  Sedatives. 

The  foregoing  list,  in  preventing  decomposition,  and : . 
Hyoscyamus  Opium 

Belladonna  Alkalies  (with  an  acid  urine) 


Drugs  Acting  on  the  Sexual  Organs. 

(A)  Infuencing  Chiefly  the  Male  Generative  Organs. 

The  mechanism  concerned  with  the  sexual  functions  is 
presided  over  by  cerebral  and  spinal  lumbar  centres.  Agents 
may  immediately  excite  the  spinal  centres  or  cause  local 
irritation  of  sensory  nerves  in  various  parts  of  the  body — 
more  particularly  in  the  neighborhood  of  the  genital  organs 
— and  thus  reflexly  stimulate  the  lumbar  centres. 

The  cerebral  centres  are  mainly  affected  by  visual,  nasal 
or  oral  impressions,  and  also  reflexly  by  irritation  of  sensory 
nerve-endings,  more  especially  those  situated  in  the  sexual 
organs. 

(1)  Aphrodisiacs  are  drugs  exciting  sexual  desire  (and 
increasing  sexual  power  in  the  male).     They  include  : 

DIRECT  APHRODISIACS. 

Strychnine  ^ 

Phosphorus  >•  ^ct  on  centres 

Alcohol  3 

Cantharides  Local  irritant 


k 


i 

DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  SEXUAL  ORGANS  .     57 

INDIRECT  APHRODISIACS- 

Iron  ^ 

Strychnine  !  ^     ,  ,  .,.. 

Arsenic  In  debility 

(Full  diet)  J 

(2)  Anaphrodisiacs  are  drugs  lessen ing  sexual  desire. 
They  are  : 

Opium  Nauseants 

Bromides  (Bleeding) 

Purgatives  (Spare  diet) 

Uses. — Drugs  directly  exciting  sexual  appetite  are  of  no 
therapeutic  value,  and  the  local  irritants,  as  cantharides, 
are,  moreover,  likely  to  work  harm  by  producing  inflamma- 
tion of  the  urinary  tract.  Loss  of  sexuaT  desire  and  power 
should  usually  be  treated  by  improving  the  general  nutrition 
with  tonics  and  good  feeding  and  by  regulating  the  use  of 
the  sexual  organs,  unless  the  trouble  is  due  to  organic 
disease.  Drugs  diminishing  sexual  appetite  may  be  useful 
in  quieting  the  centres  and  rendering  them  less  sensitive  to 
sources  of  local  irritation.  It  is,  however,  more  sensible  to 
remove  the  cause  of  irritation,  as  smegma  preputii,  acid 
urine,  urinary  calculi,  intestinal  parasites,  scybala,  fissure  of 
the  rectum,  haemorrhoids,  etc.  Anaphrodisiacs  may  be 
employed  to  subdue  excessive  sexual  excitement  and  ner- 
vousness (hysteria)  sometimes  accompanying,  "  heat "  in 
the  female. 

(B)  Influencing  the  female  sexual  organs, 

(1)  Emmenagogues  are  drugs  which  favor  the  occurrence 
of  "  heat "  (ovulation)  in  the  female  when  it  is  irregular  or 
abnormally  absent.  We  are  at  present  ignorant  of  their 
exact  mode  of  action.  Some  act  directly,  perhaps,  by  stim- 
ulating the  centres  or  uterus. 

DIRECT  EMMENAGOGUES. 

Savin  ^ 

Rue  Y  Irritants 

Cantharides  ) 

Ergot 


58      .  GENERAL  ACTIONS   OF  DRUGS 

INDIRECT    EMMENAGOGUES. 

Purgatives  (Aloes) 

Iron  ^ 

Arsenic 

Strychnine  Mn  debiUty     . 

Full  diet  J 

Uses. — The  irrit^vnt  emmenagogues  are  usually  ineffectual 
in  medicinal  doses,  while  they  may  cause  inflammation  of 
the  urinary  tract  and  abortion  (in  pregnant  animals)  in  large 
doses.  The  use  of  the  indirect  emmenagogues  is  more 
rational  and  effective.  Aloes  is  thought  to  stimulate  the 
uterus  reflexly  by  irritation  of  the  large  intestines,  and  may 
also  act  locally  on  the  uterus  after  absorption.  Absence  of 
oestrum,  ordinarily  a  symptom  resulting  from  a  general  or 
local  condition,  should  be  treated  if  possible  by  removing^ 
the  cause  (debility,  plethora,  deformity). 

(2)  FcbdlicSf  or  oxytocics^  are  drugs  stimulating  uterine 
contraction  during  or  directly  after  parturition.  The  exact 
physiological  details  concerned  in  this  action  are  unknown. 
They  are  : 

Ergot  Quinine 

Cotton  root  bark  Hydrastis 

Corn  smut  Savin  ^ 

(3)  Drugs  restraining  uterine  contractions. 

Anaesthetics  Chloral 

Opium  ,  Bromides 

Cannabis  Indica 

Uses. — Ecbollics  (preeminently  ergot)  are  used  to  con- 
tract the  uterus  and  arrest  haemorrhage  after  parturition ; 
or  to  stimulate  the  womb  during  parturition  in  inertia.  In 
poisonous  doses  they  may  lead  to  abortion  during  pregnancy. 
Drugs  restraining  uterine  contraction  (especially  opium) 
are  sometimes  given  to  prevent  threatened  abortion. 

(4)  Drugs  influencing  milk-secretion. 

(a)  Galactagogues  are  drugs  increasing  the  flow  of  milk. 
They  include  : 

Pilocarpine  Leaves  of  castor  oil  plant  (inter- 

Alcohol  nally   or  locally    on    udder   as 

(Full  diet)  poultice). 


DRUGS  INFLUENCING  METABOLISM  59 

Drug  treatment  is  ineffective  in  increasing  the  secretion 
of  milk  ;  rich  feeding  is  the  chief  desideratum.  Many  drugs 
are  eliminated  in  milk  and  may  produce  their  characteristic 
effects  in  animals  or  man  drinking  it.     Among  these  are  : 


Opium 

Arsenic 

All  volatile  oils 

Mercury 

Purgative  salts 

Lead 

Rhubarb 

Zinc 

Senna 

Iron 

Castor  oil 

Bismuth 

Scammony 

Neutral  salt« 

Iodine 

Ammonia 

Potassium  iodide 

Acids 

Antimony 

Sulphur 

(b)  Antigaladagogues. — Belladonna  is  the  only  efficient 
drug  lessening  the  secretion  of  milk,  applied  locally  or  given 
internally.  It  paralyzes  the  peripheral  secretory  nerve- 
endings  and  is  useful  in  mammitis  by  diminishing  the  circu- 
latory activity  in  the  mammary  gland. 


Drugs  Influencing  Metabolism. 

(1)  Alteratives, — The  term  "  alterative  "  is  a  vague,  inde- 
finable word  used  to  describe  the  action  of  certain  drugs, 
modifying  tissue  change  and  improving  nutrition  in  some 
disorders,  which  cannot  easily  be  classified  under  other 
heads.  It  is  impossible  here  to  recount  the  actions  of 
alteratives,  because  they  probably  act  in  various  ways,  and 
because  we  are  generally  ignorant  of  their  actions.  The 
value  of  alteratives  has  been  discovered  by  clinical  expe- 
rience.    The  following  are  often  classed  as  alteratives  : 

Arsenic  and  its  preparations  Phosphoric  acid 

Mercury  and  its  salts  Colchicum 

Iodine  and  its  salts  Sarsaparilla 

Cod  liver  oil  Sulphur 

Uses. — Alteratives  are  employed  in  those  diseases  in 
which  experience  has  proved  them  beneficial. 


60  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

Tonics. — The  word  "  tonic  "  is  another  term  even  more 
vague  and  all-embracing  than  "  alterative,"  and,  therefore, 
more  difficult  to  accurately  define.  Tonics  improve  the 
general  nutrition  and  health,  and,  as  ordinarily  understood, 
refer  to  drugs  promoting  appetite  and  digestion  (bitter 
tonics,  as  gentian) ;  the  state  of  the  blood  (hsematinics,  as 
iron  and  arsenic) ;  or  the  condition  of  certain  organs  (heart 
tonics,  as  digitalis ;  nerve  tonics,  as  strychnine). 

Tonics  are  indicated  in  the  treatment  of  debility  (gen- 
eral or  special)  and  anaemia. 


Drugs  Influencing:  Bodily  Heat. 

Antipyretics  are  drugs  lowering  the  temperature  of  the 
body  in  fever.  The  mechanism  concerned  with  temperature 
changes  is  as  follows  : 

(1)  Heat  production. — There  is  a  centre  in  the  corpus 
^  striatum  for  heat  production.     Probably  this  controls  mus- 
cular activity,  which  is  chiefly  instrumental  in  the  production 
of  bodily  heat. 

(2)  Heat  loss. — There  is  a  centre  for  heat  dissipation 
situated  in  the  medulla.  This  controls  the  vasomotors  and 
state  of  vascular  tension  ;  the  activity  of  the  sweat  glands 
and  respiration ;  and,  therefore,  the  amount  of  heat  lost  by 
radiation  from  the  blood  vessels  of  the  skin,  by  evaporation 
of  sweat,  and  by  the  act  of  respiration.  Heat  is  also  lost 
by  the  passage  of  faeces  and  urine. 

(3)  Heat  regulation. — There  are  heat-regulating  centres 
in  the  cortex  cerebri  (?)  which  coordinate  or  adjust  the 
relations  existing  between  the  heat-producing  and  heat- 
dissipating  centres. 

Finally,  the  bodily  temperature  is  reflexly  influenced  by 
sensory  impulses  originating  in  various  parts  of  the  body, 
and  conveyed  by  afferent  nerves  to  the  three  brain-centres 
controlling  temperature.  Agents  lowering  bodily  tempera- 
ture in  fever  may  act  to  depress  the  heat-producing  centre  ; 
to  stimulate  the  heat-dissipating  centre  ;  to  dilate  vessels ; 


DRUGS   INFLUENCING  BODILY   HEAT 


61 


to  increase  the  secretions  (particularly  of  sweat) ;  to  influence 
the  circulation  by  drugs  or  venesection;  to  physically 
abstract  heat,  and  to  remove  sources  of  fever  in  the  digestive 
tract. 

TABLE   SHOWING  THE   PROBABLE   MODE   OF  ACTION   OF 

ANTIPYRETICS. 

Phenacetin 
Antipyrin 
Acetanilid 
Quinine 
Salicylic  acid 
Salic  in 


Lessen    heat 
duction 


Depress   heat-produc- 
ing centre 


pro-  ■{ 


^  Influence  circulation 


Slightly  stimulate 
heat-dissipating 
centre 


I  Cause    sweating    and 
.  Increase  heat  loss    ■{      dilate  vessels 


Abstract  heat 


Aconite 

Veratrum 

Digitalis 

Antimony 

Venesection 

Acetanilid 
Antipyrin 
Phenacetin 

'  Alcohol 

Spirit    of    nitrous 
ether 

Opium 
^  Ipecac 

Cold,  externally 
and  internally 


I  Purgatives  (remove 
pyrogenic  material) 

Antipyretics  do  not  lower  temperature  in  health  when 
given  in  medicinal  doses. 

Uses. — Antipyretics  are  employed  to  diminish  fever.  It 
is  wiser  to  lessen  heat  production  than  to  increase  heat  loss 
(by  diarphoretics,  diuretics,  circulatory  depressants,  bleed- 
ing, etc.),  because  heat  production  is  stimulated  by  the  latter 
process.  The  modern  antipyretics  (acetanilid,  antipyrin 
and  phenacetin)  act  chiefly  to  lessen  heat  production,  and 
are,  therefore,  most  serviceable,  but  even  these  drugs  should 
usually  be  avoided  unless  fever  is  exceedingly  high  or  long- 
continued.  This  follows  because  a  high  bodily  temperature 
is  often  inimical  to  bacterial  life  and  growth,  and  because 


62  GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  DRUGS 

fever  is  a  natural  protective  agency,  being  the  result  of 
increased  oxidation,  and  destroys  toxins  and  pyrogenic  sub- 
stances. Acetanilid,  antipyrin  and  phenacetin,  moreover, 
depress  the  circulation  in  large  doses  and  alter  the  red 
corpuscles  so  as  to  interfere  with  their  oxygen-carrying 
functions.  Cold  is  the  best  antipyretic  agency  when  it 
can  be  employed,  in  not  only  reducing  temperature  and  in-, 
creasing  the  elimination  of  toxins  in  the  urine,  but  in 
powerfully  stimulating  the  nervous  system  and  vital  func- 
tions.    (See  p.  673.) 


Drugs  Acting  on  the  Skin. 

(A)  Drugs  Influencing  the  Blood  Vessels  of  the  Skin. 

(1)  Lodolly  dilating  superficial  vessels. 

mRTTANTH  OR  COUNTER-IRRITANTS. 

Cantharides  Corrosive  mercuric  chloride 

Iodine  Arsenous  acid 

Mustard  Silver  nitrate 

Capsicum  Zinc  chloride 

Croton  oil  Carbolic  acid 

Oil  of  turpentine  and  other         Mineral  acids 

volatile  oils  Caustic  alkalies 

Ammonia  water  Anaesthetics  and  alcohol(wheneva- 
Camphor  poration  is  prevented) 

Red  mercuric  iodide  (Heat) 

Drugs  are  classified  as  follows,  according  to  the  degree 
of  irritation  they  produce  : 

Buhefadents  are  drugs  which  cause  vascular  dilatation 
and  redness  of  the  skin  when  locally  applied,  such  as  mus- 
tard and  iodine  (and  heat). 

Vesicants  are  drugs  producing  inflammation  of  the  skin 
and  exudation  of  serum  under  the  epidermis  (vesicles), 
when  locally  applied,  such  as  cantharides. 

Pustvlants  are  drugs  inducing  a  still  higher  grade  of 
inflammation  when  locally  applied,  accompanied  by  migra- 
tion of  leucocytes  from  the  vessels  into  the  vesicles,  forming 
pustules. 


DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  SKIN  63 

Caustics f  or  Eschar otics,  are  agents  which,  when  locally 
applied,  lead  to  so  great  a  degree  of  irritation  that  the 
vitality  of  tissues  is  destroyed,  e.^.,  nitric  acid,  caustic  potash 
and  the  white-hot  iron. 

Uses. — Irritants  are  often  called  counter-irritants  when 
they  are  used  against  (counter)  existing  irritation  or  inflam- 
mation by  reflexly  causing  contraction  of  vessels  in  congested 
or  inflamed  underlying  parts.  Thus  a  blister  on  the  chest 
leads  to  contraction  of  the  vessels  in  the  inflamed  pleura 
and  relieves  pleuritis.  Counter-irritants  are,  therefore, 
employed  locally  to  overcome  internal  congestion  and 
inflammation.  Rubefacients  are  often  applied  over  the 
whole  surface  of  the  body  (mustard  and  turpentine)  to  dilate 
superficial  vessels  and  equalize  the  circulation  in  colds, 
chills  and  internal  congestions.  Vesicants  are  used  to  alter 
the  circulation  and  nutrition  of  adjacent  parts  and  to  secure 
resolution  and  absorption  of  inflammatory  products  in  joint 
and  periosteal  disorders.  (For  details  see  Counter-irritants, 
p.  665.) 

(2)  Locally  contracting  superficial  vessels. 

Astringents  are  drugs  which,  when  locally  applied,  make 
the  tissues  drier  and  denser  and  lessen  secretions.  Their 
action  is  probably  dependent  on  various  factors  :  partial 
coagulation  of  the  albuminous  fluids  of  the  tissues  ;  coagu- 
lation of  morbid  secretions ;  removal  of  water ;  and  contrac- 
tion of  the  muscular  coat  of  the  blood  vessels.  They  are 
local  irritants  with  the  exception  of  lead  acetate  and  bismuth 
salts.     The  astringents  are : 


Tannic  acid,  and  drugs  contain- 
ing it 
Hydrastis 
Salts  Cocaine 

Antipyrin 

Ether  |  On  evapora- 

Methylene  chloride    f    tion 


Lead 

Aluminum 

Zinc 

Silver 

Copper 

Ferric 

Bismuth 

Hamamelis  (Cold) 

Styptics,  or  Hcemostatics,  are  drugs  which  arrest  hsemor- 


64  GENERAL  ACTIONS   OF  DRUGS 

rhage,  when  locally  applied,  both  by  coagulation  of  albumin 
of  the  blood  and  by  direct  contraction  of  the  vessels  and 
tissues  surrounding  them.  The  solutions  of  ferric  alum, 
ferric  chloride  and  subsulphate  are  the  most  powerful  styp- 
tics, although  all  astringents  possess  an  haemostatic  action. 

Uses. — Astringents  are  employed  in  local  loss  of  tone 
and  relaxation  of  tissues  accompanied  by  serous,  mucous  or 
purulent  exudation  from  mucous  membranes  or  raw  surfaces. 
The  irritating  astringents  are  usually  contra-indicated  in 
acute  inflammatory  conditions,  but  are  thought  to  prevent 
the  out-wandering  of  leucocytes  through  the  blood  vessels, 
which  results  in  purulent  exudation. 

Styptics  are  employed  in  the  treatment  of  haemorrhage 
from  mucous  membranes,  or  in  bleeding  from  other  parts 
which  cannot  be  stopped  by  surgical  means,  heat  or  cold. 
The  coagulated  blood  is  prone  to  sepsis,  speedy  decomposi- 
tion and  infection. 

(B)  Drugs  Locally  Softening,  Soothing  and  Protecting 
THE  Skin,  or  Emollients. 


They  include 

: 

Lard 

Olive  oil 

Petrolatum 

Cottonseed  oil 

Cacao  butter 

Lanolin 

(Fomentation  s— Poultices) 

Demulcents  are  drugs  exerting  a  soothing,  protecting  and 
softening  influence  on  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  aliment- 
ary canal,  when  given  internally.  They  are  mostly  gums, 
syrups  and  albuminous  fluids,  as : 


Acacia 

Glycerin 

Linseed  infusion  or  tea 

White  of  egg 

Liquorice 

Milk 

Syrup 

Starch 

Molasses 

Sweet  oil 

Honey 

Uses. — Emollients  are  serviceable  in  softening  the  skin 
when  it  has   a   tendency  to  be   dry  and   fissured ;  also  in 


DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  SKIN  65 

chafing  and  superficial  inflammation  when  emollients  protect 
the  skin  from  the  natural  irritation  of  the  air. 

Demulcents  are  of  value  in  inflammation  of  the  mucous 
membrane  of  the  digestive  tract,  and  again  in  catarrh  of  the 
mucous  membrane  of  the  upper  respiratory  tract,  because 
they  not  only  exert  a  direct  sedative  influence  on  the  throat, 
but,  either  reflexly  or  in  some  measure  directly,  act  on  the 
bronchial  tubes.  Demulcents  are  often  employed  to  relieve 
irritation  in  the  urinary  tract,  but  it  is  difficult  to  understand 
how  they  can  there  exert  a  demulcent  influence  after  their 
decomposition  in  the  alimentary  canal  and  absorption  into 
the  blood,  since  they  have  never  been  found  in  that  fluid  or 
in  the  secretions. 

(C)  Drugs  Influencing  the  Secretion  of  Sweat. 

The  mechanism  controlling  the  sudoriparous  glands  and 
secretion  of  sweat,  comprises  sweat  centres  in  the  spinal 
cord  ;  secretory  nerves  proceeding  from  them  with  termina- 
tions in  the  glands  ;  the  gland  cells,  and  blood  vessels  of 
the  skin.  Any  portion  of  this  mechanism  may  be  affected 
by  drugs  to  increase  or  diminish  sweat  secretion. 

(1)  Drugs  increasing  the  secretion  of  sweat,  or  diarphoretics. 
They  may  : 

(1)  Stimulate  the  sweat  centres. 

(2)  Excite  the  secretory  nerve-endings  in  the  glands. 

(3)  Increase  the  activity  of  the  gland  cells. 

(4)  Stimulate  the  vasodilators  and  increase  the  vascu- 
larity of  the  skin.  Stimulation  of  the  secretory  and  vasodi- 
lator nerves  usually  go  hand  in  hand,  since  they  accompany 
each  other  in  their  course  to  the  sweat  glands. 


DIARPHORETICS. 


Pilocarpine 

Alcohol 

Spirit  of  nitrous  ether 

Heart  stimulants 

External  heat 

(Warm  drinks) 


Pilocarpine  stimulates  the  gland 
cells,  or  secretory  nerve-endings. 
The  others  act  indirectly  by  pro- 
moting the  vascularity  of  the 
skin,  and  thus  the  activity  of 
the  sweat  glands. 


GENERAL  ACTIONS  OF  PBUGS 


Antimony  salts 

Solution  of  ammonium  acetate 

Opium 

Camphor 

Ipecac 

Potassium  acetate 

Potassium  citrate 


Stimulate  sweat  centres 


.  Action  unknown 


(2)  Drugs  diminishing  the  secretion  of  sweaty  or  anhidrotics. 
They  may  depress  the  various  parts  of  the  mechanism 
which  are  stimulated  by  diarphoretics.     They  are  : 


Atropine 
Belladonna 
Hyoscyamus 
Stramonium 
(Ckjld  externally) 


Paralyze  sec- 
retory nerve- 
endings. 


Acids 
Zinc  salts 
Nux  vomica 
Qainine 
Salicylic  acid 


,  Action  unde- 
termined 


Uses. — There  are  two  indications  for  the  use  of  diarpho- 
retics. First,  to  bring  blood  to  the  surface  and  to  cause 
sweating,  thus  equalizing  the  circulation  in  "  colds,"  chills 
and  congestions  and  reducing  temperature  in  fever  by 
evaporation  and  radiation  of  heat  from  the  skin.  Ammonium 
acetate,  alcohol  and  spirit  of  nitrous  ether  are  commonly 
used  in  the  treatment  of  the  disorders  first  noted,  but 
acetanilid  and  phenacetin  are  more  powerful  antipyretics. 
Second,  to  eliminate  morbid  material  from  the  blood  in 
failure  of  the  kidneys,  as  urinary  suppression,  or  uraemia. 
These  conditions  are  comparatively  rare  in  veterinary  prac- 
tice. The  skin  of  the  lower  animals  generally  is  much  less 
responsive  to  diarphoretics  than  that  of  man,  while  horses 
and  cattle  are  more  susceptible  to  these  agents  than  dogs, 
cats  or  pigs. 

A  warm  covering  and  atmosphere  assist  the  dilation  of 
the  peripheral  vessels  and  activity  of  the  gland  cells  and 
should  always  be  secured  to  aid  diarphoresis.  Anhidrotics 
are  of  little  service  in  veterinary  medicine.  Excessive 
sweating  is  usually  a  sign  of  debility  and  is  remedied  by 
rest,  tonics  and  good  feeding. 


DRUGS  WHICH  DESTROY  MICRO-ORGANISMS  AND  PARASITES     67 

Drugs  Which  Destroy  Microorganisms  and 
Parasites. 

(1)  Disinfectants  or  Germicides  are  agents  which  destroy 
the  microorganisms  causing  infectious  and  contagious 
diseases,  fermentation  and  putrefaction.     Examples  : 

Corrosive  mercuric  chloride  Sulphurous  acid 

Carbolic  acid  Chlorine 

Lime  Heat 
Chlorinated  lime 

(2)  Antiseptics  are  agents  which  prevent  the  growth  and 
development  of  the  microorganisms  occasioning  fermenta- 
tion, putrefaction  and  disease ;  more  especially  the  micro- 
cocci producing  suppuration.  Those  used  externally  for 
surgical  purposes  are  : 


Corrosive  sublimate 

Iodoform 

Carbolic  acid 

Salicylic  acid 

Creolin 

Aristol 

Hydrogen  dioxide 

lodol 

Potassium  permanganate 

Boric  acid 

Zinc  chloride 

Antiseptics  which  are  given 

internally : 

Naphtol 

Bismuth  salicylate 

Salol 

subnitrate 

Creolin 

Quinine 

Carbolic  acid 

Volatile  oils  and  others 

Deodorants,  or  Deodorizers,  are  agents  which  destroy  or 
•counteract  a  foul  odor.  Those  possessing  any  real  value 
are  also  disinfectants  and  antiseptics,  and  remove  the  source 
of  the  odor. 

(For  further  details  see  special  article  on  disinfectants, 
antiseptics  and  deodorants,  p.  686.) 

Anthelmintics  or  Vermicides  are  drugs  which  kill  intestinal 
worms,  as  the  various  species  of  taenia  (tape  worm) ;  of 
ascaris  (round  worm),  and  oxyuris  (thread,  seat  or  whip 
worm),  inhabiting  the  alimentary  canal  of  the  domestic 
animals. 


68  GENERAL  ACTIONS   OF  DRUGS 

Anthelmintics  inimical  to  tcenia  are  : 

Aspidium  (horse  and  dog)  Calomel 

Oil  of  turpentine  Arsenic 

Kousso  Aloes 


Aloes  1  A  "fi  •  1  * 

Areca  nut  (sheep  and  lambs)      Linseed,  cotton-  1      of^^ead^naS^ 
Pumpkin  seed  seed  or  castor  J     ^.^^^ 

Anthelmintics  destroying  ascarides: 


.  Tonics 


HORSES. 

Creolin  Iron 

Aloes  Gentian 

Oil  of  tmpentine  Arsenic 

.   Arsenic  Copper  sulphate 
Calomel 

DOGS. 

Areca  nut  Spigelia 

Santonin 

Anthelmintics  killing  oxyiirides. 

Rectal  injections  containing  salt,  solution  of  lime, 
quassia,  iron  salts,  alum  and  oil  of  turpentine  are  used  to 
destroy  these  parasites  infesting  the  lower  bowel. 

Anthelmintics  destroying  oestri  equi  ("  Bots  "). 

Carbon  disulphide  Hydrochloric  acid   ] 

Chloroform  Bitters 

Iron  )■  Tonics 

Arsenic 

Copper  sulphate 

Vermifuges  are  purgatives  (as  aloes  and  oil)  used  to 
expel  dead  parasites  from  the  bowels  after  the  administra- 
tion of  anthelmintics. 

Parasiticides,  or  antiparasitics,  are  drugs  which  destroy 
parasites,  more  especially  those  inhabiting  the  skin.  We 
may  classify  them  as  those  used  : 

(1)  Against  Tinea  (Ringworm  and  Favus). 

Mercurial  ointments  Creosote 

Tincture  of  iodine  Chrysarobin  ointment 

Glycerite  of  carbolic  acid  Cantharides 

Creolin  Croton  oil 


DRUGS  WHICH  DESTROY  MICRO-ORGANISMS  AND  PARASITES     69 

(2)  Against  Acari.     (Scab,  itch  and  mange.) 

Sulphur  Carbolic  acid 

Tar  Corrosive  sublimate 

Peruvian  balsam  Salicylic  acid 

Styrax  Cantharides 

(3)  Agains-  PediculL     (Lice.) 

Staphisagria  Carbolic  acid 

Oil  of  tar  Creolin 

Peruvian  balsam  Tobacco 

Styrax  Pyrethrum 
Oil  of  anise 

(4)  Against  Pulex  irritans.     (Flea.) 

Pyrethrum  Oil  of  anise 

Carbolic  soap 

(5)  Against  Actinomycosis, 

Tincture  of  iodine  Iodoform 

Potassium  iodide  Copper  sulphate 

Glycerite  of  carbolic  acid  Corrosive  sublimate 

(6)  Against  Oideum  Albicans,  (Thrush,  aphtha,  aphthous 
stomatitis.) 

Boric  acid  Alum 

Potassium  chlorate  Salicylic  acid 

Potassium  Permanganate  Hydrochloric  acid 

(7)  Against   Strongylus   micrurus    and    filaria,      (Inter- 
tracheal  injections  of  carbolic  acid  and  turpentine.) 

(For  details  concerning  the  use   of  parasiticides,   see 
special  articles  on  the  drugs  enumerated  above.) 


PHARMACY. 


The  More  Important  Medicinal  Bodies  and 
Principles  Contained  in  Drugs. 

Alkaloideum,  pi.  Alkaloidea, — Alkaloids,    Characteristics : 

1.  Alkaloids  are  nitrogenous  bodies,  being  the  active 
principles  of  many  vegetable  drugs. 

2.  They  resemble  mineral  bases  in  that  they  have  an 
alkaline  reaction  and  unite  with  acids  to  form  soluble  crys- 
talline salts.     Hence  their  name,  alkaloids. 

3.  Chemically  they  are  ammonia  compounds.  One  or 
more  atoms  of  H  (in  NH3)  are  replaced  by  various  radicals. 

4.  They  are  mostly  insoluble  in  water,  but  very  soluble 
in  alcohol.     Solutions  possess  a  bitter  taste. 

5.  They  are  similar  to  animal  alkaloids  and  probably 
have  a  like  origin, — i.e.,  from  the  decomposition  of  albumi- 
noid material. 

6.  Alkaloids  are  precipitated  in  solutions  by  tannin, 
forming  insoluble  tannates. 

7.  They  are  usually  solids  and  their  salts  are  soluble 
and  convenient  for  hypodermic  use. 

8.  Their  Latin  ending  is  itwl  ;  English,  ine  ;  viz.  :  Mor- 
phina,  morphine. 

Examples :  An  alkaloid  of  cinchona  is  quinine ;  of 
belladonna,  atropine. 

Glucosideum^  pi.  Glucosidea. — Glocosides  are  neutral, 
non-nitrogenous  organic  bodies,  representing  the  active  prin- 
ciples of  many  vegetable  drugs.  They  yield  glucose  and  other 
substances  on  decomposition.  Hence  their  name.  Their 
Latin  ending  is  inum  ;  English,  in  ;  viz.,  salicinum,  salicin. 

Examples :  A  glucoside  of  digitalis  is  digitalin ;  of 
santoninum  is  santonin. 

70 


MEDICINAL  BODIES  AND  PRINCIPLES  CONTAINED  IN  DRUGS     71 

Oleurrij  pi.  Oka. — Fixed  oils  are  combinatioDS  of  glycerin 
with  fatty  acids ;  usually  oleic,  stearic,  margaric  or  palmitic 
acids.  They  are  liquid  at  ordinary  temperatures  and  soluble 
in  benzin,  chloroform  and  ether.  Exposed  to  the  air  they 
undergo  acid  fermentation,  resulting  in  "rancidity."  Fixed 
oils  are  expressed  from  fruits  and  seeds  of  plants  and  animal 
tissue.  They  are  "  fixed  "  because  they  cannot  be  distilled. 
They  leave  a  greasy  mark  on  paper. 

Examples  :  Cod  liver  oil,  castor  oil,  olive  oil,  linseed  oil 
and  croton  oil. 

Oleum,  pi.  Oka. — Fats  are  solid,  fixed  oils. 

Examples  :  Lard,  cacao  butter. 

Okum  destillatum,  pi.  Oka  destillata. — Distilled  oils  are 
obtained  by  the  distillation  of  flowers,  fruits,  leaves  or  seeds 
of  plants ;  by  maceration,  infusion,  expression ;  or  by 
extraction  with  solvents.  They  are  either  liquid  or  solid 
and  possess  an  aromatic  odor  and  taste.  They  are  lighter 
than  water,  and  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  very  slightly 
soluble  in  water.  Distilled  oils  are  miscible  with  fatty  sub- 
stances and  mineral  oils.  They  do  not  leave  a  gre.asy  mark 
on  paper. 

Synonyms  :  Essential  oils,  volatile  oils  and  ethereal 
oils.     Alcoholic  solutions  of  these  oils  are  known  as  essences. 

Examples :  Oil  oi  peppermint,  oil  of  cloves,  oil  of  win- 
tergreen. 

Oko-resina,  pi.  Oko-resince. — Oleo-resins  are  semi- solid 
mixtures  of  resins  and  volatile  oils.  Many  are  natural 
products,  exuding  from  trees,  as  crude  turpentine,  which 
contains  the  volatile  oil  of  turpentine  and  a  resin,  or  what 
is  commonly  termed  "  rosin."     They  are  soluble  in  ether. 

Examples  :  Oleo-resin  of  capsicum,  oleo-resin  of  aspi- 
dium. 

Resina,  pi.  Resince. — Resins  are  brittle,  amorphous  solids, 
soluble  in  alcohol  and  alkalies.  They  are  obtained  from 
oleo-resins  by  simple  distillation,  as  in  the  case  of  turpen- 
tine ;  or  may  be  extracted  from  plants  by  means  of  heat  or 
alcohol. 


72  PHARMACY 

Examples :  The  resins  of  Burgundy  pitch  and  podo- 
phyllum. 

Balsamiim,  pi.  Bahama. — Balsams  are  oleo-resins  with 
the  addition  of  either  cinnamic  or  benzoic  acids,  or  both. 
They  are  solids  or  liquids. 

Examples :  Balsam  of  Peru,  balsam  of  Tolu. 

Gummus,  pi.  Gummi. — Gums  are  solid  exudations  from 
plants.  They  are  generally  soluble  in  water,  and  their  solu- 
tions are  precipitated  by  alcohol. 

Example  :  Gum  acacia. 

Gum  Besina,  pi.  Gum  Besince,  are  solid  exudations  from 
plants  consisting  of  a  mixture  of  a  gum  and  a  resin. 


Pharmaceutical  Processes. 

Many  of  the  technical  methods  are  those  employed  in 
chemistry,  but  of  those  more  especially  used  in  pharmacy 
are  the  following : 

Trihcratioii  is  the  process  of  rubbing  or  grinding  coarse 
materials  in  the  dry  state  to  reduce  them  to  powder. 

Elutriation  consists  in  suspending  insoluble  substances 
in  water  and  decanting  the  supernatant  fluid,  the  coarser 
particles  settling  to  the  bottom  in  the  process.  The  method 
is  then  repeated  until  fluid  containing  powder  of  the  required 
fineness  is  obtained,  when  the  sediment  is  filtered  and  dried. 

Levigation  combines  elutriation  with  trituration.  The 
substance  to  be  ground  is  put  into  a  mortar  with  fluid  and 
the  supernatant  fluid  is  drawn  off  after  comminution  of  the 
former,  leaving  the  larger  particles  behind. 

Maceration  consists  in  soaking  a  coarsely  powdered  drug 
in  a  liquid  at  a  temperature  of  60°  to  70°  Far. 

Digestion  is  the  latter  process  conducted  at  a  higher 
temperature,  but  less  than  the  boiling  point. 

Lixiviation  is  the  method  by  which  the  soluble  sub- 
stances are  obtained  from  ashes  by  the  percolation  of  water 
through  them.     The  resultant  solution  is  termed  a  lye. 


PHARMACEUTICAL  PREPARATIONS  73 

Percolation,  or  method  of  displacement,  is  the  process 
employed  in  preparing  tinctures  and  extracts,  in  which  a 
fluid  is  allowed  to  percolate  through  a  drug  packed  in  a 
conical  cylinder,  carrying  with  it  the  soluble  constituents  of 
the  drug. 

Dialysis  is  the  operation  of  separating  colloid  from 
crystalloid  substances  in  solution.  The  solution  is  placed 
in  a  dialyser  (a  cylinder,  over  the  bottom  of  which  is  placed 
a  piece  of  parchment)  and  the  dialyser  is  immersed  in  water. 
The  crystalline  bodies  diffuse  into  the  water  through  the 
parchment  while  the  colloid  materials  remain  behind. 

Scaling  is  the  method  by  which  concentrated  prepara- 
tions of  drugs  are  dried  upon  glass  plates  in  thin  films,  and 
then  broken  up  into  scales — viz.,  scale  pepsin. 

Other  familiar  chemical  processes  employed  in  phar- 
macy are  : 

Liquefaction,  which  must  not  be  conducted  at  too  high 
a  temperature  if  the  substance  be  organic,  otherwise  charring 
will  occur. 

Evaporation  is  accomplished  usually  in  a  sand  or  water 
bath. 

Crystallization  is  done  to  purify  crystallizable  substances. 

Distillation, 

SMimation, 

Fusion. 

Incineration  is  the  combustion  of  a  substance  for  its  ashes. 

Reduction  is  employed  to  recover  a  metal  in  its  purity 
when  in  a  combined  state. 


Pharmaceutical  Preparations. 

The  '*  United  States  Pharmacopoeia  "  is  an  authoritative 
book,  including  the  drugs  of  most  value  with  a  description 
of  their  properties,  tests  for  their  purity,  and  methods  for 
making  their  preparatious.  It  is  revised  each  decade  by  a 
convention  of  representative  delegates  from  medical  schools 


74  PHARMA.CY 

and  societies,  schools  of  pharmacy  and  pharmaceutical  asso- 
ciations,  with  the  collaboration  of  medical  officers  from  the 
army,  navy  and  marine  hospital  service.  The  last  edition 
dates  from  January  1st,  1894  All  matter  occurring  in  the 
"Pharmacopoeia  "  is  said  to  be  according  to  the  U.  S.  P.,  or 
official.  That  occurring  in  the  "  British  Pharmacopoeia  "  ia 
marked  B.  P. 


Official  Preparations. 

L^Preparations  Whose  Solvent  is  Water. 

Decocturriy  pi.  Decoda, — Decoctions  are  solutions  of  crude 
drugs  in  water,  obtained  by  boiling.  Unless  specified 
otherwise,  their  strength  is  5  per  cent.,  and  the  boiling  is 
conducted  fifteen  minutes.  Decoctions  tend  to  undergo 
rapid  decomposition,  and  are  only  suitable  in  case  of  those 
drugs  whose  active  principle  is  soluble  in  water.  They  are 
unsuitable  when  the  active  principle  of  a  drug  is  volatile, 
decomposed  by  heat,  or  whea  it  contains  much  starch,  which 
would  form  an  easily  decomposable,  thick  mass. 

Drugs  containing  hard,  woody  substances,  especially 
albumin,  which  coagulates  in  boiling  and  remains  in  the 
crude  drug,  are  those  especially  adapted  for  this  method. 

InfTisumy  pi.  Infusa. — Infusions  are  aqueous  solutions  of 
drugs  made  by  maceration  in  boiling  water  without  the  aid 
of  ebullition.  Maceration  is  done  for  half  an  hour,  and  the 
strength  is  5  per  cent.,  unless  otherwise  ordered.  The  same 
disadvantages  apply  in  the  case  of  infusions  as  with  decoc- 
tions, in  addition  to  the  longer  time  required  for  their 
preparation.  Some  drugs,  as  digitalis  or  ergot,  which  yield 
their  active  principles  to  water  and  are  more  powerful  when 
freshly  made,  are  suitable  for  this  process. 

Liquor  J  pi.  Liquores, — Solutions  are  preparations  holding 
active  non-volatile  principles  in  solution  in  water.  They 
have  no  uniform  strength. 


OFFICIAL  PREPARATIONS  75 

Aqim,  pi.  Aquce. — Waters  are  aqueous  solutions  of  vola- 
tile principles.  They  have  no  uniform  strength  and  are 
mostly  solutions  of  volatile  oils  or  gases. 

Mistura,  pi.  3IisturcB. — Mixtures  are  compounds  consist- 
ing of  a  combination  of  fluid  preparations  or  compounds  in 
which  solid  substances  are  dissolved  or  held  in  suspension 
by  an  appropriate  vehicle.  The  term  is  thus  very  compre- 
hensive, including  most  prescriptions  for  fluids  used  in 
practice,  but  more  narrowly  it  applies  in  pharmacy  to  insol- 
uble materials  suspended  by  suitable  menstrua  in  water,  the 
whole  to  be  shaken  before  used.  They  have  no  definite 
strength. 

JSmnlsum,  pi.  Eraulsa.  — Emulsions  are  similar  to  mix- 
tures in  that  an  oily  substance  in  a  state  of  fine  division  is 
held  in  suspension  in  a  gummy  or  albuminous  vehicle. 
They  have  no  uniform  strength. 

Syrupus,  pi.  Syrupi — Syrups  are  saccharine  solutions. 
The  vehicle  is  usually  water,  although  vinegar  and  alcohol 
may  be  used,  and  they  are  all  medicated  except  the  simple 
syrup.     They  are  not  of  uniform  strength. 

II. — Preparations  Whose  Solvent  is  Alcohol. 

Tinctura,  pi.  Tincturce. — Tinctures  are  alcoholic  solu- 
tions of  non-volatile  principles,  made  usually  by  maceration 
and  percolation  of  the  crude  drug.  They  vary  in  strength, 
usually  from  5  to  20  per  cent.,  but  even  exceed  these  limits. 
The  alcohol  in  tinctures  is  often  an  important  factor  in  the 
action  of  the  preparation.  Strong  or  diluted  alcohol  is  used 
according  to  the  solubility  of  the  active  principle. 

Spiritus,  pi.  Spiritus. — Spirits  are  alcoholic  solutions  of 
volatile  substances,  either  gases,  liquids,  or  solids.  They 
have  no  uniform  strength. 

Elixir,  pi.  Elixirs. — Elixirs  are  alcoholic  solutions  of 
drugs  containing  sugar  and  aromatic  substances. 

III. — Preparations  Having  Wine  as  a  Solvent. 

Vinum,  pi.  Vina. — Wines  are  weak  tinctures  containing 


76  PHARMACY 

a  small  amount  of  alcohol,  the  remainder   of  the  solvent 
being  white  wine.     They  have  no  definite  strength. 

IV. — Preparations  Having  as  a  Solvent  Diluted 
Acetic  Acid. 

Acetum,  pi.  Aceta, — Vinegars  are  solutions  of  the  active 
principles  of  drugs  in  acetic  acid  prepared  by  maceration 
and  percolation.     They  are  not  of  uniform  strength. 

V. — Preparations  Made  by  Solution  and  Evaporation. 

Extracfumf  pi.  Extracta. — Extracts  are  concentrated 
preparations  of  the  crude  drug.  Ordinarily  alcoholic  solu- 
tions of  the  crude  drug  are  obtained  by  maceration  and 
percolation,  and  then  evaporated  to  a  pasty  mass.  They 
are  usually  stronger,  weight  for  weight,  than  the  crude  drug, 
but  are  not  of  uniform  strength. 

Extractum  Fluidum,  pi.  Extracta  Fluida.— Fluid  extracts 
are  permanent,  concentrated  medicinal  solutions  of  uniform 
strength.  M.l  of  the  fluid  extract  is  equivalent  to  gr.l  of 
the  crude  drug.  This  result  is  obtained  by  percolation 
(usually  with  alcohol)  and  partial  evaporation. 

VI.— Preparations  Made  by  Distillation  or  Occurring 
Naturally,  as  Exudations  from  Trees. 

Oleo-Resina,  pi.  Oleo-Resince. — Oleo-Resins  are  officially 
extracts  obtained  by  percolation  of  the  crude  drug  with 
ether,  and  evaporation  of  the  solvent.  They  have  no  uniform 
strength. 

PuJvis,  pi.  Pvlveres. — Powders  are  preparations  of  finely 
pulverized  drugs.  Sugar  of  milk  is  frequently  added,  on 
account  of  its  hardness,  to  aid  in  pulverization  and  as  a 
diluent.  Comparatively  tasteless,  non-irritating  and  often 
insoluble  drugs  are  given  in  this  form.  Drugs  that  are 
volatile,  deliquescent  or  irritating  are  otherwise  administered. 
Powders  are  used  to  advantage  in  veterinary  practice,  since 
they  are  often  taken  voluntarily  on  food. 

Trituration  pi.   Triturationes. — Triturates  are   combina- 


OFFICIAL  PREPARATIONS  77 

tions  of  drugs  and  sugar  of  milk,  prepared  by  trituration. 
They  occur  in  powder^'or  are  pressed  into  tablets. 

Oleum,  pi.  Olea. — Fixed  oils  are  usually  obtained  by 
mechanical  expression  from  the  product  of  plants  or  the 
tissue  of  animals. 

Pilula,  pL  PUulce. — Pills  are  preparations  of  drugs  made 
into  globular  form  by  the  addition  of  a  suitable  excipient, 
and  should  be  of  a  convenient  size  for  swallowing. 

Massa,  pi.  Massce. — Masses  are  pasty  mixtures  suitable 
for  making  pills. 

Siippositorium,  pi.  Suppositoria.  —  Suppositories  are 
medicinal  substances  incorporated  with  cacao  butter  and 
moulded  into  solid,  usually  conical,  bodies  intended  for 
introduction  into  the  rectum  or  vagina,  where  they  melt  at 
the  temperature  of  the  body. 

Covfectio,  pi.  Co7i  fed  (ones. — Confections  are  pasty  masses, 
consisting  of  powder  incorporated  with  syrup. 

VIII. — Preparations  Intended  for  External  Use. 

Linimentum,  pi.  Lmzmen^a.— Liniments  are  liquid  pre- 
parations with  an  oily  or  soapy  basis. 

OleaturUj  pi.  Oleata. — Oleates  are  medicinal  solutions  in 
oleic  acid. 

Unguentum,  pi.  Unguenta. — Ointments  are  preparations 
having  a  fatty  basis  (80  per  cent,  of  lard). 

Ceratum,  pi.  Cerata. — Cerates  are  similar  to  ointments 
but  harder,  owing  to  the  addition  of  10  per  cent,  more  wax. 

Glyceritum,  pi.  Glycerita. — Glycerites  are  preparations 
whose  solvent  is  glycerin. 

Emplastrum,  pi.  Emplastra. — Plasters  are  solid,  sticky, 
supple  preparations  intended  for  application  to  the  skin, 
where  they  become  adhesive  at  the  temperature  of  the  body. 
In  veterinary  parlance  they  are  often  known  as  "  charges." 

Charta,  pi.  Ghartce. — Papers  are  fragments  of  medicated 
paper. 

Collodium,  pi.  Colhdia. — Collodions  are  solutions  of  gun 


78  PHARMACY 

cotton  in  ether  and  alcohol,  leaving  a  thin,  dry,  adhesive 
coating  when  applied  externally. 

IX.— Preparations  Haying  Honey  as  an  Excipient. 
Mel^  pi.  Melita. — Honeys. 

X. — Non-Official  Preparations   Peculiar   to  Veterinary 

Practice. 

Bolus,  pi.  Boll. — Balls  are  substitutes  for  pills.  They 
are  of  elongated,  cylindrical  shape,  about  two  and  one-half 
inches  long,  and  should  weigh  about  two  'ounces  when 
intended  for  horses.  Various  excipients  are  used  to  make 
a  mass  of  the  proper  consistency.  For  immediate  use, 
molasses  and  licorice  root  may  be  employed,  and  brown 
tissue  paper  is  used  as  a  covering  for  the  balls.  Gelatine 
capsules  may  take  the  place  of  balls,  and  should  be  covered 
with  paper  to  prevent  slipping  through  the  fingers  when  wet 
with  saliva.  Linseed  meal  is  a  good  excipient  on  account  of 
its  gum.  Soap  is  often  used,  and  glycerin  makes  a  good 
preservative  and  keeps  the  mass  moist. 

Heat  is  often  necessary  in  preparing  a  ball  mass  when 
the  materials  are  resinous  (as  aloes)  or  waxy.  A  ball  is 
given  to  a  horse  by  holding  it  in  the  right  hand,  the  tips  of 
the  fingers  and  thumb  surrounding  it  in  the  form  of  a  cone. 
The  tongue  of  the  animal  being  drawn  to  the  operator's  left 
with  his  left  hand,  the  right  is  then  quickly  passed  along  the 
roof  of  the  patient's  mouth  (avoiding  the  edges  of  the  back 
teeth)  until  the  back  of  the  tongue  is  reached,  when  the  ball 
is  dropped,  the  right  hand  rapidly  removed  and  the  tongue 
released. 

If  the  mouth  is  narrow  or  the  animal  unmanageable,  a 
balling  iron  or  speculum  is  used  to  keep  the  mouth  open. 
The  horse  may  be  backed  into  a  narrow  stall  and  the  head 
steadied  by  an  attendant  with  the  assistance  of  a  **  twitch  " 
on  the  nose.  Substances  of  an  irritating  nature  may  be 
given  in  this  form,  and  balls  are  also  used  when  the  disposi- 
tion of  the  patient  does  not  admit  the  giving  of  a  drench. 


OFFICIAL   PREPAKATIONS  79 

Haustus,  pi.  Havstus. — Drenches  are  extemporaneous 
fluid  mixtures,  intended  for  immediate  use  as  a  single  dose. 

Soluble  substances  are  best  given  in  solution  to  obtain 
the  most  rapid  results,  unless  irritating.  Even  then  they 
may  be  preferable  when  sufficiently  diluted  with  water  and 
demulcents.  Insoluble  drugs  may  at  times  be  given  to 
advantage  in  a  mixture  rather  than  in  the  form  of  a  ball  or 
powder.  Most  official  fluid  preparations  require  dilution 
before  administration,  but  for  convenience  small  doses  of 
tinctures  and  fluid  extracts  are  dropped  upon  the  tongue  of 
horses  unless  the  preparations  are  exceptionally  acrid. 
Drenches  are  particularly  applicable  for  cattle  and  sheep,  as 
solids  are  not  quickly  absorbed  in  their  capacious  digestive 
apparatus,  and  drenches  are  given  them  with  ease. 

The  amount  of  liquid  conveniently  administered  to 
horses  is  from  one  to  two  pints  ;  to  dogs,  from  two  to  four 
ounces ;  to  sheep,  six  to  eight  ounces.  Cattle  take  readily 
unlimited  quantities.  Care  should  be  observed  that  drenches 
are  so  diluted  as  to  be  harmless  to  the  mucous  membrane, 
and,  if  containing  insoluble  drugs,  that  these  be  held  in 
suspension  by  a  suitable  vehicle  or  thoroughly  shaken  before 
using.  Drenches  are  given  to  horses  by  raising  their  head 
with  a  "  twitch  "  on  the  nose,  held  by  an  assistant,  or  by  a 
rope  leading  from  the  halter  to  a  ring  overhead.  A  horse 
may  be  first  backed  into  a  narrow  stall.  The  neck  of  the 
bottle  (which  should  properly  be  made  of  horn  or  tin)  con- 
taining the  drench,  being  introduced  and  held  in  the  right 
hand  of  the  operator  between  the  outside  of  the  back  teeth 
and  the  inside  of  the  cheek  of  the  patient,  the  left  hand  is 
used  to  steady  the  nose  of  the  animal,  but  the  nostrils  should 
not  be  obstructed. 

In  giving  drenches  to  cattle  the  operator  stands  on  their 
left  and  passes  his  right  arm  between  the  horns  over  the 
poll  and  down  in  front  of  the  face,  grasping  the  nasal  septum 
between  the  thumb  and  forefinger.  The  neck  of  the  bottle 
is  then  thrust  with  the  left  hand  into  the  animal's  mouth. 
Dogs  are  given  drenches  with  the  aid  of  an  assistant,  who 


80  PHARMACY 

holds  the  mouth  open  by  means  of  two  loops  of  tape  passed 
about  either  jaw  behind  the  incisor  teeth.  The  jaws  are 
then  pulled  apart  by  drawing  on  either  loop  from  above  and 
from  below  the  animal's  Lead.  Small  dogs  may  be  placed 
sitting  upon  a  table.  A  large  dog  maybe  put  upon  his  hind 
quarters  in  a  corner,  and  his  head  held  between  the  knees 
of  the  operator.  Cats  are  given  drenches  by  rolling  them 
in  a  heavy  blanket  with  only  the  head  out  and  the  jaws  held 
apart  as  recommended  for  dogs. 

Drenches  should  never  be  poured  into  animals  if  in  an 
unconscious  condition,  for  then  they  are  unable  to  swallow, 
and  the  fluid  may  gravitate  into  the  trachea.  If  coughing 
ensues  during  the  administration  of  a  drench,  the  procedure 
should  be  immediately  stopped. 

Electmxriumy  pi.  Electuaria. — Electuaries  are  medicinal 
pastes  intended  to  be  smeared  on  the  teeth  of  animals,  where 
they  melt  at  the  temperature  of  the  body  and  become 
absorbed.  Molasses,  honey,  glycerin,  syrup  or  mucilage 
are  used  as  excipients.  Electuaries  are  used  for  their  local 
action  on  the  mouth  and  throat,  and  for  convenience  in 
administration,  if  so  crude  a  method  may  be  thus  described. 
A  certain  specified  quantity  of  the  electuary  may  be  weighed 
by  the  dispenser  and  serve  as  a  sample,  or  a  domestic 
utensil  may  be  employed  to  measure  the  dose,  which  is 
smeared  with  a  thin,  flat  stick  on  the  back  teeth  or  tongue 
of  the  patient 


INCOMPATIBILITY. 


Before  entering  upon  the  study  of  prescription  writing, 
it  is  essential  to  consider  the  results  of  improper  combina- 
tion of  drugs,  i.e.y  incompatibility. 

While  a  knowledge  of  chemistry,  pharmacy  and  the 
physiological  actions  of  drugs  is  necessary  to  avoid  incom- 
patibility, it  is  yet  possible  to  formulate  certain  rules  which 
will  assist  us  in  escaping  unfortunate  combinations. 

Incompatibility  is  conveniently  divided  into  three 
classes :     I.  Chemical.     II.  Physical.     III.  Physiological. 

I.  Chemical  incompatibility  occurs  when  drugs  are  so 
mixed  that  an  unsuitable  alteration  in  their  chemical  com- 
position takes  place.  Certain  substances  should  usually  be 
prescribed  alone  because  of  the  frequency  with  which 
chemical  changes  arise  when  they  are  combined  with  other 
medicines.     These  are : 

Lead,  silver  and  zinc  salts  Mineral  acids 

Iodine  and  iodides  Solution  of  potassa  and  lime 

Tannic  and  gallic  acids  Quinine  sulphate 

Liquid  iron  preparations  Hydrocyanic  acid 

Corrosive  sublimate 

The  possibilities  of  the  following  combinations  must  be 
kept  in  mind  to  avoid  incompatibility  : 

1.  Solutions  of  alkaloids  are  incompatible  with  tannic 
acid,  alkalies,  alkaline  salts,  and  iodides  and  bromides, 
because  precipitation  occurs, 

2.  Glucosides  are  decomposed  by  acids  and  are,  there- 
fore, incompatible  with  them. 

3.  Acids  may  not  be  added  to  alkalies,  alkaline  salts  or 
vegetable  acid  salts,  because  decomposition  and  chemical 
change  will  ensue. 

81 


82  INCOMPATIBILITY 

4.  A  mixture  of  salts  in  solution  will  decompose  if 
either  an  insoluble  compound  or  double  salt  can  be  formed; 
otherwise  no  change  will  take  place-* 

5.  Chloral  is  incompatible  with  alkaline  solutions, 
because  chloroform  is  generated. 

6.  Chloroform  and  potassium  cyanide  form  prussic  acid. 

7.  Potassium  chlorate,  nitrate,  or  permanganate  liberate 
oxygen  and  should  not  be  mixed  with  readily  oxidizable 
substances,  such  as  charcoal,  sugar,  sulphur,  glycerin,  car- 
bolic acid,  iodine,  turpentine  and  organic  materials,  lest 
explosive  compounds  be  formed. 

8.  Lime  water  precipitates  mercury  salts. 

9.  Both  calomel  and  antipyrin  are  incompatible  with 
sweet  spirit  of  nitre. 

10.  Calomel  may  not  be  combined  with  nitrohydro- 
chloric  acid  lest  corrosive  sublimate  result 

11.  Calomel  and  prussic  acid  form  tl^e  poisonous  mer- 
curic cyanide. 

12.  Liquid  iron  compounds  are  incompatible  with  fluid 
preparations  of  the  vegetable  bitters  (except  those  of  calumba 
and  quassia),  because  the  tannic  acid  in  them  throws  down 
a  precipitate.  , 

13.  Considerable  quantities  of  acid  are  incompatible 
with  tinctures,  since  ethers  are  produced. 

14.  Water  precipitates  resinous  tinctures. 

15.  Gum  arabic  is  incompatible  with  lead  and  iron  salts, 
and  mineral  acids. 

16.  Strychnine  is  precipitated  in  solution  by  potassium 
bromide. 

17.  Pepsin  and  pancreatin  are  mutually  destructive  in 
fluid  combination. 

18.  Solutions  of  potassium  chlorate  and  iodide  unite  to 
form  a  poisonous  compound. 

It  is  beyond  our  scope  to  attempt  the  enumeration  of 
all  possible  drug-incompatibilities.  The  special  incompati- 
bilities of  each  drug  may  be  found  under  the  proper  heading 
in  the  detailed  description  of  them.     Furthermore,  we  may 


INCOMPATIBILirY  .  83 

avoid  incompatibility  by  (above  all)  simplicity  in  prescrip- 
tion writing,  i.e.,  the  use  of  few  drugs  in  combination.  Water 
or  alcohol  are  generally  the  best  solvents. 

II.  Physical  incompatibility  consists  in  the  production 
of  unsightly-looking  mixtures,  but  without  necessarily  any 
chemical  alteration  of  their  ingredients ;  for  example,  the 
addition  of  water  to  insoluble  powders,  oils  and  chloroform. 
While  such  combinations  are  pharmaceutically  improper, 
they  may  sometimes  be  used  to  advantage  in  practice. 

III.  Physiological  incompatibility  consists  in  the  union 
of  drugs  possessing  antagonistic  physiological  actions.'  For 
instance,  the  combination  of  purgatives  and  astringents ;  of 
morphine  and  atropine ;  of  digitalis  and  nitroglycerin.  Such 
prescriptions  may  be  valuable  therapeutically  when  the 
antagonism  is  not  complete.  This  follows  because,  while  the 
deleterious  action  of  one  drug  may  be  offset  by  another,  its 
beneficial  effect  may  at  the  same  time  exist  or  be  accentuated. 
Thus  the  anodyne  influence  of  morphine  is  increased  by 
combination  with  atropine,  but  both  the  depressing  action 
of  morphine  on  the  respiration  and  its  constipating  tenden- 
cies are  lessened  by  atropine. 


PRESCRIPTION    WRITING. 


Words  and  Phrases  Commonly  Used  in  Prescrip- 
tion Writing,  With  their  Abbreviations.* 


LATIN  WORD. 

ABBREVIATIONS. 

TRANSLATION. 

Acidnm 

Acid. 

An  acid 

Ad 

To,  up  to 

Ad  libitum 

Ad  lib. 

At  pleasure 

Adde 

Add. 

Add  (thou). 

Ana 

A.aa. 

Of  each 

Aqua  fontana 

Aq.  font. 

Water,  spring 

Aqua  destillata 

*'    dest. 

.     "       distilled 

Bene 

Well 

Bis  in  dies 

Bis.  ind. 

Twice  daily 

Cape,  Capiat 

Cap. 

Take.   Let  him  take 

Capsula 

Caps. 

A  capsule 

Ceratum 

Cerat. 

A  cerate 

Charta  (karta) 

Chart. 

A  paper  (medicated) 

Chartula  (kartula) 

Chart. 

A   little     paper     for    a 

powder 
A  tablespoon 

Cochleare  magnum 

Coch.  mag. 

Cochleare  parvum 

Coch.  parv. 

A  teaspoon 

Cola.  Colatus 

Col. 

Strain,  strained 

Colly  rium 

Collyr. 

An  eye  wash 

Compositus 

Co.  Comp. 

Compound 

Congius 

C. 

A  gallon 

Confectio 

Conf. 

A  confection 

Cortex 

Cort. 

Bark 

Cum 

With 

Decoctum 

Decoc. 

A  decoction 

Dilute,  Dilutus 

Dil. 

Dilute  (thou),  diluted 

Divide 

D.  Div. 

Divide  (thou) 
To  be  divided 

Dividendus 

Dividend. 

Dividatur  in  parts  8Bqu- 

D.  in  p.  aeq. 

Let    it  be    divided    into 

ales. • 

equal  parts 

Dosis 

Dos. 

A  dose 

Eraplastrum 

Kmp. 

A  plaster 

Enema 

Enem. 

An  enema 

Extractnm 

Ext. 

An  extract 

Fac,  fiat,  fiant 

F. 

Make,  let  be   made,  let 
them  be  made 

Filtnim,  Filtra 

Fil. 

A  filter.    Filter  (thou) 

Fluidus 

Fl.  f. 

Fluid 

Glyceritum 

84 

Glyc. 

A  glycerine 

PRESCRIPTION   WRITING 


85 


LATIN  WORD. 


ABBREVIATIONS. 


TRANSLATION. 


Gutta,  Guttae 

Gtt. 

A  drop,  drops 

Guttatim 

Guttat. 

Drop  by  drop 

Haustus 

Haust. 

A  draught 

Hora 

H.  Hor. 

An  hour 

In  dies 

Ind. 

Daily 

Infusum 

Inf. 

An  infusion 

Injectio 

Inj. 

An  injection 

Lac 

Milk 

Libra 

Lb. 

A  pound,  a  Troy  pound 

Liquor,  or  Liq'uor 

Liq. 

A  solution 

Lotio  (losheo) 

A  lotion 

Magnus 

Mag. 

Large 

Massa 

Mass. 

A  pill-mass 

Misce 

M. 

Mix 

Mistura 

Mist. 

A  mixture 

Mucilago 

Mucil. 

A  mucilage 

Nox,  Nocte  Maneque 

Night,  at  night  and  in 
the  morning 

Numerus,  NUmero 

No. 

A  number,  in  number 

Octarius 

O. 

A  pint 

Pars 

A  part  (governs  genitive) 

Partes  aequales 

P.ge. 

Equal  parts 

Parvus 

Parv. 

Small 

Pilula 

Pil. 

A  pill 

Pro  re  nata 

P.  r.  n. 

According  to  circum- 
stances; occasionally 

Pulvis 

Pulv. 

A  powder 

Quantum  Sufficiat 

Q.  S.  (followed  by 

As  much  as  is  necessary 

genitive) 

Quaqua  hora 

Q.h. 

Every  hour 

Saturatus 

Sat. 

Saturated 

Semissis 

Ss. 

A  half 

Semidrachma 

Semidr. 

A  lialf  drachm 

Sesuncia 

Sesunc. 

An  ounce  and  a  half 

Signa 

Solve.  Solutus 

S.  Sig. 

Sign 

Solv. 

Dissolve,  dissolved 

Solutio 

Sol. 

A  solution 

Spiritus 

Spr. 

A  spirit 

Suppositoria 

Suppos. 

A  suppository 

Syrups 

Syr: 

A  syrup 

Talis 

Tal. 

Such,  or,  like 

Tinctura 

Tra.  Tr. 

A  tincture 

Ter  in  die 

T,  1.  d. 

Three  times  a  day 

Unguentum 

Ungt. 

An  ointment 

Vinum 

Vin 

A  wine 

Vehiculum 

Vehie. 

A  menstrum 

Abstracted  from  Mann's  "  Prescription  Writing." 


86  PRESCRIPTION  WRITING 

A  prescription,  derived  from  the  Latin  Prae,  before,  and 
Scriptum,  written,  comes  to  us  from  the  early  custom  of 
physicians  in  writing  down  their  advice  beforehand  for  their 
patients'  guidance.  As  now  used  it  is  the  written  formula 
of  the  practitioner  describing  to  the  pharmacist  the  manner 
of  compounding  and  dispensing  medicines,  and  to  the 
attendant  the  mode  of  administering  them. 

Formulae  are  official  when  simply  taken  from  the 
"  United  States  Pharmacopoeia,"  and  extemporaneous  when 
concocted  off-hand  by  the  practitioner.  Extemporaneous 
formulae  are  simple  when  composed  of  one  ingredient ;  a 
compound  prescription  is  composed  of  several  parts,  which 
may  be  considered  as  follows : 

I.  Heading. 
II.  Names  and  quantities  of  drugs. 

III.  Direction  to  compounder. 

IV.  Direction  to  attendant. 
V.  Signature  of  writer. 

The  heading,  "Kecipe,"  is  derived  from  the  Latin,  the 
imperative  of  the  verb  meaning  to  take,  and  is  ordinarily  rep- 
resente^J  by  the  sign  $1 ,  a  corruption  of  Qj_,  the  sign  of  the 
Zodiac  for  Jupiter.  After  the  Christian  era  the  sign  of  the 
Cross  was  used,  or  N.  D.,  for  Nomine  Deo,  in  God's  name; 
J.  D.  for  Juvane  Deo,  meaning  God  helping,  etc.  We  have 
now  reverted  to  the  old  sign,  which  is  all  that  remains  of  an 
appeal  to  Jupiter.  This  symbol  seems  to  put  the  practi- 
tioner, even  if  involuntarily,  into  a  position  of  reverence  in 
thus  offering  a  prayer  in  embryo  (the  old  physicians  always 
wrote  one)  whenever  one  writes  a  prescription.  The  custom 
also  suggests  that  we  are  not  yet  sufficiently  sure  of  our 
Materia  Medica  after  all  these  centuries,  to  sacrifice  the 
efficacy  of  prayer. 

In  regard  to  the  names  and  quantities  of  drugs,  we  find 
in  the  text  books  that  one  should  always  strive  after  a 
classical  arrangement,  whereby  four  ingredients  are  essential 
to  accomplish  any  result.     These  include  : 


PRESCEIPTION   WRITING  87 

I.  The  basis,  or  active  medicinal  substance. 
II.  The  adjuvant,  or  assistant. 
III.  The  corrigent,  or  corrective. 
IV.  The  excipient,  vehicle,  or  menstruum. 

But  we  shall  find  that  while  such  a  classical  arrange- 
ment may  exist  in  the  text-books,  we  are  usually  content  in 
practice  with  the  basis,  together  with  a  vehicle.  The 
classical  arrangement  is  essential  in  order  that  the  old  Latin 
motto  be  fulfilled  :  "  Curare  cito,  tuto  et  jucunde.''  Curare — 
to  cure  (the  basis) ;  cito — quickly  (the  adjuvant)  ;  ^w^o— safely 
(the  corrigent)  ;  Jucunde — pleasantly  (the  excipient). 

In  a  physic  ball  for  horses  we  may  employ  aloes  as  a 
basis ;  calomel  as  an  adjuvant ;  ginger  as  a  corrective ; 
molasses  as  an  excipient.  More  commonly  in  fluid  prepara- 
tions we  prescribe  several  bases,  or  ingredients  for  curative 
purposes,  neglecting  any  adjuvant  or  corrigent  and  simply 
using  water  as  a  vehicle.  It  is  often  of  distinct  advantage 
to  write  for  a  combination  of  several  drugs  whose  action 
looks  towards  a  common  end.  Yet  one  should  always  lean 
to  simplicity  rather  than  complexity  in  the  number  of 
ingredients.  While  it  is  difficult  to  avoid  chemical  antago- 
nism, how  much  harder  is  it  to  prevent  untoward  physio- 
logical combinations  in  the  body,  which  we  can  in  nowise 
foretell.  In  olden  times  ignorance  led  practitioners  to  try 
the  effect  of  an  enormous  number  of  drugs,  with  the  hope 
that  out  of  the  charge  one  at  least  of  the  pellets  in  these 
shot-gun  prescriptions  might  strike  the  desired  spot,  if  the 
others  failed  to  do  so.  But  we  now  believe  that  the  damage 
done  by  all  the  shot  which  miss  far  surpasses  the  good 
accomplished  by  the  successful  missile.  Four  hundred 
different  remedies  are  included  in  one  of  these  old  formulae, 
whereas  now  it  is  rare  to  find  four  in  a  prescription. 

In  relation  to  the  third  part  of  the  prescription  (the 
directions  to  the  compounder),  we  find  that  a  few  regulation 
Latin  phrases  or  words  express  these  directions.  If  one  is 
unfamiliar  with  Latin,  one  can  easily  memorize  these  words 


88  PRESCRIPTION   WRITING 

and  phrases  understandingly.  The  directions  to  the 
attendant  are  heralded  by  the  Latin  Signa,  or  Signetur^ 
meaning  label,  or  let  it  be  labelled  ;  abbreviated,  **  Sig.,"  or 
merely  "  S.,"  and  being  for  the  use  of  the  attendant  of  the 
patient,  are  in  English.  The  directions  should  be  very 
precise.  One  should  not  write  :  "  Use  as  directed,"  or  "  Give 
in  water,"  but  indicate  exactly  the  quantity  of  medicine  to 
be  administered,  the  precise  amount  of  water  with  which  it 
is  to  be  diluted,  and  the  time  at  which  it  is  to  be  given. 
For  instance:  "Give  one  tablespoonful  in  half  a  pint  of 
water  three  times  daily  after  feeding." 

Poisons  should  be  marked  as  such.  It  is  well  some- 
times to  indicate  that  the  prescription  is  *'  for  a  horse,"  in 
order  to  avoid  mistakes  and  to  quell  the  qualms  of  the 
conscientious  druggist. 

Preparations  which  are  not  to  be  used  internally  should 
be  labelled  "  external  use."  Under  *' Signature  "  the  name 
of  the  writer  and  date  is  included.  If  desirable,  one  may 
inscribe  "  Do  not  repeat."  Quantities  used  in  prescription 
writing  are  indicated  by  the  signs  of  the  apothecaries  or 
Troy  system  of  weights  for  solids.  For  liquids,  signs  rep- 
resenting units  of  the  wine  measure  are  employed.  The 
Troy  grain  and  ounce  are  used  by  apothecaries  as  units  of 
weights  in  dispensing  prescriptions.  In  ordering  large 
quantities  (as  pounds)  the  avoirdupois  pound  of  16  ounces 
is  employed,  and  in  buying  ounces  of  drugs  without  a  pre- 
scription the  avoirdupois  ounce  is  also  utilized.  The 
avoirdupois  ounce  contains  437  grains ;  the  Troy  ounce 
contains  480  grains.  The  grain  is  of  similar  value  in  both 
systems. 

TROY,  OR  apothecaries'  WEIGHT. 


Weight 

Sign 

Latin  name 

Pound 

lb 

Libra 

Ounce 

I 

Uncia 

Drachm 

3 

Drachma 

Scruple 

3 

Scrupulum 

Grain 

gr. 

Granum 

PRESCRIPTION  WRITING 


89 


WINE   MEASURE. 

Measure 

Sign 

Latin  Name 

Gallon 

C 

Congius 

Pint 

O 

Octarius 

Fluid  Ounce     . . . 

Fl.  I       .... 

Fluida  Uncia 

Fluid  Drachm  . . . 

Fl.  3       .... 

Fluida  Drachma 

Minim 

n 

Minimum 

A  drop  is  often  used  synouymously  with  minim,  which 
is  correct  if  the  substance  spoken  of  is  water,  or  a  liquid  of 
nearly  similar  density.  If  the  liquid  is  not  of  similar  den- 
sity, then  a  minim,  or  the  sixtieth  part  of  a  drachm,  is  far 
from  being  a  drop  as  measured  by  dropping  a  liquid  from 
any  ordinary  utensil.  Any  amount  from  45  drops  to  276 
drops,  measured  in  this  way,  may  be  obtained  from  a 
drachm  of  fluid,  according  to  its  density,  mode  of  dropping, 
and  kind  of  vessel  from  which  it  is  dropped. 

A  gutta  (gti),  then,  is  of  no  fixed  value,  but  means  a 
drop  as  dropped  from  a  vessel;  while  a  minim  is  always  the 
sixtieth  part  of  a  drachm. 

RELATIVE  VALUE  OF  UNITS  IN  THE  WINE  MEASURE. 


c 

0                ! 

3 

ra 

IC 

=        8        =        128 

:= 

1024 

:= 

61,440 

Oi.     =          16 

= 

128 

= 

7,680 

li. 

= 

8 

= 

480 

3i. 

= 

60 

RELATIVE  VALUE  OP 

UNITS 

IN  TROY 

SYSTEM. 

lb 

I                       3 

3 

Gr. 

1 

=      13        =          96 

= 

288 

= 

5,760 

11.      =            8 

= 

24 

^  _ 

480 

3i. 

= 

3 

= 

60 

Si. 

= 

20 

The  abbreviation,  FL,  is  usually  omitted  in  prescription 
writing,  as  referring  to  fluids,  the  character  of  the  prepara- 
tion being  sufficiently  apparent.  The  Roman  numerals  are 
used  to  express  the  quantities  employed.  The  Roman 
numerals  are  written  under  a  horizontal  line,  the  i's  or  j's 
are  dotted  (they  are  identical  in  Latin)  and  the  dot  serves 
to  enforce   and   check  the  numbers  used.     Fractions   are 


90  PRESCRIPTION  WRITING 

usually  expressed  in  ordinary  Arabic  characters,  except  J, 
which  is  often  indicated  by  a  double  s  (ss),  standing  for 
semis,  the  Latin  for  one-half. 

APPROXIMATE  EQUIVALENTS  OP  WINE  UNITS  IN  DOMESTIC 
MEASURES. 

Teaspoon  =  3  i.-ii.  =  5  Cc. 

Desert  spoon  =  3  ii.  =  10  Cc. 

Table  spoon  =  §  ss.  =  15  Cc. 

Cup  =  3  iv.  =  120  Cc. 

Tumbler  =  §  viii.  =  260  Cc. 

There  are  usually  about  six  teaspooufuls  to  the  fluid 
ounce.  It  is  a  good  plan  to  have  some  regard  for  the  size 
of  vials  generally  kept  by  druggists,  and  to  write  for  a 
quantity  to  fill  the  bottle.  The  bottles  commonly  in  use  in 
human  and  canine  practice  are  the  2  and  4  drachm ;  the  1, 
2,  3,  4,  5,  6,  8, 12,  and  16  ounce. 

The  2  drachm  bottles  are  useful  for  measuring  the  dose 
of  fluid  extracts  for  horses ;  the  3  ounce  bottle  is  convenient 
in  writing  prescriptions  in  the  metric  system  for  dogs,  as  it 
holds  approximately  100  Cc.  The  4  ounce  bottle  is  the 
common  size,  employed  in  canine  practice,  containing  24 
doses  of  one  teaspoonful  each.  The  J  pt.  and  pt.  bottles 
are  more  appropriate  for  larger  animals.  The  metric  system 
will  be  described,  because  it  is  the  universal  system  em- 
ployed in  scientific  writings,  and  is  noW  official.  It  has  the 
advantage  of  being  arranged  decimally,  which  makes  the 
computation  of  percentages  easy,  and  the  transference  of  a 
quantity  of  one  denomination  to  that  of  another,  by  merely 
shifting  a  decimal  point.  The  system  has  another  value,  at 
least  theoretically,  in  having  one  unit  for  weights  and 
measures.  The  unit  of  the  fluid  measure  is  1  cubic  centi- 
meter of  water,  which  at  4P  Cent,  weighs  1  gram.  As  a 
matter  of  fact,  fluids  are  dispensed  in  the  metric  system  by 
measuring  them  in  Cc,  and  if  liquids  were  all  of  the  same 
density  as  water,  they  would  be  equivalent  to  grams  of 
water  when  measured  in  Cc.  Unfortunately  this  is  not  the 
case.      Theoretically,   medicine    should    be   dispensed    by 


PRESCEIPTION  WRITING  91 

weight  in  the  metric  system,  but  as  medicines,  when  given 
to  patients,  are  usually  measured  by  bulk,  they  cannot  be 
dispensed  by  weight  without  producing  a  complication. 
For  example,  suppose  that  we  order  chloroform  in  a  pre- 
scription in  the  metric  system, — 

I^  Chloroformi  30  | 

S.  Two  teaspoonfuls  in  water. 

John  Smith. 

thinking  we  are  dispensing  10  grams  *  for  a  teaspoonful 
holds  5  grams  of  water.  But  as  chloroform  weighs  ^  more 
than  water,  we  really  have  ordered  10  + 1-  =  15  Gm.  of  chloro- 
form. Therefore,  in  writing  a  prescription  for  chloroform  with 
other  ingredients;  weighed  in  Gm.,  we  would  have  to  add  ^ 
of  the  number  of  Gm.  of  chloroform  in  the  prescription  to  the 
number  previously  estimated  in  order  to  make  the  chloroform 
of  the  same  bulk  as  other  liquids  of  the  density  of  water. 

In  order  to  avoid  reducing  substances  of  density  differ- 
ing from  that  of  water,  to  terms  of  equivalency  with  that  of 
water,  it  is  the  custom,  and  now  official,  to  weigh  solids  in  Gm. 
and  measure  liquids  in  Cc.  This  is  an  exact  method  if  the 
doses  of  drugs  are  learned  in  the  same  way:  i.e.,  if  the  doses 
of  solids  are  learned  in  Gm.  and  prescribed  in  Gm.,  aud  the 
doses  of  liquids  are  learned  in  Cc.  and  prescribed  in  Cc. 

In  writing  prescriptions  in  the  metric  system  a  line  is 

drawn   perpendicularly  across   the   right-hand  side  of  the 

blank  to  indicate  the  decimal  point ;  multiples  of  the  unit 

being  placed  to  the  left   of   the   line,  while   fractions  are 

written  to  the  right  of  the  decimal  line.  In  using  this  system 

we  are  spared  the  annoyance  of  special  signs  and  different 

tables  for  weights  and  measures.     As  matters  now  stand  we 

must  be  cognizant  of  both  systems,  and  be  able  to  convert 

the  old  into  the  new,  or  vice  versa.     One  drachm  is  equivsi- 

lent  to  four  grams,  3  i.  =  Gm.  4    Therefore,  Gm.  1  =  3  ^  or 

Gr.  15.     Then,  Gr.  i.  =  ^ig^  of  Gm.  i.;  or 

15)  1.000  (.066 
90 

100 
90  • 


*For  each  dose. 


92  PRESCRIPTION  WRITING 

The  equivalent  of  Gr.l  is  Gm.  .06.  In  order  to  determine 
the  equivalent  of  fractions  of  a  grain  in  grams,  we  divide  .06 
by  the  denominator  and  multiply  the  result  by  the  numerator 
of  the  fraction  of  a  grain.     For  example  : 

Gr.  I  =  §  of  .06  Gm.;  as  .06  Gm.  =  Gr.  i.,  then 

3)  .06  (.02  X  «  =  .04.    Therefore,  Gr.  |  =  .04  Gm. 
6 

0 

Again:  to  find  the  equivalent  of  Gr.^  in  Gm. 

8)  .066  (.008  X  1  =  .008 
64 

2 
Therefore,  Gr.J  =  .008  Gm. 

We  stated  that  3  i.  =  4  Gm.  It  follows  that  §  i.  would 
equal  32  Gm.  As  a  fact,  3  i.  apothecaries'  weight,  is  equiva- 
lent to  a  trifle  less  than  Gm.  4.;  and  an  ounce,  apothecaries' 
weight,  is  usually  considered  equal  to  30  Gm.  (exactly  31.10 
Gm.)  for  the  sake  of  convenience.  A  fluid  ounce  in  wine 
measure  is  precisely  equivalent  to  29.57  Cc.  We  have  here 
another  reason  why  both  solid  and  fluid  ounces  should  be 
valued  at  30  Gm.  or  Cc.  Although  it  is  the  custom  to  regard 
the  minim  of  liquid  as  the  equivalent  of  one  grain,  it  is 
inexact.  An  apothecaries'  ounce  weighs  480  Gr.;  a  fluid  ounce 
of  wine  measure  weighs  457  Gr.  Multiple^  of  grams  or  cubic 
centimeters  may  be  designated  as  such,  instead  of  using  the 
technical  terms.  It  is  perfectly  proper  to  speak  of  100  Gm. 
as  one  hundred  grams,  although  technically  equal  to  a 
hectogram.  .1  Gm.  may  be  called  one-tenth  gram,  although 
technically  a  decigram.  Similar  remarks  apply  to  Cc,  yet 
1,C00  Cc.  (approximately  1  quart)  equal  one  liter,  and  this 
term  is  in  common  use. 

TABLE  OF  WEIGHT. — 

{Milligram 
Centigram 
Decigram 
Unit Gram 

{Decagram 
Hectogram 
Kilogram 


-METRIC 

SYSTEM. 

— 

001 

;= 

01 

— 

1 

— 

1 

^^ 

10 

I        — 

100 

= 

1000 

PRESCRIPTION   WRITING 


93 


TABLE  FOR  CONVERTING  APOTHECARIES     WEIGHTS   AND 
MEASURES  INTO   GRAMS  AND  CUBIC   CENTIMETERS.* 


SOLIDS. 

FLUIDS. 

Troy  Weight. 

Metric. 

Apothecaries' 
Measure. 

Metric. 

Grains. 

Grams. 

Minims. 

Cc. 

W4 

.001 

1 

.06 

X 

.0015 

2 

.12 

^ 

.002 

3 

.18 

Vs 

.003 

4 

.24 

s 

.004 

5 

.30 

1^ 

.005 

6 

*     .36 

s 

.006 

7 

.43 

? 

.008 

8 

.50 

.010 

9 

.55 

1 

.016 

10 

.60 

.02 

15 

.72 

i 

.03 

16 

1.00 

1 

.065 

20 

1.25 

2 

.13 

25 

1.55 

3 

.20 

30 

1.90 

4 

.26 

35 

2.20 

5 

.32 

40 

2.50 

6 

.39 

48 

3.00 

8 

.52 

50 

3.12 

10 

.65 

60(f  3i.) 

3.75 

15 

1.00 

72 

4.50 

20  Oi.) 

1.30 

80 

5.00 

24 

1.50 

90 

5.60 

26 

1.62 

96 

6.00 

30 

1.95 

100 

6.25 

40 

2.60 

120 

7.50 

50 

3.20 

160 

10.00 

60  ( 3  i.) 

3.90 

180 

11.25 

120  ( 3  ii.) 

7.80 

240  (f  §  ss.) 

15.00 

180 

11.65 

f  3v. 

18.75 

240 

15.50 

f  3vi- 

22.50 

300 

19.40 

f  3  vii. 

26.25 

360 

23.30 

f  !i. 

30  00 

420 

27.20 

f  !ii. 

60.00 

480 

31.10 

f  §  iii. 

90.00 

!"• 

63.20 

f  ?iv. 

120.00 

1  iv. 

124.40 

f  !v. 

150  00 

1  vi- 

186.60 

f  !vi. 

180.00 

I  viii. 

248.80 

f  |viii. 

240.00 

94 


PRESCRIPTION  WRITING 


METRIC  WEIGHTS. 

EXACT  EQUIVALENTS  IN 

APPROXIMATE  EQUIVA- 

GRAINS. 

LENTS  IN   GRAINS. 

.001 

.0154 

e^ 

.002 

.0308 

K 

.003 

.0463 

S 

.004 

.0617 

iS 

.005 

.0771 

^ 

.006 

.0926 

S 

.007 

.1080 

i 

.008 

.1234 

i 

.009 

.1389 

.01 

.1543 

JL 

.02 

.3086 

i 

.03 

.4630 

A 

.04 

.6173 

/t 

.05 

.7717 

f 

.06 

.9260 

A 

.07 

1.0803 

1 

.08 

1.2347 

n 

.09 

1.3890 

H 

.10 

1.543 

n 

.20 

3.086 

3 

.30 

4.630 

H 

.40 

6.173 

6 

.50 

7.717 

n 

.60 

9.260 

9 

.70 

10.803 

11 

.80 

12.347 

12i 

.90 

13.890 

14 

1.00 

15.432 

15 

2.00 

30.864 

3SS. 

3.00 

46.296 

Bii. 

4.00 

61.728 

3i. 

500 

77.160 

3iv. 

6.00 

92.592 

3iss. 

7.00 

108.024 

Bvss. 

8.00 

123.456 

3ii. 

9.00 

138  888 

Bvii. 

10.00 

154.320 

3iiss. 

*  Tables  from  Mann's  Prescription  Writing. 


Rules  for  Forming  the  Genitive  Case  in 
Prescription  Writing. 

The  Latin  names  of  drugs,  as  we  learn  them,  when 
consisting  of  a  single  word,  are  in  the  nominative  case.  For 
example  :  oleum,  an  oil.  The  genitive  case  of  a. Latin  word 
means  of  (the  word),  and  is  equivalent  to  the  English  pos- 


PRESCRIPTION  WRITING  95 

sessive.  Thus  the  Latin  name  Oleum  Lini,  consists  of  two 
words.  The  first,  oleum,  is  the  Latin  nominative  for  oil,  and 
the  second  word,  lini,  is  the  Latin  genitive  of  the  word  meaning 
linseed.  The  name  signifies,  then,  oleum  (oil)  and  lini  (of 
linseed).  In  writing  prescriptions  it  is  usually  essential  to 
put  the  Latin  name  of  the  drug  in  the  genitive  case,  follow- 
ing the  use  of  the  heading  9  >  standing  for  the  Latin  imper- 
ative Recipe,  meaning  in  English,  Take. 
For  example  ; 

Potassii  nitratis §  i. 

Literally  translated  this  means  : 

Take 

Of  potassium  nitrate,  ounce  1. 

There  is  only  one  other  case  which  is  used  in  writing 
prescriptions  (the  accusative),  but  this  can  be  avoided  by 
using  abbreviations  in  the  few  instances  in  which  it  should 
be  employed.  The  following  rules  can  be  memorized  (with 
their  exceptions)  in  order  to  form  the  genitive  case  (singular): 

(1)  Latin  names  of  drugs  ending  in  "a"  form  their 
genitive  in  cie.  The  only  exceptions  are  three  :  Physostigma 
takes  the  genitive  in  tis,  physostigmatis.  Folia  (leaves),  pi. 
genitive,  foliorum.  Theoh'oma,  genitive  theohromatis.  In 
most  instances  the  genitive  of  Latin  nouns  ending  in  a,  can 
be  made  in  practice  by  dropping  the  nominative  ending  (a) 
and  adding  ae  in  its  place,  viz. :  Tindur-a  (a  tincture),  gen- 
itive tindur-ae  (of  a  tincture). 

(2)  All  pharmacopoeial  nouns  ending  in  us,  um>  (os  and  on), 
form  their  genitive  in  i.  This  genitive  case  can  be  formed 
in  practice  by  dropping  the  nominative  ending  (us  or  wn) 
and  adding  i  in  its  place,  viz. :  bol-us,  a  ball ;  genitive  hol-i,  of 
a  ball.  Extrad-um,  an  extract ;  genitive  extrad-i,  of  an 
extract. 

The  nouns  ending  in  os  and  on  are  very  few.  Excep- 
tions :  Bhus,  genitive  rhois.  Flos,  genitive  floris.  Frudus, 
quercus  and  spiritus  do  not  change  in  the  genitive,  as  it  is  the 
same  as  the  nominative  case. 


96  PRESCRIPTION  WRITING 

(3)  All  other  Latin  names  of  drugs,  of  whatever  ter- 
mination (except  those  ending  as  described  under  rules  1 
and  2)  have  their  genitive  in  s  smd  is. 

The  genitive  case  can  be  formed  in  practice,  in  some 
instances,  by  adding  is  to  the  nominative,  as,  for  example, 
chloral,  genitive  chloral-is ;  aether,  genitive  aether-is.  To 
many  nouns  ending  in  the  nominative  in  as  or  is,  we  not 
only  add  is  to  the  nominative,  but  also  change  the  latter 
letter  of  the  nominative  case.  For  instance,  to  sulphas 
(sulphate)  not  only  do  we  add  is,  salphas-is,  but  we  change 
the  latter  letter,  s,  of  sulphas  into  a  t,  so  that  the  proper 
genitive  of  sulphas  is  sulphat-is. 

The  same  remark  applies  to  all  the  other  Latin  names  of 
salts,  as  sulphis,  genitive  sulphit-is ;  nitras,  genitive  nitrat-is ; 
hydrochloras,  genitive  hydrochlorat-is ;  citras,  genitive 
citrat-is ;  phosphas,  genitive  phosphat-is  ;  acetas,  genitive 
acetat-is.  Cortex  is  not  cortex-is  in  the  genitive,  but  corticis. 
Mas,  genitive  not  mas-is,  but  maris.  Adeps,  genitive  not 
adeps-is,  but  adipis.  Mucilago,  pepo  and  pulvis  lengthen 
and  change  in  the  genitive  to  mucilagin-is,  pepon-is  and 
pulver-is.  Aloe,  genitive  not  aloeis,  but  aloes,  adding  s  and 
not  is. 

(4)  Some  Latin  names  of  drugs  do  not  change  their 
ending  in  the  genitive  because  indeclinable  and  not  latinized^ 
or  else  they  belong  to  the  fourth  declension,  where  the 
genitive  case  is  the  same  as  the  nominative.  Examples : 
Spiritus,  quercus  and  fructus,  already  mentioned,  as  excep- 
tions to  rule  2.  Cannabis,  digitalis,  sinapis  and  hydrastis. 
The  genitive  of  these  nouns  is  the  same  as  the  nominative. 

The  following  are  indeclinable :  Amyl,  buchu,  catechu, 
coca,  curare,  jaborandi,  kino,  phenol,  salol,  naphtol,  thymol, 
menthol,  cusso,  etc. 

If  the  Latin  names  for  quantities,  and  amounts  thereof 
are  written  out  in  fall  (instead  of  using  signs  for  quantities, 
and  numbers  for  the  amounts),  the  quantities  and  amounts 
in  Latin  must  be  put  into  the  accusative  case,  as  they  are 
the  objects  of  the  verb,  recipe. 


PRESCRIPTI.ON  WRITINa  97 

For  example  : 

Sodii  Sulphatis,  uncias  duas. 

Translated  : 

Take 

Of  sodium  sulphate,  ounces  two. 

The  Latin  noun  tmcia  (ounce)  is  in  the  accusative  case, 
and  the  adjective  duas  is  also  in  the  accusative,  agreeing 
with  uncias.  But  to  write  out  prescriptions  in  full,  as  above, 
is  not  customary  and  would  be  considered  pedantic. 

Again :  The  Latin  names  of  the  ingredients  should  be 
written  in  the  accusative  case  when  no  noun  for  weight  or 
measure  is  employed.     For  example  : 

Pilulas  catharticas  conipositas  duas. 

Translated  literally  : 

Take 

Pills  cathartic  compound,  two.     Or,  take  two  compound 
cathartic  pills. 

Pilulas  (pills)  is  in  the  accusative,  object  of  the  verb 
recipe.  Catharticas,  compositas,  and  duas  are  adjectives, 
agreeing  with  pilulas.  We  can  only  write  this  prescription 
correctly,  without  using  the  accusative  case,  by  abbreviating 
it  as  follows : 

Pil.  Cath.  Co.  11. 


Examples  of  Prescriptions  for  Different 
Preparations. 

TO   WRITE   A  PRESCRIPTION   FOR  A   PILL. 

1.  We  calculate  the  number  of  pills  we  wish  to  pre- 
scribe and  then  multiply  the  dose  of  each  ingredient  in  the 
pill  by  that  number.  We  will  suppose  that  we  desire  to 
prescribe  30  pills  to  a  dog,  containing  reduced  iron,  soco- 
trine  aloes  and  sulphate  of  strychnine.     The  dose  of  reduced 


98  PRESCRIPTION  WRITING 

iron    is  gr.ii.;  of  socotrine  aloes  gr.ss.;  of  strychnine  sul- 
phate gr.y^.     Multiply  each  dose  by  30 : 

Reduced  iron gr.ii.     x  30  =  gr.60 

Aloes gr.%    X  30  =  gr.l5 

Strychnine gr.j^o  X  30  =  gr.i^ 

The  Latin  of  aloes  socotrine  is  aloe,  genitive  aloes,  of 
aloes ;  socotrinay  genitive  socotrin-ce,  of  socotrine. 

The  Latin  of  strychnine  sulphate  is  strychnina,  genitive 
strychnin-ce  of  strychnine  ;  sulphas ^  genitive  sulphaUis,  of 
sulphate. 

The  Latin  of  reduced  iron  is  ferrum^  genitive  ferr-i,  of 
iron :  reducturrif  genitive  reduct-ij  of  reduced.     Hence  : 

Ferri  reducti 3  i. 

Aloes  socotrinae gr.xv. 

StrychninaB  sulphatis gr.  ^ 

Misce  et  divide  in  pilulas xxx. 

(Abbreviated)     M.  et  div.  in  pil.  xxx. 

Signa.    Give  one  pill  three  times  daily. 

John  Smith. 

The  Latin  names  of  the  drugs  being  put  in  the  genitive, 

and  the  signs  and  numbers  for  the  proper  quantities  and 

amounts   added,  we   come   to  the  Latin  directions  to  the 

pharmacist.     (Misce)  mix  (et)  and  (divide)  divide  (in  pilulas, 

accusative  plural)  in  pills  xxx.     This  is  a  regulation  phrase 

and  can  be  employed  whenever  we  write  a  prescription  for 

pills,  so  that  it  should  be  memorized.     It  can  be  abbreviated 

correctly  as  follows  : 

M.  et  div.  in  pil.  xxx. 

Instead  of  writing  the  prescription  as  just  described,  we 
can  calculate  the  dose  needed  of  each  ingredient  in  the  pill, 
and  then  write  a  prescription  for  one  pill  and  direct  the 
pharmacist  to  make  30  pills  like  it. 

?-      Ferri  reducti gr.ii. 

Aloes  socotrinae gr.ss. 

Strychninae  sulphatis gr-Tiu 

Misce  et  fiat  pilula  1.;  dispense  pilulas  tales  numero 


PRESCRIPTION   WRITING  99 

(Abbreviated)  M.  et  f .  pil.  1.     Dispense  pil.  tales  No.  xxx. 
Signa  or  S.  (as  before.) 

Translated  :  (Misce)  mix  (et)  and  (fiat)  let  there  be  made 
(pilula)  pill  1 ;  (dispense)  dispense  (pilulas)  pills,  (tales)  such, 
(numero)  in  number,  xxx.  Abbreviated  as  above,  (Signa)  S. 
=  Label. 

The  same  prescription  may  be  written  in  the  metric 
system  :  Gr.l  =  .06  gm.  Fractions  of  a  grain  are  converted 
into  grams,  therefore,  by  dividing  .06  by  the  denominator  of 
the  fraction  and  multiplying  the  result  by  the  numerator. 
The  dose  of  aloes  (gr.J)  is  transformed  into  grams  then,  as 
follows : 

2)  .06(.03  X  1  =  .03 
.06 

00 

Or. jl-g-  is  converted  into  grams  thus  : 

120)  .0600  (  .0005  X  1  =  .0005  gm. 
600 


V^ 


Solids  in  Gm.     Liquids  in  Co. 

Ferri  reducti 12 

Aloes  socotrinae 03 

Strychninae  sulpliatis 0005 

M.  et  f .  pil.  1 ;  dispense  pil.  tales  No.  xxx. 
Sig.  (as  before). 

This  prescription  may  be  abbreviated  in  this  manner : 


Ferri  reducti. 

Aloes  soc 

Strych.  sulph. 
M.,  etc. 


12 
03 
0005 


Prescriptions  for  balls  are  calculated  and  written  in 
every  respect  like  those  for  pills.  We  may  write  the  above 
prescription  in  another  form,  in  case  we  prescribe  a  pill  or 
ball  mass  to  be  made,  or  an  official  mass  to  be  divided  into 
pills.  Suppose  we  write  a  prescription  for  a  physic  mass, 
suitable  for  horses.  We  conclude  to  write  for  a  quantity 
of  the  mass  sufficient  to  make  eight  balls.     Each  ball  con- 


100  PRESCRIPTION  WRITING 

tains  a  single  dose  of  aloes  and  sufficient  excipient  to  make 
the  mass  of  the  proper  cojisistency.  The  dose  of  aloes  is 
one  ounce,  and  we  know  by  experience  that  it  will  take  an 
equal  amount  of  molasses  and  one  drachm  of  powdered 
ginger  to  make  a  proper  ball  mass.  Multiplying  each  of  the 
ingredients,  then,  by  8,  we  find  we  need  8  ounces  each  of 
aloes  and  molasses,  and  1  ounce  of  pulverized  ginger,  to 
make  a  mass  which  shall  be  divided  into  8  balls. 

The  Latin  names  and  genitives  of  socotrine  aloes  we 
have  already  described.  Molasses  is  syrupus  fuscus  in 
Latin,  or  brown  syrup.  Syrupus^  genitive  syrup-i^  of  syrup. 
FusciLS,  genitive  fusciy  of  brown.  The  Latin  for  powdered 
ginger  is  pvlvis,  powder,  genitive  pulver-iSy  of  powder. 
Zingiber,  ginger,  genitive  zingiher-iSy  of  ginger. 

We  will  proceed  to  write  the  prescription  thus : 

Aloes  socotrinae 

Syrupi  fusci aa  1  viii. 

Pulveris  zingiberis §  i. 

Misce  et  fiat  massa,  in  bolos  viii.,  dividenda. 
(Abbreviated)    M.  et  f.  mass.,  in  bolos  viii.,  dividend. 

Sig.    Give  one  ball  at  once. 

John  Smith. 

The  Latin  directions  to  the  pharmacist  are  translated  : 
(Misce)  mix  (et)  and  (fiat)  let  there  be  made  (massa)  a  mass 
(in  bolos,  accusative  pi.),  in  balls  viii.  (dividenda)  to  be 
divided. 

This  is  also  a  stock  phrase  and  should  be  memorized  as 
applying  to  pills  or  balls  made  from  a  mass. 

The  prescription  is  abbreviated  : 

Aloes  soc. 

Syr.  fusci aa  §  viii. 

Pulv.  zingiber §  i. 

M.  et  f.  mass.,  in  bolos  viii.,  dividend. 
Or :        Misce  et  divide  in  bolos  viii. 
(Abbrev.)     M.  et  div.  in  bolos  viii. 
Translated :  Mix  and  divide  into  balls  8. 


PBESCRIPTION  WRITING  101 

Or  :  M.  et  facbolos  viii.  (abbrev.)  M.  et  f.  bolos  viii. 

Translated  :  Mix  and  make  balls  8.  * 

Mixtures  are  compounds  in  which  fluids  are  mixed  or 
solids  dissolved  or  held  in  suspension  by  a  suitable  vehicle, 
We  must  first  decide  upon  the  number  of  doses  which  we 
wish  to  prescribe,  and  then  the  quantity  of  the  mixture  to 
be  given  at  each  dose. 

Suppose  we  wish  to  give  sweet  spirit  of  nitre  and 
quinine  to  a  horse.  We  conclude  to  give  the  mixture  three 
times  daily  for  several  days.  The  dose  of  the  nitrous  ether 
will  be  an  ounce;  the  quinine  will  be  dissolved  in  it. 
Bottles  are  in  use  containing  12  to  16  ounces,  or  1  pint.  We 
will  decide  upon  the  pint  bottle.  This,  then,  will  hold  16 
ounces,  or  16  doses  of  sweet  spirit  of  nitre.  In  each  dose  of 
the  nitre  we  want  dissolved  gr.20  of  quinine  sulphate. 
16  X  gr.20  =  gr.320  =  3  v.  3i.  Now,  5  drachms  of 
quinine  sulphate  will  not  dissolve  in  16  ounces  of  sweet 
spirit  of  nitre,  so  that  we  will  add  enough  diluted  sulphuric 
acid  to  dissolve  the  quinine.  We  do  not  know  how  much 
sulphuric  acid  will  be  required,  so  we  write  after  acid  sul- 
phuric, Q.  S.,  for  quantum  sufiiciat,  ^.6.,  as  much  as  suffices 
(to  dissolve,  understood). 

Again,  we  do  not  know  exactly  how  much  bulk  the 
quinine  will  take  up  when  dissolved  in  the  nitre  ;  nor  what 
amount  of  acid  will  be  required.  Yet,  on  the  other  hand, 
we  want  to  fill  our  bottle.  To  get  over  these  difficulties  we 
will  write  after  sweet  spirit  of  nitre  ad,  underlined  (to) ;  in 
other  words,  we  order  the  druggist  to  take  of  sweet  spirit  of 
nitre  enough  to  (make,  understood)  a  pint. 

The  Latin  for  quinine,  is  quinina^  genitive  quinin-ce,  of 
quinine.  The  Latin  •  for  sulphate  is  sulpJias,  genative  stil- 
phat-is,  of  sulphate.  The  Latin  for  spirit  of  nitrous  ether 
is  spiritus,  genitive  spiritus,  of  spirit ;  nitrosus,  genitive 
nitros-t,  of  nitrous ;  cether,  genitive  ctther-iSf  of  ether.  The 
Latin  for  sulphuric  acid  diluted  is  acidum,  genitive  acid-% 
of  acid;  sulphuricu^,  genitive  sulphuric-i,  of  sulphuric; 
dilutus,  genitive  dilut-i,  of  diluted. 


102  PRESCRIPTION  WRITING 

We  may  now  write  our  prescription  as  follows : 

Quininse  sulphatis 3  v.  3i. 

Acidi  sulphurici  diluti Q.  S. 

Spiritus  setheris  nitrosi  ad Oi. 

Misce. 

(Furnish  3  i.  bottle  for  measure). 
Signa.     Small  bottleful  three  times  daily  in  half  a  pint  of  water. 

John  Smith. 
Abbreviated : 

Quin.  sulph 3v.  3i. 

Acid,  sulphurici  dil Q.  S. 

Spts.  aether,  nitrosi  ad Oi. 

M. 

S.  (as  above). 

We  will  write  a  prescription  for  a  mixture  containing 
12  doses  of  chloral  and  potassium  bromide  for  a  dog.  The 
quantity  of  the  mixture  given  at  each  dose  will  be  a  tea- 
spoonful.  Now,  there  are  six  teaspoonfuls  in  one  ounce. 
We  will  order  a  2-ounce  bottle,  which  will,  therefore,  hold 
12  doses  of  a  teaspoouful  each.  The  dose  of  chloral  is  gr.v. 
5  X  12  =  gr.60,  or  3i.  The  dose  of  potassium  bromide  is 
gr.x.  10  X  12  =  gr.l20,  or  3  ii.  Then  we  will  order  enough 
water  to  fill  the  bottle.  The  Latin  for  chloral  is  chloral, 
genitive  chloral-iSj  of  chloral ;  Latin  for  potassium  bromide 
is  potassium,  genitive  potassui,  of  potassium  ;  bromidum, 
genitive  hromid-i,  of  bromide ;  Latin  for  water  is  aqzux, 
genitive  aqu-ce,  of  water. 

9 

Chloralis 3  i. 

Potassi  bromidi , 3  ii. 

Aquae  ad 5  ii* 

M.        "^ 
Signa.    Teas,  in  1  tablespoonf  ul  of  water  every  3  hours. 

John  Smith. 

A  drench  is  a  mixture  which  is  given  the  horse  in  one 
dose.  We  will  write  a  prescription  for  a  horse,  containing 
ether,  chloroform  and  laudanum,  to  be  administered  as  a 
drench.  The  Latin  for  ether  is  cether,  genitive  cether-is,  of  ether; 


PRESCBIPTION   WRITING  103 

dose,  5  i.  The  Latin  for  chloroform  is  chloroformum,  geni- 
tive clilowform-i,  of  chloroform  ;  dose,  3  ii-  The  Latin  for 
laudanum  is  tinctura  opii ;  tinctura^  genitive  tinctur-cey  of 
tincture ;  opiums  genitive  opi-i,  of  opium  ;  dose,  §  ii.  The 
prescription  reads : 

^theris ^i. 

Chloroformi 3  ii. 

Tincturae  opii 3  ii. 

Misce  et  fiat  haustus. 

Translated :  (Misce)  mix,  (et)  and  (fiat)  let  there  be 
made  (haustus)  a  drench. 

(Abbreviated)    M.  et  f .  haust. 

Sig.     Give  at  once  in  one  dose  in  pint  of  water. 

John  Smith. 

In  writing  a  prescription  for  powders,  we  may  either 
write  for  one  powder  and  direct  the  druggist  to  dispense 
several  more  like  it,  or  write  for  the  whole  amount  of  the 
ingredients  and  order  them  divided  into  the  required  num- 
ber of  doses  or  papers.  In  the  first  case  we  will  write  for  a 
powder  containing  one  dose  of  each  of  the  drugs. 

For  example,  we  may  write  a  prescription  for  calomel 
and  santonin,  with  sugar  of  milk  as  an  excipient,  since  the 
dose  of  the  drug  is  inconveniently  small.  This  powder  is 
suitable  for  a  medium-sized  dog. 

The  Latin  for  calomel,  or  the  lower  chloride  of  mercury, 
is  hydrargyrum^  genitive  hydrargyr-i,  of  mercury ;  chlori- 
dum,  genitive  cliiorid-i,  of  chloride ;  mite,  genitive  mit-is,  of 
lower ;  dose,  gr.ii.  The  Latin  for  santonin  is  santoninurriy 
genitive  santonin-iy  of  santonin ;  dose,  gr.i.  The  Latin  for 
sugar  of  milk  is  saccharurriy  genitive  sacchar-iy  of  sugar ;  lac, 
genitive  lac-tis,  of  milk ;  amount,  gr.x.  The  prescription  will 
read : 

9 

Hydrargyri  chloridi  mitis gr.ii. 

Santonini gr.i. 

Sacchari  lactis gr.x. 

Misce  et  fiat  pulvis  1 ;  dispense  pulveres  tales  vi» 


104  PRESCRIPTION  WRITING 

Translated :  Mix,  and  let  there  be  made  powder  1 ;  dis- 
pense powders  such  vi. 

(Abbreviated)     M.  et  f .  pulv.  1;  dispense  pulv.  tales  vi. 

Sig.     Give  one  powder  every  tvro  hours. 

John  Smith. 

In  the  second  case,  if  we  write  a  prescription  for  six 
powders,  we  multiply  the  dose  of  the  ingredients  in  each 
powder  by  6,  and  then  order  the  prescription  to  be  dispensed 
in  six  papers. 

Hydrarg.  chlorid.  mitis gr.xii. 

Santonin gr.  vi. 

■  Sacch.  lactis 3  i. 

Misce  et  divide  inchartulas  numero..vi. 

Translated  :  Mix  and  divide  into  papers  in  number  vi. 
(Abbreviated)      M.  etdiv.  in  ch't.  No.  vi. 
Sig.  (as  before) . 

To  write  the  above  in  the  metric  system.  The  dose  of 
calomel  is  gr.ii.  =  .12  gm.  .12  X  6  =  .72,  or  gr.xii.  The  dose 
of  santonin  is  gr.i.  =  .06  gm.  .06  x  6  =  .36  gm.,  or  gr.vi. 
The  amount  of  sugar  of  milk  used  as  an  excipient  in  each 
powder  is  gr.x.  .06  X  10  =  .6  gm.,  the  amount  prescribed  in 
each  powder.  The  amount  necessary  for  six  powders  is 
.6x6  =  3.6  gm.,  approximately  4  gm. 

Solids  in  Gm.     Liquids  in  Cc. 

Hydrarg.  chlorid.  mitis I  72 

Santonin (36 

Sach.  lactis 4 

M.  et  div.  ch't.  in  No .vi. 

Sig.   (as  before). 

We  will  write  a  prescription  for  a  horse,  in  the  form  of 
a  powder,  containing  dried  iron  sulphate,  nux  vomica  and 
sodium  bicarbonate.  The  Latin  for  iron  sulphate  (dried)  is 
ferrum,  genitive  ferr-i,  of  iron  ;  svlphas^  genitive  sulphat-is, 
of  sulphate ;  exsiccatus,  genitive  exsiccat-i,  of  dried ;  dose, 
3  i.  The  Latin  for  nux  vomica  is  nux,  genitive  ntic-is,  of 
nut;  vomica,  genitive  vomic-ce,  of  vomica;   dose,  3i.     The 


PRESCRIPTION  WRITING  105 

Latin  of  sodium  bicarbonate  is  sodium^  genitive  sodi-i,  of 
sodium ;  bicarhonas,  genitive  bicarhonat-is,  of  bicarbonate. 
We  will  order  a  sufficient  quantity  of  the  ingredients  to 
make  thirty  powders.  The  dose  of  iron  and  nux  vomica  is 
3  i.  X  30  =  5  iii->  3  vi.  The  dose  of  sodium  bicarbonate 
is  3  ii.  X  30  =  J  vii.ss. 

5  .       . 

Ferri  sulphatis  exsiccati 

Pulveris  nucis  vomicae aa  ^iii.,  3  vi. 

Sodii  bicarbonatis §  vii.ss. 

Misce  et  divide  in  chartulas  xxx. 

Translated  :  Mix  and  divide  into  papers  xxx. 

(Abbreviated)     M.  et  div.  in  ch't.  xxx. 

Sig.     Give  one  powder  three  times  daily  on  the  food. 

John  Smith. 

In  order  to  avoid  the  expense  of  having  powders  divided 
into  papers,  we  may  frequently  direct  one  dose  to  be 
weighed  by  the  druggist,  and  a  measure  to  be  furnished 
holding  the  quantity. 

Ferri  sulph.  exsicc. 

Pulv.  nucis  vom aa  §  iii.,  3  vi. 

Sod.  bicarb §  vii.ss. 

Misce  et  fiat  pulvis. 
Translated  :  Mix  and  let  there  be  made  a  powder. 
{Abbreviated)     M.  et  f.  pulv.    (Furnish  measure  holding  ^  ss.) 
Sig.    Give  measureful  on  food  three  times  daily. 

John  Smith. 

To  transform  this  prescription  into  terms  of  the  metric 
system:  ^i.  =  Gm.30.;  3i-  =  Gm.4.  Hence  §iii.,  3  vi.  = 
Gm.ll4;  §  viiss.  =  Gm.225. 

9 

Solids  in  Gm.    Liquids  in  Co. 

Ferri  sulph.  exsicc. 

Pulv.  nucis  vom .aa  114 

Sodii  bicarb 225 

M.  et  f.  pulv.,  etc. 
S.    (as  before). 


106  PRESCllIPTION  WRITING 

Electuaries  are  not  suitable  preparations  in  which  to 
prescribe  powerful  drugs,  as  we  cannot  secure  any  degree 
of  accuracy  in  the  dosage.  This  happens  because  we  do  not 
usually  know  the  exact  amount  of  excipient  which  will  be 
required  to  make  the  paste  of  the  proper  consistency.  We 
will  write  for  an  electuary  containing  potassium  chlorate^ 
licorice  and  molasses.  The  Latin  for  potassium  chlorate  is 
potassium,  genitive  potassi-i,  of  potassium  ;  chloras,  genitive 
cMorat-is,  of  chlorate  ;  dose,  3  ii.  The  Latin  for  powder  of 
licorice  root  is  (powder  has  been  given  before)  glycyrrhiza, 
genitive  glycyrrhiz-ce,  of  licorice ;  radix,  genitive  radic-is,  of 
root.  The  Latin  for  molasses  is  syrupus,  genitive  syrup-i,  of 
syrup ;  fuscus,  genitive /wsc-t,  of  brown ;  dose  of  licorice  root 
and  molasses  immaterial.     They  are  used  as  excipienta. 

Potassi  chloratis. 

Pulveris  glycyrrhizsB  radicis  .  .aa. .  §  iv. 

Syrupi  fusci Q.S. 

Misce  et  fiat  electuarium. 
Translated:  Mix  and  let  there  be  made  an  electuary. 
(Abbreviated)  M.  et  f.  electuarium. 

(Weigh  3  vi.  as  sample). 
S.     Give  amount  equal  to  sample  every  2  hours  smeared  on  teeth. 

John  Smith. 

We  cannot  tell  precisely  what  quantity  of  potassium 
chlorate  will  be  administered  in  the  3  vi.  ordered  in  this 
prescription,  but  we  can  be  assured  that  it  will  not  be  larger 
than  3  drachms,  which  is  a  small  dose  for  the  horse. 

Suppositories  are  occasionally  prescribed  to  dogs.  The 
excipient  is  cacao  butter,  of  which  about  15  grains  is 
required.  We  will  write  a  prescription  containing  iodoform 
and  extract  of  Belladonna  root,  to  be  dispensed  in  suppos- 
itories for  a  medium-sized  dog.  The  Latin  for  iodoform  is 
iodoformum,  genitive  iodoform-i,  of  iodoform;  dose,  gr.^. 
The  Latin  for  extract  of  belladonna  root  is  belladonna, 
genitive  helladonn-ce,  of  belladonna;  extractum,  genitive 
extract-if  of  extract ;  radix,  genitive  radic-is,  of  root ;  dose, 
gr.|.      The   Latin  for   cacao    butter    is  oleum    theohrormi  / 


PRESCRIPTION  WRITING  107 

oleunij  genitive  oh-i,  of  oil ;  theohroma,  genitive  theohrom- 
atis,  of  theobroma.  The  quantity  of  cacao  butter  may  be 
safely  left  to  the  discretion  of  the  pharmacist.  We  will 
multiply  the  dose  by  ten,  to  make  ten  suppositories. 

lodoformi gr.v. 

Extract!  belladonnse  radicis gr.ii.ss. 

Olei  theobromatis Q.S. 

Misce  et  fiant  suppositoria  x. 
Translated:  Mix  and  let  there  be  made  suppositories  x. 
(Abbreviated)    M.  et  f.  suppos.  x. 

Sig.     Introduce  one  into  the  bowel  every  4  hours. 

John  Smith. 

In  writing  prescriptions  for  ointments  the  degree  of 
dilution  of  the  medicinal  substance,  or  substances,  must  be 
determined.  In  case  the  dilution  is  done  in  percentage,  the 
metric  system  is  particularly  useful.  A  five-per-cent.  oint- 
ment of  the  yellow  oxide  of  mercury  is  of  value  in  some 
cases  of  conjunctivitis.     We  will  write  for  5  Gm. 

The  Latin  for  yellow  oxide  of  mercury  is  hydrargyrum 
oxidum  flavurn;  hydrargyrum^  genitive  hydrargyr-%  of 
mercury  ;  oxidum^  genitive  oxid-iy  of  oxide ;  flavurn^  genitive 
flavi,  of  yellow. 

The  excipient  will- be  simt)le  ointment.  Latin  for  simple 
ointment  is  unguentum^  genitive  unguent-iy  of  ointment.  If 
we  order  5  gm.  of  simple  ointment  we  can  determine  the 
amount  of  mercury  necessary  to  form  a  5-per-cent.  prepara- 
tion with  it  by  simply  moving  the  decimal  line  forward  two 
places,  .05,  which  will  give  a  1-per-cent.  ointment  of  mer- 
cury ;  and  then,  by  multiplying  by  5,  .05  X  5  =  .25,  we 
secure  a  5-per-cent.  ointment. 

Solids  in  Gm.     Liquids  in  Cc. 

Hydrargyri  oxidi  flavi 25 

Unguenti , .  5 

Misce  et  fiat  unguentum. 
Translated  :  Mix  and  let  there  be  made  an  ointment. 
(Abbreviated)    M.  et  f.  ung. 

Sig.    Use  externally.  John  Smith. 


108  PRESCRIPTION  WRITING 

There  is  nothing  of  special  note  to  consider  in  regard 
to  writing  prescriptions  for  liniments.  We  will  write  a 
prescription  for  Carron  oil  as  an  example. 

Carron  oil  is  composed  of  equal  volumes  of  solution  of 
lime  and  cottonseed  oil.  The  Latin  for  oil  of  cottonseed  is 
oleum  gossipii  seminis  ;  cH^um,  genitive  6k-i,  of  oil ;  gossypium, 
genitive  gossypi-i,  of  cotton;  semeUj  genitive  semin-is,  of 
seed.  The  Latin  for  solution  of  lime  is  liquor  colds; 
liquor,  genitive  liquor-is,  of  liquor ;  ccdx,  genitive  cah-is,  of 
lima 

Liquoris  calcis. 

Olei  gossypii  seminis aa  §  iii. 

Misce  et  fiat  linimentum. 

Translated :  Mix  and  let  there  be  made  a  liniment. 

(Abbreviated)    M.  et  f .  liniment. 

Sig.    Apply  externally. 

John  Smith. 


J 


CLASSIFICATION. 

PART  I. 

Inorganic  Agents. 

Section  I. — Water,  and  Solution  of  Hydrogen  Dioxide. 

Section  II.— Alkaline  Metals  ;    Potassium,  Sodium,   Ammonium   and 

Lithium. 
Section  III. — Alkaline  Earth  Metals;    Calcium,  Barium,  Magnesium, 

Aluminum  and  Cerium. 
Section  IV. — Plumbum,  Argentum,  Zincum,  Cupnmi,  and  Bismuthum* 
Section  V. — Ferrum,  Mariganum. 
Section  VI. — Hydrargyrum. 
Section  VII. — Arsenic,  Antimony. 
Section  VIII. — Phosphorus. 
Section  IX.— Chlorine,  Iodine,  Bromine. 
Section  X. — Sulphur. 
Section  XI. — Acids. 
Section  XII.— Carbon  Compounds. 

Class  1.  Carbon. 

Class  2.  Alcohol,  Ether,  Chloroform. 

Class  3.  Nitrites. 

Class  4.  Chloral. 

Class  5.  Antipyretics,  Analgesics. 

Class  6.  Antiseptics. 

Class  7.  Miscellaneous  Carbon  Compounds. 


PART  II. 
Vegetable  Drugs. 

Section  I. — Drugs  acting  on  the  brain. 

Class  1.  Depressing  the  brain  ;  Opium. 

Class  3.  Stimulating  the  brain  ;  Belladonna. 
Section  II. — Drugs  acting  on  the  spinal  cord. 

Class  1.  Stimulating  the  inferior  cornua  ;  Nux  Vomica,  Strychnine. 

Class  2.  Depressing  the  inferior  cornua  ;  Physostigma,  Gelsemium. 
109 


110  CLASSIFICATION 

Section  III. — Drugs  acting  on  the  spinal  cord  and  motor  nerves. 

Class  1.  Depressing  the  inferior  comua  and  motor  nerves ;  Tobacco 
and  Conium. 

Section  IV. — Drugs  acting  on  the  sensory  nerves. 

Class  1.  Depressing  the  sensory  nerves  ;  Cocaine,  Eucain,  Holocain. 
Section  V. — Drugs  acting  on  the  secretory  nerves. 

Class  1.  Stimulating  the  secretory  nerves  ;  Pilocarpus. 
Section  VI. — Drugs  acting  on  the  heart. 

Class  1.  Increasing  the  force  and  decreasing  the  frequency  of  the 

heart ;  Digitalis,  Strophanthus,  Convallaria  and  Squill. 
Class  2.  Decreasing  the  force  and  frequency  of  the  heart ;  Aconite, 
Veratrum  Viride  and  Album,  Veratrine. 

Section  VII. — Drugs  acting  on  the  respiration. 
Ipecac. 

Section  VIII. — Vegetable  Antipyretics  and  Antiseptics. 

Class  1.  Cinchona  and  its  Alkaloids. 

Class  2.  Salicylic  Acid,  Salicin,  Salol,  Oil  of  Gaultheria  and  Methyl 
Salicylate. 
Section  IX.— Volatile  Oils  or  Drugs  containing  them. 

Class  1.  Used  mainly  for  their  action  on  the  skin  :  Turpentine,  Oil 
of  Turpentine,  Terebene,  Terpin  Hydrate,  JBurgundy 
Pitch,  Canada  Turpentine,  Resin,  Tar,  Pitch,  Oil  of  Cade, 
Balsam  of  Peru,  Balsam  of  Tolu,  Benzoin,  Benzoic  Acid, 
Black  and  White  Mustard,  Eucalyptus,  Arnica,  Myrrh. 

Class  2.  Used  mainly  for  their  stomachic  and  carminative  action 
upon  the  digestive  tract :  Capsicum,  Ginger,  Peppermint, 
Menthol,  Spearmint,  Anise,  Cardamon,  Coriander,  Fennel, 
Fenugreek. 

Class  3.  Used  mainly  for  their  antispasmodic  action  in  stimulating 
the  nervous  system  :  Valerian,  Ammonium,  Ferric  and 
Zinc  Valerianates,  Assafoetida  and  Ammoniacum. 

Class  4.  Used  mainly  for  their  stimulant  and  diuretic  action  on  the 
genito-urinary  tract :  Buchu  and  Oil  of  Juniper. 

Class  5.  Used  mainly  for  its  emmenagogue  action  on  the  female 
generative  organs  ;  Savin. 

Section  X. — Vegetable  Bitters.— Gentian,  Quassia,  Cascarilla,  Calumba, 

Taraxacum,  Hydrastus,  Calamus. 
Section  XI. — Vegetable  Cathartics. 

Class  1.  Simple  Purgatives. — Aloes,  Linseed  Oil,  Castor  Oil,  Rham- 
nus  Purshiana,  Frangula,  Rhamnus  Catharticus,  Rhubarb 
(Chrysarobin),  Senna. 


I 


CLASSIFICATION  111 

Class  2.  Drastic  Purgatives. — Croton  Oil,  Scammony,  Jalap,  Gam- 
boge, Elaterin,  Colocynth. 
Class  3.  Chologogue  Purgatives. — Podophyllum,  Podophyllin. 
Section  XII. — Tannic  Acid  and  Drugs  containing  it. 

Nutgall,  Tannic  Acid,  Gallic  Acid,  Pyrogallol,  White  Oak, 
Catechu,  Kino,  Krameria,  Haemotoxylon,  Hamamelis. 

Section  XIII. — Vegetable  Demulcents. 

Olive  Oil,  Cottonseed  Oil,  Soap,  Soft  Soap,  Glycerin,  Linseed, 
Acacia,  Tragacanth,  Althaea,  Sugar. 

Section  XIV. — Vegetable  Drugs  killing  Parasites. 

Class  1.  Used   to    destroy    tape    worms :    Aspidium,  Areca    Nut, 

Kamala,  Kouso,  Granatum. 
Class  2.  Used  to  destroy  round  worms  :  Santonica.    . 
Class  3.  Used  to  destroy  oxyurides:  Quassia. 
Class  4.  Used  to  destroy  lice:  Stavesacre. 
Class  5.  Used  to  destroy  fleas:  Pyrethrum. 

Section  XV.— Vegetable  Drugs   stimulating    unstriated    muscle,   par- 
ticularly of  the  uterus. 

Ergot,  Cotton  Root  Bark. 
Section  XVI. — Colchicum. 
Section  XVII. — Vegetable  Drugs  acting  mechanically. 

Starch,  Oil  of  Theobroma,  Purified  Cotton,  Pyroxylin,  Collodion, 
Euphorbium. 
Section  XVIII.— Medicinal  Agents  of  Animal  Origin. 

Cantharides,  Lard,  Suet,  Hydrous  Wool  Fat,  Yellow  and  White 
Wax,  Spermaceti,  Honey,  Milk,  Sugar,  Pepsin,  Pancreatin, 
Ox  Gall,  Papain,  Cod  Liver  Oil,  Ichthyol,  Thiol. 


NOTE. 


ABBREVIATIONS  USED  IN   REFERENCE  TO   THE  SYNONYMS  IN  THE 
DfesCRIPTIONS  OF  DRUGS. 

B.  P. . .  British  Pharmacopoeia. 

E English. 

P.  G.  ...German  Pharmacopoeia. 

Fr French. 

G German. 

Three  doses  of  each  medicine  are  usually  given;  one  for  horses  and 
cattle;  one  for  sheep  and  swine,  and  one  for  cats  and  dogs,  unless 
otherwise  specified.  The  quantities  are  expressed  in  units  of  the  Apothe- 
caries' Weight  or  Wine  Measure  and  also  in  the  metric  system.    The 


112  CLASSIFICATION 

solids  in  the  latter  to  be  dispensed  in  grams,  the  liquids  in  cubic  centi- 
meters. Only  those  official  drugs  and  preparations  of  the  United  States 
and  British  Pharmacopoeia's  will  be  mentioned,  which  are  considered  to 
be  of  value  to  practitioners  of  Veterinary  Medicine.  In  connection 
with  doses  the  following  abbreviations  are  used  : 

H Horse. 

C Cattle. 

Sh.  &  Sw.  .Sheep  and  Swine. 
D Dogs. 

The  same  dose  may  be  given  to  either  dogs  or  cats  of  equal  weight* 


PART  I. 
INORGANIC  AGENTS. 


SECTION  I. 

Water. 

Aqua,  Water.     Aqua  Destit.lata,  Distilled  Water.     H2O. 
(The  latter  used  in  filling  many  prescriptions.) 

Action  external. — The  reader  is  referred  to  special  articles 
on  "  Cold  and  Heat "  (p.  673  ),  "  Food  and  Feeding  "  (p.  648  ) 
and  "  Counter  Irritants"  (p.  665  ),  for  details  concerning  the 
action  and  uses  of  water,  respectively,  as  a  medium  of  heat 
and  cold,  as  an  article  of  diet  in  health  and  disease,  and  as 
a  counter  irritant.  Cold  water,  externally,  at  first  stimulates 
reflexly  heat  production,  with  slight  rise  of  temperature, 
increased  carbonic  acid  elimination  and  contraction  of  the 
vessels  and  muscles  of  the  skin.  If  the  cold  water  applica- 
tion is  continued,  the  bodily  heat  falls,  owing  to  physical 
abstraction  of  heat.  *'  Reaction "  follows  the  removal  of 
cold,  if  properly  applied,  with  dilatation  of  the  superficial 
vessels  (and  sensation  of  warmth  and  exhilaration  in  man). 
Moderate  warm  water  (105°  F.)  applications  stimulate  cuta- 
neous vascularity,  favor  diarphoresis,  and  diminish  urinary 
secretion.  Hot  water  (110^-120°  F.)  applications  act  as 
counter  irritants  in  dilating  the  peripheral  vessels,  contract- 
ing those  in  more  remote  parts,  and  relieving  pain,  spasm, 
congestion  and  inflammation. 

Action  internal. — Water  is  quickly  absorbed  and  thus 
swells  the  secretion  of  urine,  and,  to  a  less  extent,  that  of 
bile,  saliva  and  pancreatic  juice.  Intestinal  peristalsis  is 
facilitated  by  a  considerable  amount  of  water.  Water  also 
increases  tissue  change,  and  elimination  of  carbonic  dioxide 
and  urea  ;  promotes  the  appetite  and  washes  out  the  tissues 
and  urinary  tract,  thus  removing  waste  matters  from  the  body. 

113 


114  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

The  elimination  of  uric  acid  is  lessened  by  water.  Large 
quantities  of  water,  if  not  taken  at  meal  time — when  they 
dilute  the  digestive  juices  and  disorder  digestion — favor  the 
formation  of  fat. 

Uses  interned. — Healthy  animals  may  be  given  as  much 
water  as  they  desire,  with  certain  restrictions  in  relation  to 
work  and  feeding.  It  is  unwise  to  allow  horses  much  water, 
either  immediately  before  or  after  severe  work,  or  after 
feeding.  If  water  is  given  before  severe  work  it  increases 
the  bulk  of  intestinal  contents,  is  apt  to  cause  digestive 
disturbance,  and  interferes  with  the  movements  of  the 
diaphragm.  For  these  same  reasons  water  should  only  be 
permitted  in  small  amount  (at  a  time)  in  "  heaves  "  of  horses. 

If  a  quantity  of  water  is  allowed  horses  after  hard  work, 
colic  is  very  likely  to  occur.  Working  horses  should, 
therefore,  be  watered,  in  reasonable  amount,  while  at  work ; 
and,  if  this  is  impracticable,  may  be  allowed  but  a  few 
mouthfuls  of  water,  or  a  gallon  of  oatmeal  gruel  after  severe 
work,  with  whole  hay  but  no  grain  until  after  an  hour's  rest. 
When  horses  at  rest  drink  much  water  after  eating,  the 
contents  of  the  stomach  (which  is  unusually  small  in  this 
animal)  are  washed  into  the  intestines  and  are  not  so 
thoroughly  digested.  This  accomplishes  two  bad  results: 
it  deprives  the  animal  of  some  nourishment  and  engenders 
digestive  trouble  and  diarrhoea. 

The  best  plan  is  to  give  resting  horses  water  before 
eating,  or  to  keep  it  at  their  command  at  all  times.  Cold 
water  is  desirable,  frequently  and  in  limited  quantities,  in 
fever,  although  there  is  a  popular  fear  of  it.  Hot  water 
assists  the  action  of  diarphoretics ;  cold  water  that  of 
diuretics.  Lukewarm  water  is  an  emetic,  but  hot  water,  in 
small  and  repeated  doses,  allays  nausea  and  vomiting.  Water 
is  restricted  in  ordinary  diarrhoeas,  obesity,  and  to  assist  the 
absorption  of  exudations.  The  drinking  of  water  should  be 
encouraged  by  a  liberal  allowance  of  salt  (which  in  itself  aids 
digestion),  in  animals  in  a  poor  condition,  to  increase  their 
appetite  and  flesh.     Water  is  valuable  in  diluting  a  con- 


I 


SOLUTION  OF  HYDROGEN  DIOXIDE  115 

centrated  urine  from  which  calculi  are  liable  to  be  deposited. 
High  rectal  injections  of  water  are  absorbed,  and  conse- 
quently flush  out  the  kidneys. 

Solution  of  Hydrogen  Dioxide. 

Aqua  Hydrogenii  Dioxidi.     Solution  of  Hydrogen  Dioxide. 

Synonym. — Hydrogen  Peroxide.  A  slightly  acid  aqueous 
solution  of  hydrogen  dioxide  (H2O2)  containing,  when  freshly 
prepared, about  3  per  cent,  by  weight,  of  the  pure  dioxide,  cor- 
responding to  about  10  volumes  of  available  oxygen.     U.S.P. 

Derivation. — Add  barium  dioxide,  300,  to  cold,  distilled 
water,  500 ;  agitate  and  keep  at  a  temperature  of  100°  C. 
(50^  F.j.  To  this  mixture  (of  barium  hydrate)  add  a  solu- 
tion of  phosphoric  acid,  96,  in  cold  distilled  water,  320,  and 
shake  them  together  thoroughly.  Filter,  and  wash  the 
precipitate  (barium  phosphate)  with  distilled  water  until  the 
filtrate  measures  1000.  Add  diluted  sulphuric  acid  to  the 
filtrate  (until  cloudiness  disappears  in  a  small  filtered  por- 
tion of  it ;  absence  of  barium),  and  starch  10.  Agitate  fre- 
quently.    Filter  and  refilter  till  the  solution  becomes  clear 

Properties. — A  colorless  liquid,  without  odor,  acidulous 
to  the  taste  and  producing  a  peculiar  sensation  and  soapy 
froth  in  the  mouth ;  liable  to  deteriorate  by  age,  exj^osure 
to  heat,  or  protracted  agitation.     Spec.  gr.  1,006  to  1,012. 

Keaction  slightly  acid.  When  exposed  to  the  air  at  the 
ordinary  temperature,  or  when  heated  in  a  water  bath  at  a 
temperature  not  exceeding  60^  C.  (140^  F.)  the  solution 
loses  chiefly  water.  When  rapidly  heated  it  is  liable  to 
decompose  suddenly.  (The  value  of  a  given  sample  of 
hydrogen  dioxide  may  be  roughly  ascertained  by  adding  a 
few  drachms  to  a  few  crystals  of  potassium  permanganate 
in  a  test  tube.  The  greater  the  amount  of  efi'ervescence  the 
better  the  hydrogen  dioxide. — Wallian.) 

Dose.—&.  k  C,  I  i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  D.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.) 

Action  and  Uses. — Hydrogen  dioxide  is  probably  the 
most  powerful  surgical  antiseptic  and  disinfectant  in  use. 


116  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

It  is  not  poisonous  to  higher  animals,  and  liberates  oxygen 
immediately  in  the  presence  of  oxidizable  matter,  thus 
destroying  all  bacteria  and  organized  ferments. 

The  microbicidal  action  is  transient  and  not  persistent; 
only  water  remains.  Therefore  hydrogen  dioxide  is  useless 
for  the  production  of  continuous  antiseptic  action.  The 
drug  is  an  antiseptic  in  the  digestive  tract,  and  some  oxygen 
may  be  absorbed  by  the  blood,  but  this  is  extremely  doubt- 
ful. The  ojfficial  solution  contains  10  volumes  of  oxygen ; 
that  is,  it  yields  up  10  times  its  bulk  of  oxygen  gas.  Most 
proprietary  preparations  are  stronger,  and  contain  12 
volumes  of  oxygen,  and  are  more  powerfully  disinfectant. 

Hydrogen  peroxide  is  particularly  valuable  as  an  anti- 
septic on  suppurating  and  septic  wounds,  necrosed  tissue, 
abscess  cavities,  sinus',  ulcers,  morbid  growths  and  suppur- 
ating mucous  membranes.  It  is  commonly  employed  in 
full  strength  and  only  in  glass,  porcelain,  or  hard  rubber 
vessels  or  instruments.  The  drug  should  not. be  used  in 
cavities  where  an  outlet  for  the  free  escape  of  gas  is  wanting. 
Peroxide  of  hydrogen  decomposes  pus  with  effervescence, 
and  thus  is  a  guide  to  its  presence  or  absence  ;  it  also 
destroys  the  pus  cocci. 

Hydrogen  dioxide  is  a  safe  and  efficient  agent  in  disin- 
fecting drinking  water,  and  is  of  some  value  in  gastric 
fermentative  indigestion. 


SECTION    II. 

Alkaline  Metals — Potassium,  Sodium,  Ammonium,  Lithium. 

Potassium. 

Potassium  is  not  used  in  medicine  in  the  metallic  state. 
Its  compounds  may  be  considered  in  three  groups  :  1.  Potassa. 
2.  The  Carbonates  (acetate  and  citrate).  3.  The  Mineral 
Salts. 

Potassium  compounds  were  formerly  obtained  from 
wood  ashes  by  lixiviation  ;  from  sea  water  by  evaporation, 


GENERAL  ACTION  OF  POTASSIUM  SALTS  117 

and  from  argol,  a  substance  deposited  in  wine  casks.  Now 
thej  are  obtained  from  potassium  muriate,  mined  in  Stass- 
furt,  Saxony,  which,  is  thought  to  result  from  the  boiling 
away  of  sea  water  in  past  ages. 

GENERAL  ACTION  OP  POTASSIUM  SALTS. 

In  lethal  doses  the  action  of  all  the  potassium  com- 
pounds is  very  similar. 

Stomach  and  Intestines, — The  potassium  salts,  with  the 
exception  of  the  vegetable  compounds,  are  irritants  to  the 
gastro-intestinal  tract,  if  ingested  in  concentrated  form. 

Heart. — Marked  depression  of  the  heart  is  one  of  the 
most  characteristic  symptoms  of  poisoning  by  the  potassium 
salts.  Potassium  has  a  direct,  paralyzing  action  on  the 
heart  muscle,  and  in  lethal  doses  there  is  cardiac  arrest  in 
diastole.  Much  the  same  action  is,  moreover,  observed  on 
all  the  higher  forms  of  tissue.  The  functional  activity  of 
the  nerves  and  muscles  is  depressed  and  abolished,  more 
especially  that  of  the  brain  and  cord,  so  that  paralysis  of 
central  origin  occurs. 

Blood. — It  has  been  taught  that  the  potassium  salts  give 
up  their  oxygen  to  the  blood.  In  the  case  of  the  nitrate 
and  chlorate  we  know  that  this  is  untrue,  since  they  are 
eliminated  unchanged.  When  given  for  any  considerable 
period,  the  potassium,  like  the  sodium  salts,  impoverish  the 
system  and  produce  a  more  fluid  state  of  the  blood.  Large 
doses  of  the  potassium  salts  are  likely  to  occasion  purging, 
while  small  doses  are  apt  to  cause  diuresis.  The  carbonates 
and  vegetable  salts  resemble  each  other  in  action,  but  that 
of  the  mineral  salts  is  peculiar  to  the  individual  compound. 

PoTASSA.     Potassa.     KOH.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonyms. — Potash, potassium  hydrate, potassium  liydi- 
oxide,  caustic  potash,  lapis  causticuschirurgorum,  E.;  potasse 
caustique,  Fr.;  aetz  kali,  G.;  kali  causticum  fusum,  P.  G. 

Derivation.  — A  solution  of  potassium  hydrate  is  evapor- 
ated ;  the  residue  is  fused  and  run  into  moulds. 


118 


INORGANIC  AGENTS 


Properties,— Dry,  white,  translucent  pencils  or  fused 
masses,  hard  and  brittle,  showing  a  crystalline  fracture; 
odorless,  or  having  a  faint  odor  of  lye^  and  of  a  very  acid 
and  caustic  taste.  Exposed  to  the  air,  it  very  rapidly 
absorbs  carbon  dioxide  and  moisture,  and  deliquesces. 
Soluble  at  15^  C.  (59^  R)  in  about  0.5  part  of  water,  and  ifa  2 
parts  of  alcohol ;  very  soluble  in  boiling  water  and  in  boiling 
alcohol ;  slightly  soluble  in  ether.* 

Liquor  Potass^e.     Solution  of  Potassa.     (U.  S.  <fe  B.  P.) 

An  aqueous  solution  of  potassium  hydrate  (KOH), 
containing  about  5  per  cent,  of  the  hydrate. 

Synonym. — Solution  of  potassium  hydrate,  kali  hydri- 
cum  solutum,  lixivium  causticum,  solution  of  potash,  E.; 
potasse  caustique  liquide,  lessive  caustique,  Fr.;  aetzkalil- 
auge,  G.;  liquor  kali  caustici,  P.  G. 

Derivation.— Boiling  a  solution  of  potassium  carbonate 
with  calcium  hydrate  leaves  potassium  hydrate  in  solution, 
while  calcium  carbonate  is  precipitated. 

K2  C03  +  Ca  (OH2)  =  2  KOH  +  Ca  C03. 

Properties. — A  clear,  colorless  liquid,  odorless,  having  a 
very  acrid  and  caustic  taste  and  a  strongly  alkaline  reaction. 
It  has  a  soapy  feel  and  taste. 

Dose.—U.  &  C,  I  ss.-i.  (15.-30.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ss.-i. 
(2.-4.);  D.,  IHv.-xx.  (.3-1.3). 

Potassa  Cum  Calce.     Potassa  with  Lime.     (U.  S.  P.) 
(Equal  parts  of  potassa  and  lime.) 

Synonym. — Vienna  paste. 

Properties. — A  grayish  white  powder,  deliquescent, 
having  a  strongly  alkaline  reaction;  should  be  soluble  in 
diluted  hydrochloric  acid  without  leaving  more  than  a  small 
residue. 

Actions  and  Ujses. — Potassa,  liquor  potassse  and  potassa 
cum   calce   are   mainly   of  value   as    escharotics.      Liquor 

*  When  solubility  is  mentioned  hereafter,  reference  will  be  had  to  solubility 
at  the  above  temperature. 


POTASSIUM   CARBONATE  119 

potasssB  is  unfit  for  internal  use  unless  greatly  diluted  with 
water.  It  resembles  potassium  carbonate  in  its  effects. 
Caustic  potash  is  very  destructive  of  tissue  by  combining 
with  water  and  fatty  matters.  It  is  most  diffusible  and, 
therefore,  difficult  to  limit  its  action.  This  we  may  do, 
however,  by  applying  a  plaster  to  a  part,  with  a  hole  in  it, 
through  which  the  caustic  stick  is  applied.  Before  using 
the  caustic,  the  outside  of  the  plaster  should  be  covered  with 
oil  or  grease,  but  not  the  part  under  the  aperture  in  it. 
After  removing  the  plaster  the  operation  of  the  caustic  may 
be  arrested  by  vinegar.  Cauterization  by  this  means  is  very 
painful  under  ordinary  circumstances,  but  may  be  made 
comparatively  painless  by  incorporating  one  part  of  mor- 
phine muriate  with  three  parts  of  potassa  cum  calce,  and 
adding  enough  chloroform  to  make  a  paste. 

Caustic  potash  is  indicated  where  extensive  destruction 
of  tissue  is  desirable,  as  in  the  treatment  of  the  bites  of  rabid 
dogs  and  of  snakes.  It  is  less  commonly  used  for  the 
removal  of  warts  and  small  growths,  and  as  a  caustic  on 
indolent  or  exuberant  granulations. 

Potash  has  been  employed  to  form  an  issue,  or  artificial 
ulcer  for  the  production  of  counter-irritation.  Potash  may 
be  prescribed  in  bronchitis,  for  its  action,  common  to  the 
alkalies,  in  thinning  and  increasing  the  bronchial  secretions. 
Potassium  bicarbonate  is  less  irritating  and  more  suitable 
for  the  latter  indication.  Potash  is  sometimes  recommended 
as  an  antacid  and  sedative  in  gastric  disorders,  but  is  inferior 
to  sodium  bicarbonate  for  this  purpose. 

PoTASsii  Carbonas.     Potassium  Carbonate.     K2C03 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Salts  of  tartar. 

Derivation. — The  solution  resulting  from  the  lixiviation 
of  wood  ashes,  is  boiled  to  dryness,  and  the  resultant  mass 
is  the  "  potash "  of  commerce.  This  is  purified  to  some 
extent  by  burning  in  ovens,  forming  "  pearlash,"  a  mixture 


120  INOKGANIC  AGENTS 

of  the  hydrate  and  carbonate.  Water  dissolves  mainly  the 
carbonate  which  is  obtained  by  evaporation  of  the  aqueous 
solution. 

Properties. — A  white,  granular  powder,  odorless,  and 
having  a  strongly  alkaline  taste  ;  very  deliquescent.  Soluble 
in  1.1  parts  of  water ;  insoluble  in  alcohol. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  I  ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.); 
D.,gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3). 

PoTASSii  BiCARBONAS.     Potassium  Bicarbonate.     KHCog 

(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Doppelkohlensaures  kali,  G. 

Derivation. — Obtained  by  passing  a  stream  of  Coj  through 
a  solution  of  the  carbonate. 

K,Co3  +  Co,  +  H,0  =  KHC03. 

Properties. — Colorless,  transparent,  monoclinic  prisms, 
odorless  and  having  a  saline  and  slightly  alkaline  taste. 
Permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble  in  3.2  parts  of  water.  Almost 
insoluble  in  alcohol.  Becomes  converted  into  the  carbonate 
by  boiling. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  5  ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.); 
D.,  gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3). 

Preferable  to  carbonate  for  internal  use,  as  it  is  less 
irritating. 

PoTASSii  AcETAS.     Potassium  Acetate.     KCgHgO, 
(U.  S.&B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Terra  foliata  tartari,  E.;  Essigsaures  kali,  G. 

Derivation. — Add    acetic  acid  in  excess  to  potassium 
carbonate.     Evaporate  to  dryness  and  fuse  residue. 
K,Co3  +  2  HC,H30,  =  2  KC.HsO,  +  H,0  +  Co,. 

Properties. — A  white  powder,  or  crystalline  masses  of  a 
satiny  lustre  ;  odorless  and  having  a  warming,  saline  taste. 
Very  deliquescent  on  exposure  to  the  air.  Soluble  in  0.36 
part  of  water  and  in  1.9  parts  of  alcohol. 

Dose. — Same  as  bicarbonate.  - 


POTASSIUM   CITRATE  121 

PoTASSii  CiTRAS.     Potassium  Citrate.     Kfijifi. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Synonym. — Citrate  de  potasse,  Fr.;  Citronsaures  kali,  G. 
Derivation. — Neutralize   potassium    carbonate    with    a 
solution  of  citric  acid,  and  evaporate  to  dryness. 

3K,Co3  +  2  H3CeH,0,  =  2K3CeH,0,  -f  3H,0  +  3  Co,. 
Properties. — Transparent,  prismatic  crystals,  or  a  white, 
granular   powder ;   odorless   and   having   a   cooling,   saline 
taste.     Deliquescent   on   exposure   to  air.     Soluble   in  0.6 
part  of  water  ;  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol. 
Dose. — Same  as  bicarbonate. 

ACTION   OF   THE   CARBONATES   AND   VEGETABLE   SALTS. 

The  carbonate  is  too  irritating  for  internal  use,  while 
the  bicarbonate  is  more  so  than  the  similar  sodium  salt. 
Therefore  the  latter  is  in  more  common  use  as  an  antacid. 
Antacids  neutralize  abnormal  acidity,  due  to  fermentation,  if 
given  some  time  after  eating  in  large  doses. 

The  vegetable  salts  (the  acetate  and  citrate)  are  con- 
verted into  the  carbonate  in  the  blood  and  are  non-irritating. 
The  bicarbonate  is  also  absorbed  into  the  blood  as  the  car- 
bonate. These  salts,  together  with  the  hydrate,  alkalize  the 
blood  and  urine.  It  is  thought  by  many  authorities  that 
they  increase  oxidation  within  the  body,  as  it  is  known  that 
they  do  so  outside  the  body  in  contact  with  organic  matter. 
Not  only  water,  but  also  the  solids  (urea  and  uric  acid)  in 
the  urine  are  increased  by  their  administration.  The 
chlorate  and  nitrate,  not  undergoing  decomposition  in  the 
body,  do  not  give  up  their  oxygen  or  alkalize  the  blood  or 
urine.  The  carbonates  are  mainly  useful  as  antacids  ;  the 
citrate  and  acetate  as  diuretics. 

Uses. — Potassium  bicarbonate  in  aqueous  solution  is 
serviceable  in  relieving  itching  (gr.v.-  §  i.)  It  is  more  useful 
than  sodium  bicarbonate  in  alkalizing  an  over-acid  urine 
(dogs),  and  in  dissolving  and  eliminating  uric  acid  from  the 
blood.  Potassium  citrate  and  acetate  are  indicated  in  irrita- 
tion or  inflammation  of  the  kidneys  and  bladder  and  cause 


122  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

absorption  of  exudations  (pleural  effusions,  for  example)^ 
throu<^li  their  diuretic  power.  They  are  also  good  uric  acid 
solvents.  They  are  sometimes  prescribed  in  fever  on  account 
of  slight  diarphoretic  and  powerful  diuretic  properties,  but 
are  rarely  used  in  veterinary  medicine,  in  comparison  with 
potassium  nitrate,  in  this  condition. 

The  salts  under  consideration  stimulate  bronchial  secre- 
tion and  make  it  thinner,  and  are  recommended  accordingly 
in  bronchitis.  They  are  less  efficient  than  potassium  iodide 
for  these  purposes  in  this  affection. 

PoTASSii  NiTRAS.    Potassium  Nitrate.    KNO,    (U.S.cfeB.F.) 

Synonym. — Nitre,  saltpetre,  E.;  nitre  prismatique,  azo- 
tate  (nitrate)  de  potasse,  Fr.;  saltpetersaures  kali,  kalisal- 
peter,  G. 

Derivation. — Saltpetre  is  formed  in  the  soil  in  certain 
regions  and  climates  and  is  made  artificially,  by  the  putre- 
faction of  animal  or  vegetable  material,  in  the  presence  of 
heat,  moisture,  oxygen,  and  alkaline  or  earthy  bases  capable 
of  fixing  the  nitric  acid  set  free  in  this  process,  known  as 
nitrification.  The  natural  conditions  for  nitrification  are 
present  in  some  parts  of  India,  and  saltpetre  is  largely 
imported  from  Calcutta.  Artificially,  nitre  beds  are  made 
of  animal  and  vegetable  matter,  wood  ashes,  and  calcareous 
earth  or  old  plaster  from  houses.  Sodium  nitrate  is  im- 
ported extensively  from  Chili,  where  it  occurs  as  a  mineral 
product,  and  is  used  widely  in  this  country  in  artificial 
fertilizers.  Chili  saltpetre  may  be  converted  into  nitre  by 
treatment  with  potash. 

Properties. — Colorless,  transparent,  six-sided,  rhombic 
prisms,  or  a  crystalline  powder,  odorless  and  having  a  cool- 
ing, saline  and  pungent  taste.  Permanent  in  the  air.  Sol- 
uble in  3.8  parts  of  water ;  very  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol. 

Dosc—n.  &  d,  5  ss.-i.  (15.-30.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.); 
D.,  gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3). 

Action  External. — Refrigerant. 


1 


POTASSIUM  NITRATE  123 

Action  Internal. — Stomach  and  Intestines. — Nitre  causes, 
in  lethal  doses,  violent  gastro-enteritis,  collapse  and  depres- 
sion of  the  circulation.  The  pulse  becomes  both  slow  and 
weak.  There  is  muscular  weakness  and  paralysis.  Potas- 
sium nitrate  is  one  of  the  most  irritating  salts  of  this  group, 
but  its  toxic  effect  depends  upon  its  state  of  concentration, 
and  horses  are  not  so  susceptible  to  the  local  irritating 
action  as  man. 

Blood. — Nitre  passes  into  and  out  of  the  blood  unchanged. 
It  has  been  said  that  the  salt  diminishes  fibrin  in  the  blood 
because  it  prevents  clotting  outside  the  body.  This  action 
probably  does  not  obtain  within  the  body. 

Heart. — Nitre  is  said  to  be  more  depressing  to  the  heart 
than  the  other  potassium  compounds.  There  is  no  basis  for 
this  belief.  Like  the  potassium  salts  generally,  it  exerts  a 
powerful,  depressing  action  upon  the  heart  in  large  doses. 

Kidneys. — Potassium  nitrate  is  eliminated  unchanged 
by  the  kidneys,  and  in  its  elimination  stimulates  the 
epithelium  of  the  renal  tubules,  increasing  their  secretion. 
The  solids  are,  therefore,  augmented  in  the  urine.  The 
local  blood  pressure  is  exalted  in  the  malpighian  bodies  and 
the  quantity  of  urine  is  thus  increased. 

Potassium  nitrate  is  more  frequently  prescribed  than 
any  other  potassium  salt  in  veterinary  practice,  and  is  com- 
monly considered  one  of  the  best  febrifuges.  In  human 
medicine  it  is  rarely  employed  for  internal  use,  and  is  held 
to  be  decidedly  inferior  to  other  diuretic  remedies. 

Skin. — Nitre  is  a  mild  diarphoretic. 

Summary. — Potassium  nitrate  is  a  diuretic,  cardiac 
sedative,  and  slight  diarphoretic. 

Administration. — Nitre  is  dissolved  in  a  pail  of  drinking 
water  and  kept  constantly  at  the  larger  animal's  disposal. 
The  salt  is  rendered  harmless  by  dilution  ;  vascular  tension 
and  diuresis  are  increased  by  the  water,  and  the  solution  is 
cooling  and  grateful  to  the  taste  in  fever.  Smaller  doses 
(  5  ss.)  may  be  given  on  the  food  to  horses.  -     .  ■  ■ 

Uses. — Nitre,   ammonium   chloride,   and  common   saJt^ 


124  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

each  one  part,  are  dissolved  in  three  parts  water,  and  some- 
times used  for  their  refrigerant  effect  on  local  inflammatory 
conditions.  Ice  poultices  are  more  efficient.  The  value  of 
nitre  is  over-estimated  in  veterinary  practice.  There  are 
better  heart  sedatives  (aconite),  diuretics  and  diarphoretics 
(sweet  spirit  of  nitre).  It  is  recommended  in  purpura  and 
rheumatism  as  alterative.  Here,  again,  it  is  less  serviceable 
than  ergot  in  the  former,  or  salicylic  acid  and  alkalies  in  the 
latter  disease.  Nitre  is,  however,  in  common  use  in  such 
febrile  affections  as  pneumonia  and  influenza  in  horses. 

PoTASsn  Chloras.     Potassium  Chlorate.     KCIO3. 

(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Kali  oxymuriaticum,  E.;  chlorate  de  potasse, 
Fr.;  chlorsaures  kali,  G. 

Derivation. — Pass  chlorine  into  a  mixture  of  potassium 
carbonate  and  calcium  hydrate ;  dissolve  the  result  in  boil- 
ing water  and  recover  the  chlorate  by  crystallization. 

K,Co3  +  6  Ca  (OH),  +  12  CI  =  2  KCl  O3  +  Ca  Co,  + 
5  Ca  CI3  +  6  H,0. 

Properties. — Colorless,  lustrous,  monoclinic  prisms  or 
plates,  or  a  white  powder,  odorless,  and  having  a  cooling, 
saline  taste.  Permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble  in  16.7  parts 
of  water.  Insoluble  in  absolute  alcohol,  but  slightly  solu- 
ble in  mixtures  of  alcohol  and  water.  Explodes  readily 
when  rubbed  with  sugar,  sulphur,  charcoal,  glycerin  and 
many  other  substances. 

Dose.—n.  &  a,  I  ss.-i.  (15.-30.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4); 
D.,  gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3). 

Action  Internal. — Potassium  chlorate  closely  resembles 
the  nitrate  in  its  action.     Locally  it  is  an  irritant. 

Stomach  and  Bowels. — Medicinal  doses  have  no  apparent 
effect.  Lethal  doses  occasion  gastro-enteritis,  diarrhoea, 
cyanosis  and  depression  of  the  heart. 

The  Blood. — The  blood  is  unaffected  by  medicinal  doses, 
but  in  poisoning  the  red  corpuscles  are  broken  down  and 
crenated.     The  haemoglobin  is  converted  into  methaemoglo- 


POTASSIUM  BITARTRATE  125 

bin,  which  is  probably  a  mixture  of  hsematin  and  soluble 
albumin.  Haemoglobin  and  disintegrated  corpuscles  appear 
in  the  urine  as  hsemoglobinuria.  The  blood  is  chocolate- 
colored  after  death.  The  liver,  spleen,  kidneys  and  intes- 
tines are  softened  and  filled  with  disorganized  blood.  It 
was  formerly  thought  that  potassium  chlorate  parted  with 
its  oxygen  in  the  blood,  and  it  was  (and  is)  prescribed  in 
many  disorders  as  an  oxidizing  agent.  It  has  been  stated 
that  venous  blood  acquires  an  arterial  hue  under  the  influ- 
ence of  the  salt.  But  potassium  chlorate  does  not  part  with 
its  oxygen  ;  neither  does  it  oxidize  the  blood,  nor  impart  to 
the  venous  blood  an  arterial  color. 

Heart. — The  action  is  much  the  same  as  nitre. 

Kidneys. — Action  similar  to  nitre  in  therapeutic  doses. 

Elimination. — Potassium  chlorate  is  elimin'ated  by  all 
channels  ;  mainly  by  the  urine,  but  also  by  the  sweat,  saliva, 
etc.  Acting  locally  as  a  stimulant  in  the  mouth,  and  then 
afifecting  the  throat  a  second  time  by  its  elimination  in  the 
saliva,  potassium  chlorate  is  frequently  prescribed  in  diseases 
of  the  mouth  and  pharynx  as  a  topical  stimulant.  It  is 
given  in  electuary,  solution,  or  ball  internally. 

Summary. — Sialogogue,  diuretic  and  heart  depressant. 

Uses. — Stomatitis  is  treated  by  chlorate  of  potassium  in 
saturated  solution  applied  on  a  swab.  The  salt  is  valuable 
in  the  treatment  of  pharyngitis  in  electuary.  A  favorite 
combination  consists  of  fluid  extract  of  belladonna,  ^i-j 
potassium  chlorate,  '^\\.\  powdered  licorice  root,  §  v.,  with 
sufficient  molasses  to  make  an  electuary.  One  ounce  is  to  be 
smeared  on  the  teeth  of  a  horse  thrice  daily.  An  half  ounce 
of  a  saturated  solution  of  potassium  chlorate,  with  a  few 
drops  of  laudanum,  forms  a  useful  injection  for  haemorrhoids 
in  dogs.  Otherwise  the  salt  may  be  prescribed  for  the  same 
purposes  as  nitre. 

PoTASSii  BiTARTRAS.     Potassium  Bitartrate.     KH^C^HOg. 

(U.S.  P.) 
Synonym. — Potassii  tartras  acida,  B.  P.;  cream  of  tartar, 


126  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

cremor  tartari,  acid  tartrate  of  potash,  E.;  tartarus  depura- 
tus,  P.  G.;  pierre  de  vin,  Fr.;  Weinstein,  G. 

Derivation. — Obtained  from  crude  tartar  (argol)  deposited 
on  the  sides  of  wine  casks  during  fermentation  of  grape 
juice,  by  purification. 

Properties. — Colorless  or  slightly  opaque,  rhombic  crys- 
tals, or  a  white,  somewhat  gritty  powder;  odorless  and  having 
a  pleasant,  acidulous  taste.  Permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble 
in  about  201  parts  of  water ;  very  sparingly  soluble  in  alco- 
hol.    Reaction  acid. 

Dose.—n.  k  C,  5  8s.-i.  (15.-30.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  5  ss.  (15.) ; 
D.,  3ss.-i.  (2.-4). 

Action  internal. — Intestines. — Potassium  bitartrate  is  a 
non-irritating  purgative  in  large  doses.  It  is  a  hydragogue 
cathartic  and  has  a  strong  affinity  for  water ;  abstracting  it 
from  the  blood  vessels  in  the  bowels,  holding  the  same  in 
solution,  and  thus  flushing  out  the  intestines. 

Blood. — Potassium  bitartrate  is  in  part  decomposed, 
converted  into  the  carbonate,  and  absorbed  as  such  into  the 
blood.  The  greater  part  is  excreted  by  the  bowels 
unchanged.  A  portion  of  the  latter  may  have  been  absorbed 
and  eliminated  by  the  intestines. 

Kidneys. — Potassium  bitartrate  is  an  active  diuretic  and 
renders  the  urine  more  alkaline,  but  for  some  reason  it  is 
not  ordinarily  employed  in  veterinary  practice. 

Summary.  —  Diuretic  in  small  doses.  Hydragogue 
cathartic  in  large  doses.  It  should  be  given  in  solution  and 
is  useful  in  dropsies,  more  particularly  of  renal  origin  ;  also 
in  catarrhal  jaundice,  and  as  a  laxative  for  foals  and  calves. 

Sodium. 

(The  Metal  is  not  Employed  in  Medicine.) 

Soda.    Soda.    NaOH.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Soda  caustica,  B.  P.;  sodium  hydrate,  caus- 
tic soda,  sodium  hydroxide,  natrum  causticum,  S.  hydricum, 
E.;  Sonde  caustique,  Fr.;  natron  setznatron,  G. 


SOLUTION  OF  SODA  127 

Derivation. — It  is  made  from  liquor  sodae  by  evapora- 
tion, and  run  in  moulds. 

Properties. — Dry,  white,  translucent  pencils,  or  fused 
masses,  showing  a  crystalline  fracture ;  odorless,  and  having 
an  acrid  and  caustic  taste.  Exposed  to  the  air  it  rapidly 
deliquesces,  absorbs  carbon  dioxide,  and  becomes  covered 
with  a  dry  coating  of  carbonate.  Soluble  in  1.7  parts  of 
water ;  very  soluble  in  alcohol. 

Liquor  Sod^.     Solution  of  Soda.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

An  aqueous  solution  of  sodium  hydrate,  containing 
about  5  per  cent,  of  hydrate. 

Synonym. — Solution  of  sodium  hydrate,  E.;  natrum 
hydricum  solutum,  sonde  caustique  liquide,  Fr.;  liquor  natri 
caustici,  P.  G.;  aetznatron  lauge,  G. 

Derivation. — An  aqueous  solution  of  sodium  carbonate 
is  boiled  with  calcium  hydrate,  and  the  supernatant  liquid 
is  siphoned  off. 

Na,C03  +  Ca(OH),  =  2  NaOH  +  CaCOa. 

Properties. — A  clear,  colorless  liquid,  odorless,  having  a 
very  acrid  and  caustic  taste,  and  a  strongly  alkaline  reaction. 

Dose.—U.&C,  5  ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4); 
D.,  IT^v.-xx.  (.3-1.8). 

Action  and  Uses. — Soda  and  liquor  sodae  resemble  similar 
compounds  of  potassium,  but  are  used  chiefly  for  chemical 
and  pharmaceutical  purposes. 

Liquor  sodae  should  be  given  largely  diluted  with  water. 
In  poisoning  by  the  caustic  alkalies  or  soap  lye,  use  emetics 
or  stomach  pump ;  and  give  vinegar,  diluted  acetic  acid, 
lemon  juice  and  demulcents. 

SoDii  Carbonas.     Sodium  Carbonate.     Nag  Co,  10  H2O. 

(U.  S.  &  B,  P.) 

Synonym. — Washing  soda,  sal  soda,  carbonas  sodicus, 
E.;  natrum  carbonicum  crudum,  P.  G.;  carbonate  de  soude, 
Fr.;  kohlensaures  natron,  soda,  G. 


128  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Derivation. — Made  by  Leblanc's  process.     Three  steps  : 

1st.  Salt  and  sulphuric  acid  heated  together.  2  Na  CI  + 
H3  SO,  =  Na,  SO,  +  2  HCl. 

2nd.  Sodium  sulphate  is  heated  with  carbon.  Na,  So,  + 
4  C  =  Na,  S  +  4  CO. 

3rd.  Sodium  sulphide  heated  with  chalk.  Na,  S  +  Ca 
C03  =  Na,  C03  +  Ca  S. 

Properties. — Colorless,  monoclinic  crystals,  odorless  and 
having  a  strongly  alkaline  taste.  In  dry  air  the  salt  efflor- 
esces, loses  about  half  its  water  of  crystallization  and 
becomes  a  white  powder.  Soluble  in  1.6  parts  of  water  and 
in  1.02  parts  of  glycerin.     Reaction  alkaline. 

SoDH  Carbonas  Exsiccatus.     Dried  Sodium  Carbonate. 
Na,C03.        (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Natrum  carbonicum  siccum,  P.  G.;  carbo- 
nate de  soude,  Fr.;  getrocknete  soda,  G. 

Derivation. — Sodium  carbonate  (200  gm.)  is  broken  into 
'small  fragments  and  allowed  to  effloresce  in  dry  air.  It  is 
then  heated  to  drive  off  water  of  crystallization,  till  it  weighs- 
100  Gm. 

Properties. — A  loose,  white  powder,  corresponding  in 
solubility  to  sodium  carbonate.  Reaction  alkaline.  Action 
of  sodium  carbonate  similar  to  the  hydrate,  but  infrequently 
employed  in  medicine. 

Dose.—B..  &  C,  3ii.-vi.  (8.-24.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.xx.-xl. 
(1.3-2.6);  D.,  gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3).  Given  in  large  amount  of 
water. 

SoDH  BiCARBONAS.     Sodium  Bicarbonate.     Na  HCO3. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym,. — Soda,  baking  soda,  sodium  sesquicarbonate, 
natrum  carbonicum  acidulum,  bicarbonas  sodicus,  sodium 
hydrocarbonate,  bicarbonate  of  soda,  E.;  natrum  bi  carboni- 
cum, P.  G.;  bicarbonate  de  soude,  sel  digestive  de  vichy,  Fr.; 
doppelkohlensaures  natron,  G. 


SQDIUM   BICARBONATE  129 

Derivation. — Pass  COo  through  a  solution  of  sodium 
carbouate.     Na,  CO3  +  CO,  +  H,0  =  2  Na  HCO3. 

Properties. — A  white,  opaque  powder,  odorless,  and 
having  a  cooling,  mildly  alkaline  taste.  Permanent  in  dry, 
but  slowly  decomposed  in  moist  air.  Soluble  in  11.3  parts 
of  water,  insoluble  in  alcohol  and  ether.  Slight  alkaline 
reaction. 

Incompatihles. — Decomposed  by  acid  and  acid  salts,  as 
bismuth  subnitrate. 

Z>o.se.— H.,5ss.-ii.  (15.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,3ss.-i.  (2.-4.);  D., 
gr.v.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

GENERAL  ACTION   OF   SODIUM   SALTS. 

Sodium  and  its  salts  are  not  nearly  so  poisinous  as 
similar  potassium  compounds,  but  death  has  occurred  after 
enormous  doses.  The  salts  possess  a  local  paralyzing  action 
on  nerve  and  muscular  tissue.  They  are  absorbed  and 
eliminated  more  slowly  than  the  corresponding  potassium 
compounds.  Sodium  salts  alkalize  the  blood  and  urine,  but 
are  only  slightly  diuretic.  Sodium  carbonate,  phosphate, 
and  sulphate  diminish  the  solids  in  the  bile  and,  therefore, 
increase  its  fluidity. 

Sodium  Bicarbonate. 

Action  Externcd. — Sodium  bicarbonate  lessens  irritability 
of  the  skin  in  itching  and  burns. 

Action  Internal. — When  sodium  bicarbonate  is  given 
after  eating  it  neutralizes  the  acid  products  of  indigestion 
and  fermentation.  The  constant  administration  of  sodium 
bicarbonate  weakens  the  digestive  powers  and  creates 
anaemia,  general  cachexia,  and  scorbutic  symptoms.  Sodium 
bicarbonate  liberates  carbonic  dioxide  in  the  stomach,  and 
thus  exerts  a  sedative  effect.  It  dissolves  mucus  and  thins 
the  biliary  secretion.  It  is,  therefore,  useful  in  catarrh  of 
the  gastro-intestinal  tract. 

Blood. — The  blood  is  made  more  alkaline. 

Kidneys.— The  urine  is  alkalized,  but  the  salt  is  only 
feebly  diuretic. 


iS6  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Uses  External. — In  aqueous  solution  (1-50)  sodium 
bicarbonate  relieves  itching  in  urticaria,  prurigo  and  chronic 
eczema.  It  also  allays  the  pain  of  slight  burns  and  of  acute 
rheumatism.  For  this  purpose  cloths  should  be  soaked  in 
saturated  solutions  and  placed  upon  the  affected  parts. 
Added  to  water  ( 3  i.-Oi.)  in  which  instruments  are  to  be 
boiled,  it  prevents  rusting. 

Uses  Internal, — Sodium  is  one  of  the  most  useful  reme- 
dies in  gastric  or  intestinal  indigestion  associated  with 
acidity,  flatulence,  and  distress.  It  does  not  always  remove 
the  cause  of  indigestion,  however,  and,  therefore,  should  be 
combined  with  agents  which  do :  e.^.,  cathartics,  antiseptics, 
carminatives  and  stomachics.  For  this  reason  sodium 
bicarbonate  is  often  prescribed  to  dogs  with  bismuth  sub- 
carbonate,  salol  or  beta  naphtol ;  to  horses,  with  gentian  or 
nux  vomica  and  ginger. 

Sodium  bicarbonate  is  of  value  in  alkalizing  the  blood 
in  acute  rheumatism,  when  it  is  thought  to  increase  oxida- 
tion and  tissue  waste.  The  salt  assists  the  action  of  calomel, 
with  which  it  should  be  generally  conjoined,  since  it  stimu- 
lates the  flow  of  bile  and  aids  the  alkaline  intestinal  juices 
in  transforming  the  inactive  chloride  into  the  active  oxide. 
Sodium  bicarbonate  is  occasionally  given  in  acute  bronchitis, 
but  it  is  distinctly  inferior  to  the  corresponding  potassium 
salt  in  thinning  and  increasing  bronchial  secretions. 

This  salt  is  highly  recommended  in  the  treatment  of 
hsemoglobinsemia  (azoturia)  in  horses,  when  given  in  quanti- 
ties of  10-30  ounces  daily.  Theoretically,  sodium  bicarbo- 
nate is  of  benefit  in  this  disease,  by  neutralizing  acid 
products  of  metabolism  which  lead  to  solution  of  the  haemo- 
globin. 

Administration. — Sodium  bicarbonate  may  be  given  in 
solution  or  on  the  tongue  or  food  in  the  pure  state. 

SoDH  Sulphas.    Sodium  Sulphate.    Nag  SO^  lOHjO. 

(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Synonym. — Glauber's   salts,   sulfas    sodicus   (natricus). 


SODIUM   CHLORIDE  131 

sal  mirabile  Glauberi,  sulphate  of  soda,  E.;  sulfat  de  soude, 
sel  de  Glauber,  Fr.;  Glaubersalz,  G. 

Derivation. — Neutralize  the  residue  left  in  the  manufac- 
ture of  HCl  from  salt,  with  sodium  carbonate.  2  Na  HSO^  + 
N%  CO3  =  2  Na^  So,  +  Go,  +  H^O. 

Properties. — Large,  colorless,  transparent,  monoclinic 
prisms,  or  granular  crystals,  odorless,  and  having  a  bitter, 
saline  taste.  The  salt  effloresces  rapidly  in  the  air,  and 
finally  loses  all  its  water  of  crystallization.  Soluble  in  2.8 
parts  of  water  ;  insoluble  in  alcohol ;  soluble  in  glycerin. 

Dose.—Q.,  ft)i.-iss.  (500.-750.);  H.  (laxative),  ?ii.-iv. 
(60.-120.);  Sh.,  ^ii-iv.  (60.-120.). 

Action  Internal. — Digestive  Tract. — Sodium  and  magne- 
sium sulphate  rapidly  abstract  water  from  the  blood  vessels 
of  the  alimentary  canal  through  the  intestinal  glands  (succus 
entericus)  until  a  5-per-cent.  solution  is  reached.  This 
solution  is  but  slowly  reabsorbed  so  that  it  sweeps  out  the 
contents  of  the  bowels.  They  are  hydragogue  cathartics. 
These  salts  also  stimulate  peristaltic  action  to  some  extent 
by  their  physical  properties,  or  through  their  action  in  aug- 
menting the  mass  of  intestinal  contents.  Glauber's  salt  is 
said  to  be  slower  in  action  than  Epsom  salts. 

Liver. — Glauber's  salt  increases  the  secretion  of  bile 
and  prevents  its  absorption  in  the  bowels  by  expelling  it 
from  the  tract. 

Kidneys. — Small  doses  of  sodium  sulphate  are  absorbed 
and  alkalize  the  blood  and  urine.     It  is  a  slight  diuretic. 

Administration. — Glauber's  salt  is.  given  to  cattle  in 
solution  with  ginger  and  molasses. 

Uses. — Magnesium  sulphate  is  generally  preferred  to 
sodium  sulphate,  as  the  former  is  less  disagreeable  and  more 
rapid  in  its  action. 

The  reader  is  referred  to  uses  of  magnesium  sulphate 
(p.  153.) 

SoDii  Chloridum.     Sodium  Chloride.    NaCl.    (U.S.&B.P.) 
Synonym. — Common  or  table  salt,  muriate  of  soda,  sal 


132  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

commune  or  culinare,  cliloruretum  sodicum,  E.;  natrium 
chloratum  purum,  P.  G.;  cblorure  de  sodium,  sel  commun, 
sel  de  cuisine,  Fr.;   chlornatrium,  kochsalz,  G. 

Derivation. — Mined  in  native  state  and  obtained  by- 
evaporation  of  brine,  spring  or  sea  water. 

Properties. — Colorless,  transparent,  cubical  crystals,  or 
a  white,  crystalline  powder,  odorless,  and  having  a  purely- 
saline  taste.  Permanent  in  dry  air.  Soluble  in  2.8  parts  of 
water ;  almost  insoluble  in  alcohol ;  insoluble  in  ether  or 
chloroform.     Reaction  neutral. 

i)ose.— Cathartic,  C,  ibss.-i.  (250.-500.);  Sh.,  5i.-ii. 
(30.-60.). 

Action  External. — Salt  is  a  stimulant  to  the  skin  when 
applied  in  concentrated  solution. 

Action  Internal. — Salt  is  an  essential  constituent  of  food, 
and  necessary  to  the  composition  of  blood  serum,  from  which 
it  is  constantly  eliminated  in  the  urine.  Animals  deprived 
of  salt  suffer  from  anaemia,  general  weakness  and  oedema. 

Stomach  and  Intestines. — Salt  has  caused  gastro-enteritis 
and  death  in  enormous  doses.  Large  doses  occasion  emesis 
in  dogs.  Salt  combines  with  lactic  acid  in  the  stomach  to 
form  sodium  lactate,  and  in  the  process  sets  free  hydro- 
chloric acid.  Hydrochloric  acid,  in  its  turn,  promotes  the 
formation  of  pepsin  from  pepsinogen  of  the  gastric  tubules. 
Salt,  therefore,  improves  gastric  digestion.  Salt  acts  in  the 
bowels  as  a  mild  hydragogue  purgative.  It  is  unfit  as  a 
cathartic  for  horses  or  dogs,  but  is  useful  for  cattle  and 
sheep  when  combined  with  magnesium  or  sodium  sulphate. 
Salt  creates  thirst  and,  therefore,  promotes  the  ingestion  of 
water.  A  large  supply  of  water  flushes  the  system*  and 
removes  deleterious  and  imperfectly  oxidized  matters. 

Blood. — The  red  corpuscles  are  augmented  by  salt. 

Metabolism. — Salt  increases  tissue  change  and  tends  to 
elevate  temperature.  The  appetite  is  also  sharpened  owing 
to  the  ingestion  of  water  and  metabolic  activity. 

Summary. — Emetic,  cathartic,  digestive,  alterative. 
.  Uses  External. — A  solution  consisting  of  one  ounce  each 


I 


SODIUM   CHLORIDE  133 

of  salt,  nitre  and  sal  ammoniac,  in  one  quart  of  water,  may- 
be used  on  bruises  and  sprains  as  a  stimulant  and  refrig- 
erant lotion.  Severe  ligemorrhage,  collapse  and  surgical 
shock  are  treated  most  successfully  by  injections  of  hot 
normal  salt  solution  into  a  vein,  under  the  skin,  or  into  the 
rectum.  The  solution  maintains  the  proper  salinity  of  the 
blood,  replaces  the  mass  of  blood  lost,  and  supplies  heat. 
The  solution  is  made  by  adding  one  heaping  teaspoonful  of 
salt  to  a  quart  of  boiled  water  at  a  temperature  of  100^  to 
105°  F.  From  2  to  4  quarts  may  be  given  to  horses,  and 
from  4  to  1  pint  to  dogs.  (See  p.  701.)  Salt  is  an  efficient 
antidote  externally  and  internally  to  silver  nitrate. 

Uses  Internal. — Salt  is  a  serviceable  emetic  for  dogs, 
when  zinc  sulphate  is  not  at  hand,  in  emergencies  and  pois- 
oning. One  teaspoonful  may  be  stirred  into  a  cup  of  luke- 
warm water  with  a  tablespoonful  of  mustard.  It  is  a  useful 
addition  to  Epsom  salts,  since  it  increases  thirst  and  the 
ingestion  of  water,  and  assists  purgation  in  overloaded 
conditions  of  the  first  and  third  stomachs  of  ruminants. 
One-half  pound  of  salt  is  administered  to  cattle  with  one- 
half  to  one  pound  of  Epsom  salts,  one-quarter  pound  of 
ginger  and  a  pint  of  molasses  in  two  quarts  of  water.  The 
habitual  ingestion  of  salt  is  prejudicial  to  ascarides  and 
diminishes  the  secretion  of  mucus  in  which  they  live.  It 
is  even  more  efficacious  in  destroying  oxyiirides  inhabiting 
the  lower  bowels.  Enemata  containing  1  to  2  tablespoonfuls 
of  salt  to  the  pint  of  water  are  employed  for  this  purpose. 
Salt  should  be  constantly  kept  in  the  feed  boxes  of  horses 
and  cattle. 

Animals  convalescing  from  acute  diseases,  and  those 
with  feeble  digestion,  need  salt  particularly.  Horses  are 
commonly  given  a  bran  mash  once  a  week,  with  plenty  of 
salt  to  enhance  its  laxative  and  hygienic  action.  Dogs 
usually  procure  sufficient  salt  in  their  ordinary  food,  but  it 
should  be  added  to  their  diet  in  the  treatment  of  obesity. 
Repeated  doses  of  salt  aid  the  absorption  of  serous  pleural 
effusions. 


134  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

SoDii  Phospkas.     Sodium  Phosphate.     Na^HPO,  +  ISiH^O. 

(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Phosphas  sodicus  (natricus),  sal  mirabile 
perlatum,  phosphate  of  soda,  E.;  natrum  phosphoricum, 
P.  G.;  phosphate  de  soude,  Fr.;  phosphorsaures  natrum,  G. 

Derivation, — Digest  bone  ash  with  sulphuric  acid. 
Ca,  2P0,  +  2  H,  SO,  =  Ca  H,  2  PO,  (acid  calcium  phos- 
phate) +  2  Oa  SO4.  Filter  and  add  sodium  carbonate  to 
filtrate. 

Ca  H,  2  Po,  +  Na,  Co,  =  Na,  H  PO,  4-  H,0  +  Co,  + 
Ca  HPO4.  Evaporate,  and  sodium  phosphate  crystallizes 
out. 

Properties. — Large,  colorless,  monoclinic  prisms,  odor- 
less, and  having  a  cooling,  saline  taste.  The  crystals 
effloresce  in  the  dry  air  and  gradually  lose  5  molecules  of 
their  water  of  crystallization.  Soluble  in  5.8  parts  of  water ; 
insoluble  in  alcohol ;  slightly  alkaline  reaction. 

Dose. — Same  as  sodium  sulphate ;  D.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.),  as 
laxative  and  chologogue  cathartic. 

The  phosphate  resembles  the  sulphate,  but  is  a  milder 
purgative  and  more  efficient  hepatic  stimulant.  It  is  indi- 
cated in  jaundice,  and  as  a  laxative  for  foals  and  calves.  It 
is  occasionally  prescribed  in  rickets  as  a  source  of  phos- 
phorus, but  the  calcium  phosphate  is  more  appropriate. 

Soon  SuLPHis.      Sodium  Sulphite.     Na,  S03  7  H^O. 

(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Natrum  sulfuriosum,  sulfis  sodicus  (natricus), 
sulphite  of  soda,  E.;  sulfite  de  soude,  Fr.;  schwefiigsaures 
natron,  G. 

Derivation.  — Saturate  a  solution  of  sodium  carbonate  or 
hydrate  with  sulphurous  anhydride  gas.  Naj  CO,  -|-  Soj  = 
Na,  S03  4-  Co,. 

Properties. — Colorless,  transparent,  monoclinic  prisms, 
odorless,  and  having  a  cooling,  saline,  sulphurous  taste.  In 
air  the  salt  effloresces,  and  is  slowly  oxidized  to  sulphate. 


SODIUM  BISULPHITE  135 

Soluble  in  4  parts  of  water  ;  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol ; 
Neutral  or  feebly  alkaline. 

Dose.—K.  &  C,  5i.  (30.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4);  D., 
gr.v.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

SoDii  Bisulphite.    Sodium  Bisulphite.    NaHSOs.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Dei'ivation. — Obtained  from  sodium  carbonate  or  bicar- 
bonate and  sulphurous  anhydride  gas. 

Properties. — Opaque,  prismatic  crystals,  or  a  granular 
powder,  exhaling  an  odor  of  sulphur  dioxide  and  having  a 
disagreeable,  sulphurous  taste.  Exposed  to  the  air  the  salt 
loses  sulphur  dioxide  and  is  gradually  oxidized  to  sulphate. 
Soluble  ia  4  parts  of  water  and  in  72  parts  of  alcohol ;  reac- 
tion acid. 

Dose. — Same  as  sodium  sulphite. 

SoDii  Hyposulphis.     Sodium  Hyposulphite.    Na,  S^Og  5  H^O. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Sodium  thiosulphate,  hyposulphate  of  soda, 
E.;  natrum  subsulf urosum  (hyposulfurosum),  P.  G.;  hyposul- 
phis sodicus,  hyposulfite  de  sonde,  sulfite  solfure  de  sonde, 
Fr.;  unterschwefligsaures  natron,  G. 

Derivation. — Dissolve  sulphur  in  a  boiling  aqueous 
solution  of  sodium  sulphite. 

Properties. — Colorless,  transparent,  monoclinic  prisms, 
odorless,  and  having  a  cooling,  afterwards  bitter,  taste. 
Permanent  in  air  below  33^  C.  (91.4°  F.),  but  efflorescent  in 
dry  air  above  that  temperature.  Soluble  in  0.65  part  of 
water ;  insoluble  in  alcohol ;  slightly  soluble  in  oil  of  tur- 
pentine ;  reaction  neutral. 

Dose. — Same  as  sodium  sulphite. 

Administration. — The  sulphites  are  given  in  solution,  or 
may  be  added  in  powder  to  the  food  of  horses. 

ACTION   OF  the   SULPHITES. 

Action  External. — The  sulphites  are  antiseptics,  deodor- 
izers and  parasiticides  externally. 


136  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Action  Internal. — The  sulphites  are  decomposed  by  the 
acids  in  the  stomach,  and  sulphur  dioxide  (SO2)  is  evolved. 
The  bisulphite  and  hyposulphite  are  richer  in  sulphur  and, 
therefore,  are  more  powerful.  Sulphur  dioxide  gas  is  an 
antiseptic. 

Blood. — If  any  part  of  the  sulphites  escapes  decomposi- 
tion in  the  digestive  tract,  it  is  absorbed  unchanged. 

Summary. — Antiseptics,  deodorizers  and  parasiticides 
externally.     Antiseptics  in  the  alimentary  tract. 

Uses. — An  8-per-cent.  solution  of  the  sulphites  is  used 
in  parasitic  skin  diseases.  The  salts  are  indicated  in  indi- 
gestion with  fermentation,  flatulence  and  foul-smelling  faeces. 
They  have  been  greatly  lauded  as  remedies  in  general  septic 
conditions,  but  have  proved  as  useless  as  most  oth^r  drugs 
in  such  cases. 

The  other  sodium  salts  are  of  no  particular  value  in 
veterinary  practice  except  sodium  bromide.  (See  bromine, 
p.  226.) 

Ammonium. 

The  metal  is  not  employed  in  medicine.  Ammonia 
(NH3)  exists  in  the  free  state  as  a  gas,  and  is  used  in  medi- 
cine in  solution  in  water  or  alcohoL 

Aqua  Ammonia.     Ammonia  Water.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Liquor  ammoniae,  B.  P.;  spirits  of  hartshorn, 
E.;  liquor  ammonii  caustici,  P.  G.;  spiritus  salis  ammoniaci 
causticus,  ammonia  aqua  soluta,  ammoniaque  liquide,  eau 
(solution,  liqueur)  d'ammoniaque,  Fr.;  salmiakgeist,  aetzam- 
moniak,  ammoniakfliissigkeit,  G.  An  aqueous  solution  of 
ammonia  (NH3),  containing  10  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  the  gas. 

Properties. — A  colorless,  transparent  liquid,  having  a 
very  pungent  odor,  an  acrid,  alkaline  taste,  and  a  strongly 
alkaline  reaction.     Spec,  gr.0.960. 

Derivation. — Evolve  ammonia  gas  by  heating  ammonium 
chloride  with  calcium  hydrate,  and  pass  it  into  water. 

2  NH,  CI  +  Ca(OH),  =  2  NH,  -h  2  H,0  +  Ga  Gl^ 


STRONGER  AMMONIA  WATER  137 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  I  ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.); 
D.,  111X.-XX.  (.6-1.3). 

PREPARATION. 

Linimentum  Ammonice.     Ammonia  Liniment.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Ammonia  water,  350;  cottonseed  oil,  600;  alcohol,  50.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Aqua  Ammonia  FoRTis.   Stronger  Ammonia  Water.    (U.S.P.) 

Synonym. — Liquor  ammonige  fortior,  stronger  solution 
of  ammonia,  B.  P.;  eau  d'ammoniaque  forte,  Fr.;  starker  sal- 
miakgeist,  G. 

An  aqueous  solution  of  ammonia  (NHg),  containing  28 
per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  the  gas. 

Derivation. — Same  as  aqua  ammonise. 

Properties. — A  colorless,  transparent  liquid,  having  an 
excessively  pungent  odor,  a  very  acrid  and  alkaline  taste, 
and  a  strongly  alkaline  reaction.     Spec,  gr.0.901. 

Dose.—li.  &  C,  3  ii.-vi.  (8.-24.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  i-  (4.) ;  D., 
Hlv.-x.  (.3-.6). 

preparation. 
Spiritus  Ammonice.    Spirit  of  Ammonia.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Spiritus  ammoniaci  caustici  dyondii,  ammoniated  alco- 
hol, E.;  liquor  ammonisB  caustici  spirituosus,  P.  G.;  alcoole  d'ammo- 
niaque, liqueur  d'ammoniaque  vineuse,  Fr. ;  weingeistige  ammoniak- 
flussigkeit,  G. 

An  alcoholic  solution  of  ammonia  (NHs),  containing  10  per  cent., 
by  weight,  of  the  gas. 

Properties. — A  colorless  liquid,  having  a  strong  odor  of  ammonia, 
and  a  spec.  gr.  of  about  0.810. 

This  preparati6n  combines  the  stimulating  properties  of  ammonia 
and  alcohol. 

Dose.—B..  &  C,  5  ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  i.-ii,  (4.-8.);  D.,  ttlx.- 
XX.  (.6-1.3). 

AMMONIA  PREPARATIONS. 

Action  External. — Ammonia  is  a  powerful  irritant  in 
stronger  solution,  or  gas.  If  it  is  applied  for  a  sufficient 
time,  hypersemia,  vesication  and  sloughing  ensue. 

Action  Internal. — Stomach. — If  swallowed  in  concentrated 
solution  death  may  take  place  instantaneously  from  oedema 


138  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

and  spasm  of  the  glottis.  Otherwise,  more  or  less  extensive 
inflammation  of  the  alimentary  canal  will  follow,  according 
to  the  amount  ingested.  Diluted  vinegar  and  lemon  juice, 
together  with  the  white  of  egg,  or  sweet  oil,  should  be 
given  as  antidotes.  Tracheotomy  may  be  indicated,  if  there 
is  glottic  obstruction.  Ammonia,  in  passing  through  the 
mouth,  throat,  gullet  and  stomach,  reflexly  stimulates  the 
heart  and  respiration  before  absorption  can  occur. 

Ammonia  is  an  antacid  in  the  stomach,  but  should  not 
be  employed  in  gastric  irritability. 

Eespiratory  Tract. — Inhalation  of  stronger  ammonia 
through  the  nostrils  causes  reflex  stimulation  of  the  heart 
and  respiration  by  irritation  of  the  nasal  branches  of  the 
fifth  nerve.  Care  must  be  exercised  to  prevent  inflammation 
of  the  air  passages.  Ammonia  stimulates  the  respiratory 
centre  when  it  is  absorbed  through  any  channel. 

Circulation. — Ammonia  is  a  rapid  but  transient  heart 
stimulant,  making  the  ventricular  contractions  stronger  and 
more  frequent,  by  stimulation  of  the  accelerator  nerves  and 
heart  muscle.  Ammonia  also  stimulates  the  vasomotor 
centre,  probably,  and,  because  of  this  fact,  and  the  large 
amount  of  blood  pumped  into  the  vessels,  vascular  tension 
is  heightened.  Lethal  doses  paralyze  the  cardiac  muscle. 
Ammonia  differs  from  alcohol  in  being  more  evanescent  as  a 
stimulant,  in  not  atfecting  the  brain  nor  metabolism,  and  in 
not  acting  as  a  food. 

Blood. — The  normal  blood  contains  ammonia,  which  is 
supposed  to  aid  in  maintaining  its  fluidity.  When  a  pois- 
onous quantity  enters  the  circulation,  ammonia  has  a 
damaging  effect  on  the  red  corpuscles ;  not  only  depriving 
them  of  their  oxygen,  but  incapacitating  them  from  absorbing 
more.  Ammonia  is  thought  to  prevent  coagulation  of  blood 
within  the  vessels  in  conditions  favorable  to  thrombosis. 

Nervous  System. — An  intravenous  injection  of  a  lethal 
dose  of  ammonia  occasions  tetanic  convulsions  in  animals, 
owing  to  stimulation  of  the  reflex  and  motor  functions  of  the 
cord.     Medicinal  doses  excite  the  spinal  reflex  and  motor 


AMMONIUM   CARBONATE  139 

centres.  Where  ammonia  is  applied  directly  to  nerve  tissue 
it  excites  in  dilute  solution,  but  paralyzes  functional  activity 
in  concentration.  The  brain  is  unaffected  by  the  therapeutic 
administration  of  ammonia. 

Elimination. — Ammonia  combines  with  acid  in  the 
stomach  and  is  absorbed  into  the  blood.  Its  fate  is  unknown. 
Probably  it  is  oxidized  in  part  and  escapes  as  nitric  acid, 
possibly  to  some  extent  as  urea  and  uric  acid.  The  acidity 
of  urine  is  increased  by  its  elimination. 

Summary. — Heart  and  respiratory  stimulant  and  antacid. 
Externally,  rubefacient,  vesicant,  and  escharotic. 

Uses. — The  indications  for  ammonia  are  closely  in  accord 
with  its  physiological  actions. 

Externally. — It  is  frequently  used  in  stimulating  lini- 
ments. One  part  each  of  water  of  ammonia  and  oil  of  tur- 
pentine, may  be  combined  to  advantage  with  4  to  6  parts  of 
camphor  liniment.  Ammonia  water  is  one  of  the  best 
remedies  to  relieve  pain  and  antagonize  the  action  of  insect 
bites,  as  stings  of  bees  and  wasps.  It  should  be  applied 
directly  to  the  poisoned  part. 

Internally. — Ammonia  is  indicated  when  rapid  stimula- 
tion of  the  heart  and  respiration  is  desirable.  In  emer- 
gencies it  may  be  given  intravenously  (aq.  ammon.  fort.  1 ; 
water,  4  parts) ;  or  by  inhalation.  It  is  serviceable  in  the 
treatment  of  prussic  acid  and  aconite  poisoning,  syncope, 
collapse  and  shock  following  surgical  operations ;  also  in 
snake  bites.  The  spirit  of  ammonia  may  be  prescribed  in 
fevers  as  a  stimulant.  Ammonia  is  inferior  to  ammonium 
carbonate  or  the  aromatic  spirit  in  the  care  of  colic  and 
tympanites. 

Ammonii  Carbonas.      Ammonium   Carbonate.      NH^  HCOa 
NH,  NH,  CO,.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Volatile  salt,  sal  volatile  siccum,  carbonas 
ammonicus,  E.;  ammonium  carbonicum,  P.  G.;  carbonate 
d'ammoniaque,  alkali  volatil  concret,  sel  volatil  d'Angleterre, 


4 
140  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Fr.;  fliiclitige,  laugensalz,  reines  hirchhornsalz,  kohlensaures 
ammonium,  G. 

Derivation, — A  mixture  of  ammonium  chloride  or 
sulphate,  and  calcium  carbonate,  is  sublimed  and  resub- 
limed.  Ammonium  carbonate,  so-called,  is  a  mixture  of 
ammonium  carbonate  and  bicarbonate. 

4  NH,  01  +  2  Ca  C03  =  NH,  HCO,  .NH.NH,  CO,  +  2 
CaCl,  +  NH3  -h  HA 

Properties. — White,  hard,  translucent,  striated  masses, 
having  a  strongly  ammoniacal  odor  without  empyreuma, 
and  a  sharp  saline  taste.  On  exposure  to  the  air  the  salt 
loses  both  ammonia  and  carbonic  dioxide,  becoming  opaque, 
and  is  finally  converted  into  friable,  porous  lumps,  or  a 
white  powder.  Soluble  in  about  5  parts  of  water.  Alcohol 
only  dissolves  the  carbonate  (NH^  NHj  CO2). 

Dose.—R.,  3".  (8.);  C,  3iii.-vi.  (12.-24);  Sh.  &  Sw., 
gr.xv.-xl.  (1.-2.6);  D.,  gr.iii.-x.  (.2-.6);  D.,  emetic,  gr.xv.  (1.). 

PREPARATION. 

Spiritus  Ammonice  Aromaticus.    Aromatic  Spirit  of  Ammonia. 
(U.  S.  &B.  P.) 
Synonym. — Sal   volatile,    alcoolat  ammoniacal  aromatique,  Fr.; 
aromatischer  ammoniakgeist,  G. 

Ammonium  carbonate 34 

Ammonia  water • 90 

Oil  of  lemon 10 

Oil  of  lavender  flowers 1 

Oil  of  nutmeg.... 1 

Alcohol 700 

Distilled  water  to  make 1000 

Properties. — A  nearly  colorless  liquid  when  freshly  prepared,  but 
gradually  acquiring  a  somewhat  darker  tint-  It  has  a  pimgent,  ammo- 
niacal odor  and  taste.     Spec,  gr.0.905. 

Dose.— H.  &C.,  I'lAi.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  D., 
3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.),  well  diluted. 

The  aromatic  spirit  of  ammonia  nearly  resembles  ammo- 
nium carbonate  in  action,  but  the  alcohol  and  volatile  oils 
add  to  the  stimulant  qualities  of  ammonia  and  ammonium 
carbonate. 

Action  Internal. — Ammonium  carbonate  is  decomposed 


AMMONIUM   CHLORIDE  141 

by  acid  in  the  stomach,  but  its  ultimate  fate  is  unknown.  It 
stimulates  gastric  secretion,  vascularity  and  motion,  and 
also  excites  intestinal  peristalsis.  It  is,  therefore,  a  stom- 
achic and  carminative.  It  is  also  an  antacid,  and,  in  large 
doses,  an  emetic  to  dogs.  The  action  of  ammonium  carbo- 
nate is  almost  identical  with  that  of  ammonia  water  in 
stimulating  the  heart  and  respiration,  but  it  has  more  power 
in  augmenting  the  bronchial  secretions. 

Summary. — Cardiac  and  respiratory  stimulant,  expecto- 
rant, stomachic  and  emetic. 

Administration. — Ammonium  carbonate  is  given  in  ball, 
or  in  solution  in  cold  water,  .to  avoid  irritating  fumes  ;  also, 
with  syrup  or  gruel.  It  is  often  prescribed  with  other 
stimulants  and  antispasmodics,  as  alcohol,  capsicum,  cam- 
phor and  asafoetida. 

Uses. — The  indications  for  the  administration  of  ammo- 
nium carbonate  are  much  the  same  as  those  for  ammonia 
preparations.  It  is  a  more  useful  expectorant,  however,  and 
it  and  the  aromatic  spirit  are  more  serviceable  in  the  treat- 
ment of  flatulence.  For  the  latter  condition  in  horses  with 
colic  a  ball  containing  ammonium  carbonate  3  ii-,  and  cap- 
sicum 3  i.,  with  sufficient  linseed  meal  and  molasses  to  make 
the  proper  bulk  and  consistency,  is  often  efficient.  We  may 
use  ammonium  carbonate  alone  in  the  case  of  acute  or 
chronic  bronchitis,  or  it  may  be  combined  with  other  stim- 
ulants, or  expectorants,  as  a-mmonium  chloride. 

Ammonii  Chloridum.     Ammonium  Chloride.     NH^  CI. 
(U.S.&B.  P.) 

Synonym.^Bal  ammoniac,  ammonia  muriatica  or  hydro- 
chloratum,  chloruretum  ammonicum,  sal  ammonicum,  ammo- 
nisB  hydrochloras  or  murias,  muriate  of  ammonia,  E.;. 
chlorure  d'ammonium,  sel  ammoniae,  muriate  d'ammoniaque, 
Fr.;  salmiak,  chlorammonium,  G. 

Properties. — A  white,  crystalline  powder  without  odor, 
having  a  cooling,  saline  taste,  and   permanent  in   the   air.. 


142  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Soluble  in  three  parts  of  water ;  almost  insoluble  in  alcohol. 
Reaction  neutral. 

Dos€.—B..,  3ii.  (8.);  C,  3iii.-vi.  (12.-24.);  Sh.  &  Sw., 
gr.xv.-xl.  (1-2.6);  D.,  gr.iii.-x.  (.2-.6). 

Action  Internal. — Sal  ammoniac  is  a  feeble  heart  and 
respiratory  stimulant,  and  is  not  comparable  to  the  ammonia 
compounds,  or  ammonium  carbonate,  in  this  respect.  It  is 
eliminated  in  great  part  unchanged  by  the  urine,  but  also 
by  the  other  channels.  In  its  excretion  it  stimulates  the 
mucous  membranes,  increases  their  secretions  generally, 
and  is  thought  to  improve  their  nutrition.  Hence  it  has 
been  termed  an  alterative.  .  Ammonium  chloride  both 
excites  the  secretiou  of  the  bronchial  mucous  membrane  and 
renders  it  less  viscid  in  inflammatory  conditions.  It  is 
mildly  diarphoretic,  diuretic  and  chologogue. 

Summary. — Externally  refrigerant,  internally  expector- 
ant, alterative,  feebly  diarphoretic,  diuretic,  and  chologogue. 

Uses. — Four  ounces  each  of  nitre  and  sal  ammoniac  may 
be  dissolved  in  two  quarts  of  water  as  a  refrigerant  lotion. 
Sal  ammoniac  is  indicated  more  especially  in  the  second 
stage  of  acute  bronchitis,  in  chronic  bronchitis,  and  in 
chronic  intestinal  catarrh  with  diarrhoea.  Ammonium 
chloride  may  be  given  to  dogs  with  glycerin  and  chloroform 
water  as  a  cough  mixture.  If  cough  is  excessive,  codeine  or 
morphine  sulphate  can  be  added  to  this  prescription  with 
advantage. 

Liquor  Ammonii  Acetatis.    Solution  of  Ammonium  Acetate. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Spirit  of  Mindererus,  spiritus  Mindereri, 
acetas  ammonicus  liquidus,  E.;  liquor  ammonii  acetici,  P.  G.; 
acetate  d'ammoniaque  liquide,  esprit  de  Mindererus,  Fr.; 
essigsaure  ammonium-fliissigkeit,  G. 

An  aqueous  solution  of  ammonium  acetate  (NH4C2H3O2) 
containing  about  7  per  cent,  of  the  salt,  together  with  small 
amounts  of  acetic  acid  and  carbon  dioxide. 


LITHIUM  CABBONATE  143 

Derivation. — Ammonium  carbonate  is  gradually  added 
to  cold,  diluted  acetic  acid  until  the  latter  is  neutralized. 

Properties. — A  clear,  colorless  liquid,  free  from  empy- 
reuma,  of  a  mildly  saline,  acidulous  taste,  and  an  acid 
reaction. 

Incompatibles. — Acids  and  alkalies. 

i)ose.— H.  &  C,  §ii.-iv.  (60.-120.);  D.,  3ii.-^iii.  (8.-30.). 

Actio7i. — Spirit  of  Mindererus  stimulates  the  secretory 
cells  of  the  kidneys  and  sudoriparous  glands.  In  the 
stomach  it  exerts  a  mild,  antacid  action. 

Summary. — Externally,  refrigerant ;  internally,  diuretic, 
diarphoretic,  and  antacid. 

Uses. — Liquor  ammonii  acetatis  is  an  exceedingly  feeble 
medicine  and  is  often  employed  as  a  vehicle  with  more  pow- 
erful agents  of  its  class,  e.^.,  spiritus  aetheris  nitrosi.  It  is 
useful  as  a  febrifuge. 

I^  Tine,  aconiti   T^xxiv. 

Sodii  bromidi  3  ii. 

Sp'r.  aetheris  nitrosi §  ss. 

M.     Liquor,  ammonii  acetatis  ad §  iv. 

S.    Teas,  every  hour. 

The  foregoing  prescription  is  a  good  palliative  combi- 
nation for  dogs  suffering  with  fever  and  restlessness.  The 
solution  of  ammonium  acetate  is  frequently  conjoined  with 
sweet  spirit  of  nitre  and  ammonium  chloride  or  potassium 
iodide,  in  the  treatment  of  acute  respiratory  diseases  of 
horses,  e.g.,  influenza,  bronchitis,  and  pneumonia.  It  may 
be  added  to  the  drinking  water  without  rendering  it  unpala- 
table. 

liithium. 

{The  Metal  is  not  Used  in  Medicine.) 

LiTHii  Cabbonas.     Lithium  Carbonate.     LijCog.    • 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Synonym. — Carbon  as   lithicus,   carbonate   of  lithia,  E.; 
lithium  carbonicum,  P.  G.;  carbonate  de  lithine,  carbonate 
lithique,  Fr.;  kohlensaures  lithion,  G. 


144  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Derivation. — Made  by  action  of  lithium  chloride  on 
acid  ammonium  carbonate. 

2Li  CI  +  NH,  HCO3  =  Li,C03  +  NH.Cl  +  HCl.  Puri- 
fied by  washing  with  alcohol  and  drying. 

Properties. — A  light,  white  powder,  odorless,  and  having 
an  alkaline  taste.  Permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble  in  80 
parts  of  water ;  insoluble  in  alcohol.     Reaction  alkaline. 

Dose. — D.,  gr.iii.-x.  (.2-. 6). 

LiTHii  CiTRAS.     Lithium  Citrate.     LigCgHsO,. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Lithium  citricum,  citrate  of  lithia,  E.;  citrate 
de  lithine,  Fr.;  citronsaures  lithion,  G. 

Derivation. — Made  by  action  of  citric  acid  on  lithium 
carbonate. 

2H3CeH,0,  +  3Li,C03  =  2  Li3CeH,0,  +  3  H,0  +  3  CO,. 
Recovered  by  evaporation  and  crystallization. 

Properties. — A  white  powder,  odorless,  and  having  a 
cooling,  faintly  alkaline  taste ;  deliquescent  on  exposure  to 
air  ;  soluble  in  2  parts  of  water ;  almost  insoluble  in  alcohol 
or  ether.     Reaction  neutral. 

Dose.—T>.,  gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3). 

ACTION  OF  LITHIUM   SALTS. 

Lithium  salts  are  said  to  form  soluble  compounds  with 
uric  acid  in  the  blood,  and  so  assist  its  elimination  in  the 
urine.  As  lithium  combines  more  readily  with  acid  sodium 
phosphate  in  the  blood  than  with  uric  acid,  it  is  doubtful 
whether  it  is  a  very  efficient  uric  acid"^  solvent  in  the  body. 
The  lithium  salts  alkalize  the  urine  and  notably  increase  its 
secretion. 

Summary. — Lithium  salts  are  diuretics,  and  uric  acid 
solvents  in  some  degree.  The  carbonate  may  be  given  in 
powder  or  pill ;  the  citrate  in  solution. 

Uses. — Lithium  compounds  are  of  little  value  in  veteri- 
nary medicine.  They  are  serviceable,  however,  in  the 
treatment  of  dogs  with  a  very  acid  urine  of  high  specific 

*Uric  acid  can  not  exist  as  such  in  blood,  which  is  an  alkaline  fluid. 


PREPARED   CHALK  145 

gravity;  with  uric  acid  calculus,  or  those  affected  with 
chronic  rheumatism.  The  salts  will  not  dissolve  calculi  in 
the  body,  but  prevent  their  formation. 

Water  is  extremely  useful  in  such  conditions.  Lithium 
citrate  may  be  placed  in  the  drinking  water.  Thirst  should 
be  encouraged  by  the  administration  of  salt  on  the  food,  and 
high  rectal  injections  may  be  given  to  create  absorption  of 
water  by  this  channel.  Lithium  salicylate  is  thought  to  be 
the  better  salt  for  rheumatism.  It  is  probable  that  treat- 
ment with  salicylic  acid  and  lithium  citrate  would  be  more 
satisfactory. 


SECTION  IIL 

Alkaline  Earth   Metals  :    Calcium,  Barium,  Magnesium, 
Aluminum  and  Cerium. 

Calcium. 

{The  Metal  Calcium  is  not  Employed  in  Medicine.) 

Creta  Pr^parata.     Prepared  Chalk.     Ca  C03. 
(U.  S.  k  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Drop  chalk,  E.;  craie  preparee,  Fr.;  prapa- 
rirte  kreide,  G. 

Derivation. — Made  from  chalk  by  levigation,  elutriation 
and  dessication. 

Properties. — A  white,  amorphous  powder,  often  moulded 
into  conical  drops ;  odorless  and  tasteless ;  permanent  in 
the  air.     Almost  insoluble  in  water  ;  insoluble  in  alcohol. 

Incompatihles. — Sulphates  and  acids. 

Dose.—R.,  5i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  C,  5  ii.-iv.  (60.-120.);  Sh.  & 
Sw.,  3  ii.-iv.  (8,-15.);  D.,  gr.x.-  3  i.  (.6-4.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Pulvis  Cretce  Compositus,    Compound  Chalk  Powder.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Chalk,  30;  acacia,  20;  sugar,  50. 
Dose.— D.,  gr.x.-  3  i.  (.6-4.). 


14^  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Mistura  Cretce.    Chalk  Mixture.    (U.  S.  P.) 
Compound  chalk  powder,  200;  cinnamon  water,  400;  water  to  make 
1000. 

Dose.— D.,  liAi.  (30.-60.). 

Trochisci  Cretce.    Troches  of  Chalk.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Contain  .25gm.,  or  gr.iv.,  each. 
Dose. — D.,  same  as  prepared  chalk. 

Calch  Carbonas  PHiECiPiTATUS.     Precipitated  Calcium  Car- 
bonate.    CaCOs.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Calcis  carbonas  praecipitata,  B.  P.;  pre- 
cipitated carbonate  of  lime,  creta  prsecipitata,  carbonas  cal- 
cicus  praecipitatus,  E.;  calcaria  carbonica  praecipitata,  P.  G.; 
carbonate  de  chaux  precipite,  craie  precipitee,  Fr.;  prse- 
cipitirten  kohlensauren  kalk,  G. 

Derivation. — Obtained  by  precipitation  of  calcium  chlo- 
ride with  sodium  carbonate. 

CaCl^  -h  Na,Co3  =  CaC03  +  2  NaCl.  Dry  the  precipi- 
tate. 

Properties. — A  fine,  white  powder,  without  odor  or  taste, 
and  permanent  in  the  air.  Nearly  insoluble  in  water;  insol- 
uble in  alcohol.  The  solubility  is  increased  by  presence  of 
carbon  dioxide.     Permanent  in  air. 

Dose.—R.,  5i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  C,  5  ii.-iv.  (60.-120.);  Sh.  k 
Sw.,  3ii.-iv.  (8,-15.);  D.,  gr.x.-3i.  (.6-4.). 

Calcium  Carbonate. 

Action  External.  —  Dessicant  and  slightly  astringent 
powder ;  also  protective. 

Action  Internal. — Alimentary  Canal. — Calcium  carbonate 
is  the  slowest  acting  antacid,  because  of  its  comparative 
insolubility,  and  is  of  value  when  it  can  exert  its  long- 
continued  influence  throughout  the  digestive  tract.  It 
resembles  bismuth  in  mechanically  coating  or  protecting 
inflamed  or  irritable  surfaces.  It  is  not  so  astringent  nor 
antiseptic   as   the   bismuth   salts,  and   these  are  generally 


LIME  147 

preferable  to  chalk  for  the  smaller  animals.  It  is  excreted 
unchanged  in  the  faeces. 

Administration.— Calcium  carbonate  may  be  given  to 
dogs  in  troches,  pills  or  powder  ;  to  other  animals  in  powder, 
balls  or  electuary.  Chalk  is  commonly  prescribed  suspended 
in  flour  gruel,  milk  or  mucilage  to  the  larger  animals.  The 
official  preparations  are  suitable  for  dogs. 

Uses. — Chalk  forms  a  dusting  powder  for  moist  eczema, 
slight  burns,  and  intertrigo.  Zinc  oxide  and  starch  (1  to  4)  is, 
however,  a  better  preparation.  Chalk  is  the  most  useful 
antacid  for  diarrhoea  accompanied  by  fermentation  of  the 
intestinal  contents,  while  its  local  astringent  and  protecting 
influence  assist  in  overcoming  the  trouble.  It  is  especially 
good  for  foals  and  calves  given  in  flour  gruel,  and  often 
combined  with  catechu,  ginger  and  opium.  The  following 
prescription  is  appropriate  for  dogs  with  diarrhoea : 

Tine,  kino,  tine,  catechu  co.  and  tine,  opii  camphor,  aa 

5ss.;  mistura  cretse  to  make  '^iv.     S.  Teaspoonful    every 

three  hours.     A  serviceable  ball  for  horses  with  diarrhoea 

contains:    Creolin,  chalk   and  ginger,  aa    ^ss.;  powdered 

opium,  3  i. 

Calx.     Lime.     CaO.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Burned  lime,  quicklime,  calcaria,  calx  viva, 
calx  usta,  oxydum  calcicum,  E.;  calcaria  usta,  P.  G.;  chaux, 
chaux  vive,  Fr.;  kalk,  gebrannter  kalk,  G. 

Derivation. — Prepared  by  burning  white  marble,  oyster 
shells,  or  the  purest  varieties  of  natural  calcium  carbonate, 
to  expel  carbon  dioxide. 

Properties. — Hard,  white,  or  grayish-white  masses,  which 
in  contact  with  air  gradually  attract  moisture  and  carbon 
dioxide  and  fall  to  a  white  powder ;  odorless ;  of  a  sharp, 
caustic  taste.  Reaction  intensely  alkaline.  Soluble  in 
about  750  parts  of  water ;  insoluble  in  alcohol. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Liquor  Calcis.     Solution  of  Lime.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
A  saturated,  aqueous  solution  of  calcium  hydrate. 


148  INOEGANIO   AGENTS  ' 

Synonym. — Lime  water,  solution  of  calcium  hydrate,  aqua  calca- 
riae  ustae,  aquacalcis,  calcaria  soluta,  oxydum  calcicum,  aqua  solutum,^ 
E. ;  aqua  calcariae,  P.  G. ;  eau  (liquor)  de  chaux,  Fr. ;  kalkwasser,  G. 

Derivation. — Dissolve  lime  in  water.  The  percentage  of  calcium 
hydrate  [Ca  (OH)2]  varies  with  the  temperature,  being  somewhat  over 
0.17  percent,  at  15°  C.  (59°  F.),  and  diminishing  as  the  temperature  rises. 

Properties. — A  clear,  colorless  liquid  without  odor,  and  having  a 
saline  and  feebly  caustic  taste.  It  absorbs  carbon  dioxide  from  the  air, 
so  that  a  pellicle  of  calcium  carbonate  forms  on  the  surface  of  the  liquid. 
Reaction  strongly  alkaline. 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  I  iv.-vi.  (120.-180.);  Calves,  §  ii.  (60.);  D.,  3  i.-viii. 
(4.-30.). 

Syrupus  Calais.     Syrup  of  Lime.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Lime,  65;  sugar,  400;  water  to  make  1000. 

Dose. — Calves  and  dogs,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.).  Well  diluted  with  water  or 
milk. 

Linimentum  Calais.    Lime  Liniment.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Synonym. — Carron  oil. 

Solution  of  lime  and  linseed  oil,  of  each  one  volume. 
Dose.— Foals  and  calves,  I  ii.-iv.  (60.-120.). 

ACTION  OF  LIME  AND   SOLUTION  OF  LIME. 

External. — Lime  is  caustic,  but  less  so  than  potassium 
or  sodium  hydrate.  It  is  an  irritant.  The  dust  of  quicklime 
will  cause  conjunctivitis.  If  inhaled,  it  will  cause  iuflamma- 
tion  of  the  air  passages  ;  if  swallowed,  irritation  of  the  diges- 
tive tract.  The  hydrate  is  a  caustic  also,  but  is  not  so  active 
as  lime.     Solution  of  lime  is  a  sedative  and  astringent. 

Internal. — Neither  lime  nor  slaked  lime  (calcium  hydrate) 
are  used  internally,  except  in  the  official  preparations. 
Solution  of  lime  acts  as  a  sedative,  antacid,  and  astringent 
in  the  stomach.  It  dissolves  mucous  secretions.  Lime 
water  is  also  a  mild  astringent  in  the  bowels. 

Uses. — Lime  is  employed  outside  of  the  body  to  destroy 
putrefying  organic  matter  by  combining  with  water  and 
forming  slaked  lime,  which  absorbs  many  of  the  products 
of  decomposition.  Whitewash,  a  mixture  of  slaked  lime 
and  water,  is  not  a  disinfectant,  although  it  covers  sources 
of  infection.     It  may  be   made  so  by   combination   with 


PBECIPITATED  CALCIUM  PHOSPHATE  149 

sufficient  crude  carbolic  acid  to  make  a  2-per-cent.  solution. 
Linimentum  calcis  is  one  of  the  most  satisfactory  appli- 
cations for  superficial  burns.  Old  clean  cotton  or  linen 
cloths  are  soaked  in  it  and  spread  over  the  burned  surface 
of  the  body.  This  preparation  has  been  facetiously  called 
"carrion"  instead  of  carron  oil,  because  it  is  not  germicidal. 
Therefore,  antiseptic  ointments  are  preferable  (as,  aristol,  1 ; 
vaseline,  8)  in  burns  giving  rise  to  a  raw  surface.  A 
mixture  of  slaked  lime  and  charcoal,  equal  parts,  makes  a 
useful  stimulant,  absorbent,  dessicant,  and  antiseptic 
dressing  powder  for  wounds  and  ulcers  in  horses.  Lime 
water  is  serviceable  in  relieving  itching  in  skin  diseases, 
and  dries  up  moist  surfaces  through  its  astringent  proper- 
ties. With  carbolic  acid  (1  to  50)  lime  water  is  most  efficient 
in  allaying  pruritus.  Lime  water  is  inimical  to  apthous 
ulcerations  and  may  be  employed  to  swab  out  the  mouth  in 
this  disease.  Enemata  of  lime  water  destroy  pin  worms. 
Solution  of  lime  is  one  of  the  best  remedies  in  the  treatment 
of  vomiting  in  dogs.  It  is  a  direct  sedative  to  the  stomach, 
and,  mixed  with  milk,  equal  volumes,  prevents  the  rapid 
coagulation  of  the  casein,  lessens  the  formation  of  large, 
tough  curds  in  the  stomach)  and  assists  the  retention  and 
digestion  of  milk.  Syrup  of  lime  is  twenty-four  times 
stronger  in  calcium  hydrate  than  lime  water,  and  is  more 
astringent.  It  may  be  given  to  foals  and  calves  suffering 
from  indigestion  and  diarrhoea.  It  should  be  administered 
in  a  considerable  quantity  of  milk. 

Lime  water  may  be  given  as  an  antidote  in  poisoning  by 
acids.  Carron  oil  is  a  good,  mild  laxative  and  antacid  for 
horses  with  "heaves."  It  is  given  on  the  food.  Furthermore, 
it  is  an  excellent  purgative  for  foals  and  calves  in  the  treat- 
ment of  diarrhoea  and  indigestion. 

Calcii  Phosphas  Pr^cipitatus.    Precipitated  Calcium  Phos- 
phate.    Ca3(P0J,.     (U.S.  P.) 
Synonym. — Calcis  phosphas  prsecipitata,  B.  P.;  precipi- 
tated phosphate  of  lime,  phosphas  calcicus  praecipitatus,  E.; 


150  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

calcaria  phosphorica,  P.  G.;  phosphate  de  chaux  hydrate, 
Fr.;  phosphorsaure  kalkerde,  G. 

Derivation. — Obtained  from  bone  ash  (impure  calcium 
phosphate)  by  solution  in  hydrochloric  acid  and  purified  by 
precipitation  with  ammonia  water  and  by  washing  with  water. 

Properties, — A  light,  white,  amorphous  powder;  odor- 
less and  tasteless  and  permanent  in  the  air.  Almost  insol- 
uble in  cold  water ;  insoluble  in  alcohol ;  easily  soluble  in 
hydrochloric  or  nitric  acids. 

i)o5e.— H.,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  C,  ^ss.-i.  (15.-30.); Sh.  &  Sw., 
3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  D.,  gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3). 

Syrupus  Calcii  Lactophosphatis.     Syrup  of  Calcium  Lacto- 
phosphate.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Precipitated  calcium  carbonate 25 

Lactic  acid 60 

Phosphoric  acid 36 

Orange  flower  water 25 

Sugar 700 

Water,  a  sufficient  quantity  to  make 1000 

Dose, — Foals  and  calves,  Jss.-i.  (15.-30.);  D.,  3  i.-iv. 
(4-15.). 

Calcium  Phosphate. 

Action  and  Uses. — liime  phosphate  is  a  constituent  of 
bone  to  the  extent  of  50  per  cent,  and  of  the  soft  tissue  in 
less  amount.  It  is,  therefore,  essential  to  the  body  as  a 
tissue  builder,  and  is  a  food  rather  than  a  medicine. 
Disease  of  bones  (rickets)  can  be  artificially  produced  by 
withholding  calcium  phosphate  from  the  food.  Other  bone 
diseases  (fragilitas  ossium  and  caries)  occur  naturally  in 
animals  receiving  an  insufficient  diet.  These  same  diseases 
disappear  on  treatment  with  calcium  phosphate.  The  value 
of  the  salt  in  these  disorders,  therefore,  appears  to  be 
conclusive.  Moreover,  in  wasting  affections  phosphates  are 
eliminated  in  considerable  amount  by  the  urine.  A  reason- 
able deduction  would  lead  us  to  use  phosphates  in  such 
conditions.     The  diseases  most  appropriately  treated  with 


BARIUM  151 

Calcium  phosphate,  according  to  the  foregoing,  are  rickets, 
osteomalacia,  delayed  union  in  fractures ;  also  anaemia, 
malnutrition,  and  weakness  in  young  animals.  Here  the 
drug  should  be  given  with  iron. 

Administration. — Precipitated  calcium  phosphate  may 
be  given  on  the  food,  but  is  more  readily  absorbed  if  it  is 
administered  in  the  syrup  of  calcium  lactophosphate. 

Calx  Chlorata.     (See  Chlorine,  p.  222.) 

Barium. 

(Barium  is  not  used  in  the  metallic  state.) 

Baeii  Chloridum.     Barium  Chloride.     BaClg.   (Non-official.) 

Derivation.  —  Native  barium  sulphate  is  fused  with 
charcoal.  The  resulting  sulphide  is  treated  with  hydro- 
chloric acid.  BaSO,  +  2C  =  BaS  +  2  CO,.  BaS  +  2  HCl 
=  BaCl,  +  H,S. 

Properties.  —  Occurs  in  colorless,  glistening  rhombic 
plates  ;  taste  bitter  and  disagreable  ;  permanent  in  dry  air  ; 
soluble  in  2.5  parts  of  cold  water ;  reaction  neutral. 

Dose. — H.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  intertracheally,  gr.vii.-xv.  (.5-1.). 

Action  Internal. — Barium  chloride  is  an  intense  irritant 
if  swallowed  in  considerable  amount  and  in  insufficient 
dilution.  Large  medicinal  doses  stimulate  the  muscular 
coat  of  the  bowels  and  cause  increased  peristalsis  and 
purging.  Evacuations  from  the  bowels  follow  in  horses,  15 
to  45  minutes  after  the  salt  is  given  in  drench  ;  in  one  to  two 
hours  after  administration  to  these  animals  in  ball.  Intra- 
venous injection  is  unsafe,  and  subcutaneous  application 
may  occasion  abscess.  The  drug  resembles  physostigmine 
in  its  action  on  the  intestines. 

Heart  and  Blood  Vessels. — Barium  chloride  makes  the  ven- 
tricular contractions  of  the  heart  stronger  and  slower.  The 
salt  acts  entirely  on  the  heart  muscle  and  does  not  influence 
the  vagi.  Lethal  doses  are  followed  by  slower  and  slower 
ventricular  contractions,   succeeded  by  peristalsis   of  the 


15*2  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

cardiac  mascle,  and,  finally,  by  stoppage  of  the  heart  in 
systole. 

Barium  chloride  also  directly  excites  the  muscular  walls 
of  the  capillaries  and,  like  physostigmine,  increases  vascular 
tension  in  small  doses. 

Micscles. — Barium  chloride  stimulates  muscular  contrac- 
tion when  it  is  applied  locally.  The  potassium  salts 
antagonize  the  action  of  barium  chloride  on  the  circulation 
and  muscles. 

Summary.  —  Circulatory  stimulant,  and  purgative  in 
large  doses. 

Uses. — Barium  chloride  is  a  new  remedy  in  veterinary 
medicine.  "We  cannot,  therefore,  speak  of  it  with  absolute 
certainty  yet.  The  doses  required  to  produce  catharsis  in 
the  horse  are  almost  toxic.  The  quantity  should  be  propor- 
tioned to  the  weight  of  the  patient,  and  well  diluted  with 
water.  The  average  dose  for  the  horse,  intertracheally,  is 
1  gm.,  or  15  gr.,  in  one -half  ounce  of  water.  The  drug  has 
been  employed  with  reputed  success  to  cause  rapid  purging 
in  colic  and  obstinate  constipation  of  horses. 

The  action  is  usually  reliable  and  safe,  but  some  deaths 
have  been  attributed  to  the  action  of  barium  chloride. 

Magnesium. 
(The  meted  is  not  used  in  medicine,) 

Magnesii  Sulphas.  Magnesium  Sulphate.  MgSO^  +  7  HjO. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Epsom  salt,  sal  amarum,  sal  Epsomense,  sal 
anglicum,  sulfas  magnesicus,  etc.,  E.;  magnesia  sulfurica, 
P.  G.;  sulfate  de  magnesie,  sel  d'Epsom,  sel  de  sedlitz,  sel 
amer,  Fr.;  bittersalz,  schwefelsaure  magnesia,  G. 

Derivation. — It  is  obtained  from  native  dolomite,  a 
double  carbonate  of  magnesium  and  calcium,  or  magnesite 
(MgC03).    MgC03  +  H,SO,  =  MgSO,  +  H,0  +  CO, 

Properties. — Small,  colorless,  rhombic  prisms,  or  acicular 
crystals,  without  odor,  and   having  a  cooling,  saline   and 


MAGNESIUM  SULPHATE  153 

bitter  taste  ;  slowly  efflorescent  in  dry  air ;  soluble  in  1.5 
parts  of  water  ;  insoluble  in  alcohol ;  reaction  neutral. 

Incompatibles. — Lime  water,  alkaline  carbonates,  phos- 
phoric acid,  phosphates,  silver  nitrate  and  lead  acetate. 

Dose. — ^H.,  laxative,  §  ii.-iv.  (60.-120.);  C,  purgative, 
M-ii.  (500.-1,000.);  laxative,  ^iii.-iv.  (90.-120.);  Calves, 
5ii.-iii.  (60.-90.);  Sh.,  §iv.-vi.  (120.-180.);  D.,  3i.-iv.  (4.-15.), 

Action  Infernal. — Epsom  salt  is  the  best  purgative  for 
general  purposes  in  the  treatment  of  cattle  and  sheep.  Its 
mode  of  action  is  similar  to  that  described  under  sodium 
sulphate.  Briefly,  magnesium  sulphate  causes  purgation  by 
increasing  intestinal  secretion,  retarding  absorption  of  fluid 
from  the  bowels,  and  probably  by  stimulating  peristalis. 
The  salt  moves  the  bowels,  in  the  case  of  the  larger  animals, 
usually  within  twelve  or  fifteen  hours.  It  is  indirectly  a 
cholagogue,  by  sweeping  bile  out  of  the  intestines. 

Epsom  salt  is  absorbed  to  some  extent,  and  is  eliminated 
by  the  kidneys  and  sweat  glands,  increasing  the  secretions 
of  these  organs,  especially  when  the  dose  is  small. 

Summary.  —  Hydragogue  and  cholagogue  cathartic. 
Feeble  diuretic  and  diarphoretic. 

Uses. — Magnesium  sulphate  is  sometimes  given  to  horses 
as  a  laxative,  and,  in  promoting  the  activity  of  the  sweat 
glands  and  kidneys,  is  useful  as  a  febrifuge  in  pyrexia.  It 
is  frequently  combined  with  stimulants,  bitters,  and  mineral 
acids  in  fevers  :  e.g.,  tine.  gent,  co.,  spr.  setheris  nitrOsi,  acid, 
sulphurici  dil.,  etc.  Epsom  salt  is  serviceable  in  assisting 
the  action  of  peristaltic  agents,  as  aloes.  Small  doses  are 
given  to  horses  in  the  drinking  water  to  accomplish  this  end. 

The  salt  is  of  advantage  in  the  treatment  of  diarrhoea, 
dysentery,  overloaded  or  impacted  colon  in  horses,  when  it 
is  given  in  frequent  and  repeated  doses  in  connection  with 
oil.  An  enema,  consisting  of  Epsom  salt  2  lbs.,  glycerin 
5  viii.,  and  water  1  quart,  may  be  thrown  high  up  in  the 
bowel  to  secure  rapid  purgation  in  horses  suffering  from 
colic. 

Magnesium  sulphate  is  the  most  common  purgative  in 


X54  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

use  for  luraiiiaiits.*  It  is,  therefore,  impossible  to  enumerate 
special  indicatious  for  its  administration.  When  a  speedy 
action  is  requisite,  Epsom  salt  should  be  given  with  a  large 
amount  of  water,  and  thirst  should  be  encouraged  by  the 
addition  of  common  salt.  When,  on  the  other  hand,  it  is 
essential  to  remove  water  or  morbid  effusions  from  the  body, 
the  salt  should  be  exhibited  in  concentration,  and  the  patient 
should  be  deprived  of  water  to  a  considerable  extent. 

Magnesium  sulphate  is  an  antidote  to  lead  and  barium 
salts,  forming  insoluble  sulphates ;  also  to  carbolic  acid^ 
giving  rise  to  the  harmless  sulpho-carbolate  in  the  blood. 
It  is  not  used  in  canine  practice  so  often  as  oil  and 
calomel,  but  is  sonjetimes  serviceable  in  irritable  states  of 
the  bowels  (piles,  duodenitis,  and  intestinal  catarrh),  in 
teaspoonful  doses,  and  as  a  laxative,  on  alternate  days,  for 
eczema. 

Magnesium  and  sodium  sulphate  are  more  frequently 
prescribed  for  dogs  by  German  practitioners.  They  not 
uncommonly  occasion  vomiting  in  these  animals. 

Magnesii  Carbonas.     Magnesium  Carbonate. 
(MgCo,),  Mg(OH),  +  5  HA     (U.  8.  P.) 

Synonym. — Magnesii  carbonas  ponderosa  vellevis,  B.  P.- 
magnesia  alba,  magnesia  hydrico-carbonica,  carbonas  mag- 
nesicus,  carbonate  of  magnesia,  E.;  magnesia  carbonica,  P.  G.; 
carbonate  de  magnesie,  magn^sie  blanche,  Fr.;  weisse 
magnesia,  G. 

Derivation. — Mix  concentrated,  boiling,  aqueous  solu- 
tions of  magnesium  sulphate  and  sodium  carbonate,  and 
evaporate. 

5  MgSO,  +  5  Na,  Co,  +  H,0  =  (MgC03),  Mg(OH), 
+  5  NA2SO4  +  CO2.  Purified  by  digestion  with  water, 
filtration  and  drying. 

Properties.— Slight,  white,  friable  masses  (heavy  mag- 

*  Epsom  salts  are  given  to  cattle  and  sheep  with  ginger  and  molas  es,  one 
teaspoonful  of  each  to  the  ounce  of  salts  and  often  with  an  equal  weight  of 
common  salt. 


MAGNESIA  155 

nesium),  or  a  light,  white  powder  (light  magnesium),  without 
odor,  and  having  a  slightly  earthy  taste ;  permanent  in  the 
air  ;  almost  insoluble  in  water,  to  which,  however,  it  imparts 
a  slightly  alkaline  reaction ;  insoluble  in  alcohol. 

Dose. — Foals  and  calves,  3  i--ii-  (4.-8.);  D.,  gr.v.- 3  i. 
(.3-4). 

Magnesia.     Magnesia.     MgO.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Magnesia  levis,  light  magnesia,  B.P.;  calcined 
magnesia,  magnesia  calcinata,  E.;  magnesia  usta,  P.  G.; 
magnesie,  magnesie  calcinee,  Fr.;  gebrannte  magnesia,  G. 

Derivation. — Heat  magnesium  carbonate.  4  (MgCOj). 
Mg(OH),  +  5  H,0  =  5  MgO  +  6  H,0  +  4  CO,.  Water 
and  carbon  dioxide  are  driven  off  and  magnesia  (MgO)  is  left. 

Properties. — A  white,  very  light,  very  fine  powder,  with- 
out odor,  and  having  an  earthy,  but  not  a  saline  taste.  On 
exposure  to  the  air  it  absorbs  moisture  and  carbon  dioxide  ; 
almost  insoluble  in  water ;  insoluble  in  alcohol. 

Dose. — Foals  and  calves,  3  i.-ii.  (4-8.);  D.,  gr.v.- 3  L 
(.3-4.). 

Magnesia  Ponderosa.     Heavy  Magnesia.     MgO.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Derivation. — Made  from  light  magnesia  by  trituration 
with  alcohol,  drying  and  pulverizing. 

Properties. — A  white,  dense,  very  fine  powder.  Only 
differs  in  tests  from  light  magnesia  in  that  it  does  not  readily 
unite  with  water  to  form  a  gelatinous  hydrate. 

Dose. — Foals  and  calves,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  D.,  gr.v.- 3  i. 
(.3-4.). 

ACTION   OF  MAGNESIUM   CARBONATES   AND   OXIDES. 

Internal. — Alimentary  Canal. — These  salts  are  antacid 
and  neutralize  abnormal  acidity,  due  to  fermentation, 
when  exhibited  after  a  meal.  The  carbonate  also  exerts 
a  sedative  action  in  liberating  carbon  dioxide  in  the 
stomach,  and  both  the  carbonate  and  oxide  unite  with  the 


156  INORGANIC  AGENTS  > 

gastric  juice  to  form  chlorides,  lactates  and  bicarbonates. 
These  compounds  are  mild,  saline  purgatives. 

Blood  and  Urine. — The  oxide  and  carbonate  of  magne- 
sium alkalize  the  blood  and  urine,  and  are  slight  diuretics. 
They  resemble  potassium  and  sodium  bicarbonates,  as 
antacids,  but  are  milder  because  feebly  absorbed. 

Uses. — Phillip's  milk  of  magnesia  is  a  good  laxative  and 
antacid  preparation  for  puppies.  One  or  more  teaspoonfuls 
may  be  added  to  milk,  which  will  be  taken  voluntarily. 
Magnesia  is  a  useful  remedy  for  foals  and  calves  affected 
with  intestinal  indigestion,  tympanites  and  acid  diarrhoea. 
It  may  be  given  to  advantage  in  powder :  magnesia  and 
rhubarb,  2  drachms  each  ;  with  ginger,  one  drachm.  This 
dose  should  be  administered  in  milk  or  flour  gruel.  Magnesia 
may  give  rise  to  intestinal  concretions  if  its  use  is  persisted 
in  for  a  considerable  period. 

Magnesium  carbonate  and  oxide  are  antidotes  to  mineral 
acids,  oxalic  acid,  salts  of  mercury,  arsenic  and  copper,  and 
alkaloids,  by  alkalizing  the  gastric  contents  and  rendering 
these  bodies  insoluble.  Arsenic  antidote  is  kept  on  hand 
at  drug  stores  and  is  made  by  adding  solution  of  ferric 
sulphate  to  an  aqueous  mixture  of  magnesia  (see  ferri 
oxidum  hydratum  cum  magnesia,  p.  182). 

\  Aluminum. 

(The  metal  is  not  used  as  medicine.) 

Alumen.    Alum.    A1,K,  (SO J,  +  24  H,0.      (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Potassium  alum,  aluminum  and  potassium 
sulphate,  sulphate  of  aluminium  and  potassium,  E.;  alun, 
sulphate  d'alumine  et  de  potasse,  Fr.;  alaun,  kalialaun,  G. 

Derivation. — ^From  alum  slate,  clay,  shale  or  schist,  a 
native  mixture  of  aluminium  silicate  and  iron  sulphide. 
This  is  roasted  and  exposed  to  the  air,  when  the  sulphur  is 
oxidized  into  sulphuric  acid  and  combines  in  part  with 
aluminium    and    iron  to    form    sulphates.      The  mass  is 


DRIED  ALUM  157 

lixiviated  with  water,  and  aluminum  and  iron  sulphates 
together  with  sulphuric  acid  are  recovered  in  solution.  The 
solution  is  concentrated  and  to  it  is  added  potassium 
chloride.  The  double  sulphate  of  potassium  and  aluminum 
(alum)  is  formed,  which  crystallizes  out  on  cooling,  while 
potassium  sulphate  and  ferric  chloride  remain  as  bye- 
products.     Alum  is  purified  by  recrystallization. 

Properties. — Large,  colorless,  octohedral  crystals,  some- 
times modified  by  cubes,  or  in  crystalline  fragments  ;  without 
odor,  but  having  a  sweetish  and  strongly  astringent  taste. 
On  exposure  to  the  air  the  crystals  are  liable  to  absorb 
ammonia  and  acquire  a  whitish  coating.  Soluble  in  9  parts 
of  water.  It  is  also  soluble  in  warm  glycerin  ;  insoluble  in 
alcohol ;  reaction  acid. 

Incomputibles. — Iron,  lead  and  mercury  salts,  alkalies, 
lime,  tartrates  and  tannic  acid. 

Dose.—K.  &  C,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.xx.-3i. 
(1.3-4.);  D.,,gr.v.-x.  (.3-.6);  emetic,  D.,  3i.  (4). 

Alumen  Exsiccatum.     Dried  Alum.     ALK,  (SO,),. 
(U.S.&B.P.) 

Synonym.— Alumen  ustum, burnt  alum,E.;  alum  calcine 
(desseche  brule),  Fr.;  gebrannter  alaun,  G. 

Derivation. — Heat  100  Gm.  of  alum  moderately  until 
aqueous  vapor  ceases  to  be  disengaged,  and  the  product  is 
reduced  to  55  Gm. 

Alumini  Hydras.    Aluminum  Hydrate.    X\{0'B),.  (U.S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Aluminum  hydroxide,  hydrated  alumina,  E.; 
alumine,  Fr.;  thonerdehydrat,  reine  thonerde,  G. 

Derivation. — Alum,  100  Gm.;  sodium  carbonate,  100  Gm.; 
water,  a  sufficient  quantity.  Mix  hot,  boiling  solutions  of 
alum  and  sodium  carbonate.  Precipitate  strained,  washed, 
-and  dried. 

Properties. — A  white,  light,  amorphous  powder ;  odorless 


158  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

and  tasteless ;  permanent  in  dry  air ;  insoluble  in  water  or 
alcohol. 

Dose. — Same  as  alum. 


Alumini  Sulphas.   Aluminum  Sulphate.   Al2(SOj8  4-16H20. 

(U.'  S.  P.) 

5'?/7i07i2/m.— Sulphate  of  aluminum,  E.;  sulphate  d'alum- 
ine,  Fr.;  schwefelsaure  thonerde,  G. 

Derivation. — Aluminum  hydroxide  [Al  (0H)3]  is  dis- 
solved in  diluted  sulphuric  acid/ and  the  solution  is  filtered 
and  evaporated  to  dryness. 

Properties. — A  white,  crystalline  powder,  without  odor, 
having  a  sweetish  and  afterwards  astringent  taste  ;  perma- 
nent in  the  air ;  soluble  in  1.2  parts  of  water ;  insoluble  in 
alcohol ;  reaction  acid. 

Dose. — Same  as  alum. 

Aluminum  Salts. 

Action  External. — Dried  alum  is  a  superficial  caustic,  in 
contact  with  raw  surfaces,  on  account  of  its  affinity  for 
water.  It  is  only  used  externally.  Alum  has  no  action  on 
unbroken  skin,  but  applied  to  mucous  membranes  or 
denuded  parts  it  is  antiseptic  and  astringent;  coagulates 
albumin  of  discharges;  combines  with  albumin  of  the 
tissues,  which  it  coagulates ;  squeezes  blood  out  of  the 
vessels ;  reduces  inflammation  and  makes  the  part  whiter, 
tougher  and  denser.  Alum  is  an  haemostatic,  stopping 
bleeding  by  compression  of  the  structures  surrounding  the 
vessels,  and  by  causing  blood  to  clot.  Alum  coagulates 
casein  and  gelatin  in  the  presence  of  an  alkali. 

Action  Internal.  —  Stomach  and  Intestines.  —  Enormous 
doses  of  alum  produce  gastro-enteritis,  while  large  doses 
cause  vomiting  in  carnivora.  All  the  secretions  are  dimin- 
ished in  the  alimentary  canal,  and  constipation  ensues, 
unless  the  dose  is  excessive.  Traces  of  alum  are  said  to 
appear  in  the  urine,  but  since  the  salt  coagulates  albumin, 
absorption  cannot  occur  to  any  extent.     Alum   does  not, 


ALUMINUM  SULPHATE  159 

therefore,  occasion  any  astringent  action  in  the  body  outside 
of  the  digestive  tract,  and  is  excieted  by  the  bowels. 

Uses  External.  —  Alum  is  employed  mainly  for  local 
surgical  purposes.  In  arresting  slight  hemorrhages  it  may 
be  applied  in  saturated  solution  on  absorbent  cotton 
pledgets,  or  in  the  form  of  burnt  alum  dusted  upon  the 
bleeding  surface.  Epistaxis  may  be  controlled  by  the 
injection  of  a  strong  solution  into  the  nostrils,  or  by  insuffla- 
tion of  burnt  alum.  Alum  is  sometimes  used  on  granulating 
surfaces  of  indolent  ulcers,  or  wounds,  as  a  slight  caustic, 
stimulant  and  antiseptic.  It  can  be  employed  alone,  or  as 
a  dusting  powder,  containing :  alum,  1  part ;  charcoal,  4 
parts;  and  salicylic  acid,  2  parts.  Alumen  exsiccatum  will 
often  prevent  the  escape  of  synovia  from  small  punctured 
wounds  when  applied  to  their  apertures.  '  Solutions 
(gr.iii.-v.  to  5  i-)  a-r©  occasionally  instilled  into  the  eye  in 
conjunctivitis,  but  alum  is  not  generally  so  satisfactory  as 
boric  acid,  zinc  sulphate,  or  silver  nitrate,  in  this  disease. 
Alum  crystals  may  be  applied  with  profit  to  granular  lids. 
Alum  is  used  more  frequently  in  the  treatment  of  stomatitis, 
or  apthous  sore  mouth.  It  is  also  beneficial  in  ptyalism.  A 
5-per-cent.  solution  may  be  utilized  to  touch  the  inflamed 
oral  parts  by  means  of  a  swab.  A  spray  of  the  same  strength 
is  serviceable  for  the  cure  of  laryngitis  and  bronchitis  in 
dogs. 

A  2-per-cent.  solution  is  appropriate  as  an  injection  for 
otorrhoea,  or  canker  of  the  ear,  attacking  dogs.  A  similar 
solution  will  relieve  leucorrhoea,  pruritus  vulvae,  and  pro- 
lapsus ani. 

Uses  Internal. — Alum  is  a  prompt,  safe  and  non-depress- 
ing emetic  for  dogs.  It  is  suitable  in  poisoning,  or  when 
the  secretions  are  excessive  in  laryngitis  or  bronchitis. 
Teaspoonful  doses  should  be  given  in  solution  in  syrup 
every  15  minutes  in  these  latter  diseases,  until  vomiting 
occurs.  Aluminum  hydrate  is  an  antacid  and  astringent. 
It  combines  with  acid  in  the  stomach,  (antacid)  and  goes 
into  a  soluble  form  when  it  acts  as  an  astringent  in  the 


160  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

bowels.  It  is,  therefore,  more  applicable  for  internal  use  in 
the  treatment  of  diarrhoea  and  dysentery.  Other  astringents, 
such  as  tannic  acid  in  some  form,  lead  acetate,  or  copper 
sulphate,  are,  however,  usually  more  valuable  in  diarrhoeal 
disorders.  Aluminum  sulphate  may  be  used  interchange- 
ably with  alum,  externally  or  internally. 

Cerium. 

(Cerium  is  not  employed  medicinally. J 

Cerii  Oxalas.     Cerium  Oxalate.     Cq^  i^fiX  +  9  HjO. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Cerous  oxalate. 

Derivation. — Precipitate  a  solution  of  ammonium  oxalate 
with  a  soluble  salt  of  cerium. 

Properties. — A  white,  granular  powder,  without  odor  or 
taste,  and  permanent  in  the  air ;  insoluble  in  water,  alcohol 
or  ether. 

I)ose.—T>.,  gr.iii.-v.  (.18-.3). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  physiological  details  concerning 
the  action  of  cerium  are  unknown.  It  is  useful  in  relieving 
vomiting  of  a  reflex  or  nervous  character,  and  is  often  com- 
bined with  bismuth  salts.  Cerium  oxalate  is  soluble  in  the 
gastric  juice. 


SECTION    IV. 

Plumbum,  Argentum,  Zincum,  Cuprum  and  Bismuthum. 

Plumbum. 

(Lead  is  not  used  in  the  metallic  state  in  veterinary  medicine^ 
except  as  a  last  resort.) 

Plumbi  Oxidum.     Lead  Oxide.     PbO.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Litharge,  E.;  lithargyrum,  P.  G.;  bleiglatte, Gc 
Derivation. — Made  by  roasting  lead  in  the  air. 


^       LEAD  ACETATE  161 

Properties. — A  heavy,  yellowish  or  reddish-yellow  pown 
der,  or  minute  scales,  without  odor  or  taste.  On  exposure 
to  the  air  it  slowly  absorbs  moisture  and  carbon  dioxide. 
Almost  insoluble  in  water  ;  insoluble  in  alcohol.  Reaction 
faintly  alkaline.  Lead  oxide  is  only  valuable  for  its  prepa- 
rations. 

PREPARATION. 

Emplastrum  Plumbi.     Lead  Plaster.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
(Diachylon  Plaster.) 
Lead  oxide,  32;  olive  oil,  60;  water,  a  sufficient  quantity.     Basis  of 
other  preparations. 

Plumbi  Acetas.    Lead  Acetate.    Pb  {C^^JJ^)^  +  3  HgO. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym, — Sugar  of  lead,  E.;  sel  (sucre)  de  saturne,  Fr.; 
essigsaures  bleioxyd,  bleizucker,  G. 

Derivation.— 'H.esit  lead  oxide  in  acetic  acid  and  water. 

PbO  +  2  HC^HaO,  +  2  H,0  =  Pb(C,H30,),  -h  3H,0. 
Lead  acetate  crystallizes  on  cooling. 

Properties. — Colorless,  shining,  transparent,  monoclinic^ 
prisms  or  plates,  or  heavy,  white  crystalline  masses,  or 
granular  crystals,  having  a  faintly  acetous  odor  and  a 
sweetish,  astringent,  afterwards  metallic,  taste.  Efflorescent 
and  absorbing  carbon  dioxide  on  exposure  to  the  air. 
Soluble  in  2.3  parts  of  water  and  in  21  parts  of  alcohol. 
Reaction  slightly  acid. 

Incompatibles. — Hard  water,  alkalies,  mineral  acids  and 
salts,  potassium  iodide,  opium,  vegetable  astringents  and 
albuminous  liquids. 

Bose.—'EL.  &  C,  3i.  (4.);Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.xv.-xx.  {1.-1.3);  D., 
gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.12). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Made  from  lead  acetate  in  which  lead  exists  as  the  subacetate, 

PbaO  (CaHaOa)^. 

Liquor  Plumbi  Suhacetatis.    Solution  of  Lead  Subacetate. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Synonym. — Goulard's  extract,  acetum  plumbicum,  acetum  Satumi, 
plumbum  hydrico-aceticum  solutum,  subacetas  plumbicus  liquidus,  E.; 


162  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

liquor  plumbici  subacetici,  P.  G.;  sous-acetate  de  plomb  liquide,  extract 
de  Goulard  de  vinaigre,  plomb,  Fr. ;  bleiessig,  G. 

Composition. — An  aqueous  liquid,  containing  in  solution  about  25 
per  cent,  of  lead  subacetate  (approximately),  PbaO  (CaH30a)2. 

Liquor  Plumbi  Svhacetatis  Dilutus.  Diluted  Solution  of  Lead  Subacetate. 

(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Synonym. — Lead  Water.     Lead  Subacetate,  3;  water  to  make  100. 

Ceratum  Plumbi  Subacetatis.    Cerate  of  Lead  Subacetate.    (U.  S.  P.) 
Solution  of  lead  subacetate,  20;  camphor  cerate,  80. 

Plumbi  Carbonas.     Lead   Carbonate.     (PbC08)a  Pb(0H)2. 
(U.  S.&B.P.) 

Synonym. — White  lead,  E.;  ceruse,  Fr.;  bleiweiss,  G. 

Derivation. — Expose  lead  to  the  action  of  acetic  acid 
vapor  and  air  with  carbonic  dioxide. 

4  Pb  +  2  HCaH30,  +  2  O,  +  2  CO,  =  (PbCo3),  Pb 
(OH)a  +  Pb(C,H30,),. 

Properties. — A  heavy,  white,  opaque  powder,  or  a  pul- 
verulent mass,  without  odor  or  taste.  Permanent  in  air. 
Insoluble  in  water  or  alcohol.     Used  only  externally. 

Plumbi  Nitras.    Lead  Nitrate.    Pb  (NOg)^.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Salpetersaures  bleioxyd,  bleisalpeter,  G. 

Derivation. — Dissolve  lead  in  nitric  acid. 

Properties. — Colorless,  transparent,  octohedral  crystals, 
or  white,  nearly  opaque  crystals ;  without  odor,  and  having 
a  sweetish,  astringent,  and  afterwards  metallic  taste ; 
permanent  in  the  air ;  reaction  acid  ;  soluble  in  2  parts  of 
water ;  almost  insoluble  in  alcohol.  Only  used  externally 
in  1  per  cent,  solution  as  an  astringent  and  deodorant  in 
gangrenous  surfaces,  etc. 

Plumbi  Iodidum.    Lead  Iodide.    Pb  I2.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation — Treat  solution  of  lead  nitrate  with  that  of 
potassium  iodide. 


ACTION  OF  LEAD  SALTS  163 

Pb  (NO3),  +  2  KI  ==  Pbl,  +  2  KNO3.  Dry  the  pre- 
cipitate. 

Properties. — A  heavy,  bright  yellow  powder,  without 
odor  or  taste ;  permanent  in  the  air ;  soluble  in  about  2,000 
parts  of  water ;  very  slightly  soluble  in  alcohol ;  used  only 
externally. 

PREPARATION. 

Unguentum  Ptumhi  Todidi.     Ointment  of  Lead  Iodide.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Lead  iodide,  10;  oenzoinated  lard,  90.  Employed  externally  to 
absorb  glandular  swellings. 

ACTION  OF  LEAD  SALTS. 

External, — Lead  salts  act  like  other  astringents  in  con- 
tracting tissues  and  vessels,  and  in  coagulating  albumin  of 
exudations,  but  unlike  these  agents  generally,  they  are 
sedatives  and  not  irritants  locally. 

Internal. — Soluble  salts  of  lead  in  concentrated  solution 
— and  at  times  insoluble  salts— cause  gastro-enteritis  in 
large  doses.  Lead  salts  are  absorbed  in  medicinal  doses 
whether  taken  in  a  soluble  or  insoluble  state.  The  chemical 
form  of  the  lead  compound  at  the  time  of  absorption  is 
unknown.  Lead  is  deposited  in  the  tissues  and  very  slowly 
eliminated  in  the  urine  and  intestinal  mucus.  Lead  salts 
have  a  marked  astringent  action  on  the  entire  digestive 
canal  and  diminish  secretions  accordingly.  It  is  doubtful 
whether  lead  salts  remotely  contract  blood  vessels  after 
absorption.  There  are  other  agents — notably  ergot — which 
possess  much  greater  power  for  this  purpose. 

Toxicology. — Poisoning  not  infrequently  occurs  in  animals 
at  pasture,  from  eating  paint,  sheet  lead,  or  products  of  lead 
works.  The  drinking  water  may  be  contaminated  with  lead, 
especially  from  new  pipes,  or  lead  receptacles  in  which 
water  has  been  standing.  Hard  water  is  not  affected  by  lead 
pipes,  since  an  insoluble  crust  of  lead  phosphate  and  sulph- 
ate is  deposited  upon  the  interior  of  the  pipes.  There  is  an 
acute  and  chronic  form  of  poisoning.     The  first  is  caused  by 


164  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

single  large  doses  of  soluble  lead  salts,  and  is  characterized 
by  gastro-enteritis,  colic,  sometimes  convulsions,  coma, 
paralysis  and  death.  The  faeces  are  colored  black  with  lead 
sulphide  ;  the  vomitus  is  white  from  lead  chloride.  Three 
groups  of  symptoms  may  be  briefly  tabulated,  which  occur 
to  a  greater  or  less  degree  in  chronic  lead  poisoning : 

DIGESTIVE  SYMPTOMS. 

Lead  line  on  gums.  Thirst. 

Colic.  Abdomen  retracted,  or   "tucked 

Constipation.  up." 

Anorexia.  * 

NERVOUS  SYMPTOMS. 

Paralysis  of  tendons — extensors—  General  paralysis. 

of  extremities.  Wasting  of  muscles. 

Animals  stand  on  knees  before.  Coma. 

Animals  stand  on  toes  behind.  Delirium. 

Convulsions.  Amaurosis. 

GENERAL  SYMPTOMS. 

Dyspnoea.  CEdema. 

Pulse  accelerated.  .  General  debility. 

Emaciation.  Interstitial  nephritis. 

Anaemia. 

Animals  die  in  chronic  poisoning  from  paralysis  of  the 
respiratory  muscles,  or  in  convulsions.  The  lead  line  on  the 
margin  of  the  gums,  at  their  junction  with  the  teeth,  is  due 
to  sulphuretted  hydrogen  in  the  mouth,  acting  upon  the 
lead  deposited  in  the  gums,  and  forming  lead  sulphide. 
The  treatment  consists  in  removing  the  cause,  relieving  the 
symptoms  and  in  hastening  elimination.  Potassium  iodide 
eliminates  lead  in  a  soluble  form  into  the  bowels  and 
kidneys.  Magnesium  sulphate  converts  lead  into  an  insolu- 
ble sulphate  in  the  intestines  and  then  sweeps  out  the  salt. 
The  stomach  pump  or  emetics  should  be  employed  in  acute 
poisoning.  Alum  is  the  best  emetic.  This  treatment  should 
be  followed  by  the  administration  of  opium  and  Epsom  salts. 

Administration. — Lead  acetate  is  given  to  the  larger 
animals  in  solution  or  ball ;  to  the  smaller  patients  in  pill ; 
to  young  animals  in  solution  in  milk. 


SILVER  NITRATE  165 

Uses  External, — Lead  acetate  is  useful  in  the  treatment 
of  skin  diseases,  as  weeping  eczema  and  erythema,  and  in 
excoriations,  blistered  surfaces,  bruises,  strains,  and  burns. 
An  efficient  lotion  having  an  astringent  and  sedative  action 
in  such  conditions,  contains  :  laudanum,  1  part ;  Goulard's 
extract,  4  parts ;  and  oil,  glycerin  or  water,  16  parts.  The 
"  white  lotion  "  of  veterinary  medicine  is  made  by  adding  3 
drachms  each  of  lead  acetate  and  zinc  sulphate  to  a  pint  of 
water.  It  is  a  favorite  astringent,  sedative,  and  antiseptic 
application  for  strains  and  "scratches."  The  stronger 
solution  of  lead  subacetate  should  not  be  employed  exten- 
sively on  raw  surfaces  or  mucous  membranes  undiluted. 
The  diluted  solution  of  lead  subacetate  may  be  used  as  an 
injection  for  leucorrhcea.  Lead  acetate  should  be  diluted 
with  20  to  40  parts  of  vinegar  or  water.  Lead  acetate  ia 
not  suitable  for  collyria,  if  there  is  any  ulceration  of  the 
cornea,  because  a  permanent  film  may  be  deposited  and 
obscure  the  sight. 

Uses  Internal. — Lead  acetate  is  serviceable  in  the  treat- 
ment of  diarrhoea,  dysentery,  and  haemorrhage  from  the 
stomach  and  bowels.  It  is  frequently  prescribed  in  these 
diseases  with  opium. 

Argentum. 

(Silver  is  not  used  in  medicine  in  the  metallic  state.) 

Argenti  Nitras.     Silver  Nitrate.     AgNOj.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Dissolve  silver  in  nitric  acid  with  heat. 

3  Ag,  +  6  HNO3  =  6  AgNOs  +  3  H,.  Evaporate  and 
crystallize. 

Properties.  —  Colorless,  transparent,  tabular,  rhombic 
crystals,  becoming  gray,  or  grayish-black  on  exposure  to 
light  in  the  presence  of  organic  matter ;  without  odor,  but 
having  a  bitter,  caustic  and  strongly  metallic  taste  ;  reaction 
neutral ;  soluble  in  0.6  part  of  water  and  in  26  parts  of 
alcohol. 


166  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

Incompatibles.  —  Alkalies  and  their  carbonates,  acids 
(except  nitric  and  acetic),  chlorides,  potassium  iodide, 
astringent  infusions  and  solutions  of  arsenic. 

Dose,—R.  &  C,  gi-.v.-x.  (.3-.6);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.12); 
D.,  gr.|-i  (.008-.03). 

Argenti  Nitras  Dilutus.    Diluted  Silver  Nitrate.  (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym, — Argenti  et  potasii  nitras,  B.  P.;  mitigated 
caustic,  E.;  argentum  nitricum  crystallizatum,  P.  G.;  azotas 
(nitras)  argenticus,  azotate  d'argent,  nitre  lunaire,  Fr.;  salpe- 
tersaures  silberoxyd,  silbersalpeter,  G. 

Derivation. — Melt  silver  nitrate,  30,  with  potassium 
nitrate,  60,  in  a  crucible  at  as  low  a  temperature  as  possible. 
Mix  and  cast  into  suitable  moulds. 

Properties. — A  white,  hard  solid,  generally  in  the  form 
of  pencils  or  cones  of  a  finely  granular  fracture  ;  becoming 
gray  or  grayish-black  on  exposure  to  light  in  presence  of 
organic  matter ;  odorless,  having  a  caustic,  metallic  taste, 
and  neutral  reaction.  Each  of  its  constituents  soluble  in 
water  and  alcohol  to  the  extent  mentioned  under  Argenti 
Nitras  and  Potassii  Nitras.     Used  only  externally. 

Argenti  Nitras  Fusus.    Moulded  Silver  Nitrate.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Lunar  caustic,  lapis  infernalis,  azotas  (nitras) 
argenticus  fusus,  E.;  argentum  nitricum  fu8um,P.G.;  azotate 
d'argent  fondu,  pierre  infernale,  Fr.;  hoUenstein,  geschmol- 
zenes  salpetersaures  silberoxyd,  G. 

Derivation. — Melt  silver  nitrate,  100,  with  hydrochloric 
acid,  4,  at  as  low  a  temperature  as  possible.  Mix  and  pour 
into  suitable  moulds. 

Properties. — Practically  same  as  above.  Used  only 
externally.  Silver  oxide,  cyanide,  and  iodide  are  official, 
but  unimportant  in  veterinary  medicine. 

action  op  silver  nitrate. 
External. — Silver  nitrate  is  more  caustic  in  action  than 
any  of  the  lead,  copper  or  zinc  salts  (except  the  chloride). 


ACTION   OF   SILVER  NITRATE  167 

When  applied  externally  in  the  pure  state  to  a  mucous 
membrane,  or  a  raw  surface,  it  forms  a  white  coating  of 
coagulated  albumin.  This  coating  limits  the  further  action 
of  the  salt,  so  that  lunar  caustic  is  always  superficial  and 
localized  in  its  effect.  Silver  nitrate  is  the  caustic  in  most 
common  use,  since  it  produces  a  more  healthy  condition  in 
a  granulating  wound  after  its  application  and  separation  of 
the  eschar.  In  acting  thus  more  favorably  than  other  agents 
of  its  kind,  it  may  be  said  to  possess  a  local  alterative  effect. 
In  dilution,  silver  nitrate  is  stimulant,  astringent,  antiseptic 
and  caustic,  according  to  its  strength. 

Internal— Si\\GT  nitrate  is  probably  precipitated  to  a 
considerable  extent  by  the  hydrochloric  acid  of  the  gastric 
juice,  as  the  chloride.  Some  of  it  is  absorbed,  however, 
possibly  in  combination  with  albumin  and  peptones.  Silver 
is  deposited  in  the  tissues  in  the  form  of  the  oxide,  causing 
dark  staining  of  the  skin  in  man.  These  stains,  occurring 
when  silver  nitrate  comes  in  direct  contact  with  the  skin, 
can  be  removed  by  a  solution  containing  potassium  cyanide, 
2J  drachms  ;  iodine,  15  grains ;  and  water,  3  ounces.  Large 
doses  of  silver  nitrate  cause  gastio-enteritis  with  nervous 
symptoms  —  paralysis  and  convulsions  —  and  death  from 
depression  of  the  respiratory  centres.  Common  salt  is  the 
antidote,  both  externally  and  internally,  forming  the  in- 
soluble chloride.  In  addition  to  salt,  opium  and  demulcents 
should  be  exhibited  in  acute  poisoning.  Silver  nitrate  in 
medicinal  doses  has  probably  a  local  stimulating,  astrin- 
gent and  alterative  actioa  on  the  mucous  membrane  of 
the  stomach  ;  to  a  less  degree  on  the  bowels.  Elimination 
occurs  in  part  through  the  agency  of  the  liver  and  in- 
testines. A  chronic  form  of  poisoning  by  silver  nitrate 
(argyrism),  is  seen  in  man,  following  its  continued  use, 
and  is  accompanied  by  pigmentation  of  the  skin,  maras- 
mus, chronic  indigestion,  with  wasting  of  the  testes  and 
mammary  glands.  A  similar  condition  has  been  produced 
in  animals,  associated  with  anorexia,  weakness,  anaemia  and 
emaciation.  . 


168  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Uses  External. — An  aqueous  solution  (gr.iii.  to  3  i.)  is  most 
valuable  in  the  treatment  of  catarrhal  conjunctivitis,  while  a 
stronger  preparation  (gr.x.  to  §  i.)  is  employed  for  purulent 
conjunctivitis,  as  a  stimulant,  astringent  and  antiseptic 
collyrium.  A  solution  of  common  salt  can  be  used  to  relieve 
the  irritation  caused  by  the  latter  solution.  Lunar  caustic 
is  applied  in  pencil  form  to  ulcerated  surfaces.  When  these 
surfaces  are  touched  lightly  the  caustic  stimulates  sluggish 
granulations;  when  more  heavily,  it  destroys  exuberant 
granulations.  In  2  to  4  per  cent,  solution,  silver  nitrate  is 
caustic  to  mucous  membranes ;  in  ^  per  cent,  solution  it  is 
stimulant  and  astringent  to  mucous  membranes. 

Boils  may  be  aborted  by  painting  tbem  with  a  saturated 
solution  of  silver  nitrate.  Pruritus  ani,  or  vulvae,  is  relieved 
by  painting  the  parts  several  times  daily  with  a  1-per-cent. 
solution.  A  solution  (gr.iii.  to  3  i.)  may  be  used  in  the  form 
of  spray  in  the  treatment  of  pharyngitis  and  laryngitis  in 
the  dog. 

Fissures  in  the  skin  occurring  in  sore  teats  of  cows  are 
cured  by  the  application  of  fused  silver  nitrate. 

Uses  Internal. — The  crystals  should  only  be  employed 
internally,  to  insure  purity.  Silver  nitrate  is  not  of  much 
value  for  internal  use  except  in  the  digestive  tract.  Pills 
containing  the  silver  salt  are  sometimes  given  to  dogs  with 
diarrhoea  and  ulcer  of  the  stomach.  Dy.^entery  may  be 
treated  by  enemata  containing  12  grains  of  silver  nitrate  to 
the  ounce  of  water.  If  this  treatment  is  followed  by  much 
irritation,  injections  of  salt  and  water  should  be  used 
afterwards. 

Protargol.     (Non-official.) 

Protargol  was  first  introduced  into  medicine  by  Prof. 
Neisser,  in  1897,  as  a  local  remedy  for  gonorrhoea  in  man. 
It  is  a  fine,  yellowish-brown,  soluble  powder,  a  combination 
of  a  protein  substance  with  silver  ;  odorless,  and  possessing 
a  strong  metallic  taste. 


ACTION   OF  PROTARaOL  169 

Protargol  has  recently  superseded  silver  nitrate  (which 
contains  63.5  per  cent,  of  silver)  to  a  considerable  extent  in 
medicine  because,  containing  less  silver  (8.3  per  cent.), 
protargol  is  decidedly  less  irritating,  is  not  precipitated  by 
albumin  or  solutions  of  sodium  chloride,  does  not  discolor 
the  skin  and  more  than  equals  silver  nitrate  in  certainty 
and  efficiency  of  action. 

Protargol  is  particularly  applicable  in  veterinary  medi- 
cine as  a  bland  but  powerfully  penetrating  antiseptic  and 
mild  astringent  in  the  treatment  of  inflammatory  conditions 
of  the  conjunctival  membranes.  The  drug  does  not  cause 
the  pain,  redness,  swelling  and  lachrymation  which  follow 
the  use  of  silver  nitrate ;  nor  does  it  lead  to  the  formation 
of  fibrinous  coagula  and  the  production  of  false  membranes 
and  opacities  of  the  cornea  seen  after  the  application  of 
silver  nitrate. 

A  10-per-cent.  solution  of  protargol  induces  less  flushing 
of  the  eye  and  discomfort  than  a  l-[)er-cent.  solution  of 
silver  nitrate,  and  the  irritation  of  a  2  or  4  per  cent, 
solution  is  not,  as  a  rule,  more  than  would  be  produced 
by  a  one-half  grain  to  the  ounce  solution  of  zinc  sulphate 
(Cheney). 

Protargol  is  indicated  in  acute  catarrhal  and  purulent 
conjunctivitis  in  from  one-half  to  10  per  cent,  aqueous  solu- 
tions ;  usually  in  one-half  per  cent,  solution  in  the  catarrhal 
form,  two  or  three  times  daily,  applied  with  a  camel's  hair 
brush  or  by  instillation ;  and  in  the  purulent  variety,  in  2  or 
4  per  cent,  solution  with  a  pledget  of  absorbent  cotton  on  a 
probe,  or  with  a  camel's  hair  brush,  in  conjunction  with 
frequent  boric  acid  irrigations.  This  new  silver  combina- 
tion has  also  been  used  with  reported  success  (and  the  use 
might  apply  to  canine  practice)  in  human  medicine  as  a 
non-irritating  astringent  and  antiseptic  agent  internally  in 
.5  gm.  doses,  twice  or  thrice  daily,  in  pills,  for  the  relief  of 
haemorrhages  and  ulcerations  of  the  alimentary  canal,  in 
diarrhoea  and  in  purulent  inflammation  of  the  genito-urinary 
tract.  - 


170  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Zincum. 

(Zinc  is  not  used  in  Medicine  in  the  metallic  state.) 

ZiNCi  Chloridum.     Zinc  Chloride.     ZnCl^.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Dissolve  zinc  in  hydrochloric  acid  by  boil- 
ing. The  solution  contains  the  zinc  chloride  with  chlorides 
of  iron  and  lead  as  impurities.  These  are  precipitated  by 
adding  first  nitric  acid  then  zinc  carbonate.  Filter  and 
finally  evaporate.     Zn,  +  4  HCl  =  2  Zn  CI,  +  2  H,. 

Properties. — A  white,  granular  powder,  or  porcelain- 
like masses,  irregular  or  moulded  into  pencils  ;  odorless ;  of 
such  intensely  caustic  properties  as  to  make  tasting  danger- 
ous unless  the  salt  be  dissolved  in  much  water,  when  it  has 
an  astringent,  metallic  taste  ;  very  deliquescent ;  reaction 
acid ;  soluble  in  about  0.3  part  of  water ;  very  soluble  in 
alcohol. 

Liquor  Zinci  Chloridi.     Solution  of  Zinc  Chloride. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Made  as  above  with  the  addition  of  water. 
It  contains  about  50  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  zinc  chloride. 

Properties. — A  clear,  colorless  liquid,  odorless,  having  a 
very  astringent,  sweetish  taste  and  an  acid  reaction.  Spec. 
gr.  about  1,535  at  15°  C.  (59°  R). 

Toxicology. — Zinc  chloride  is  a  powerful  irritant  if  swal- 
lowed in  any  degree  of  concentration,  and  will,  therefore, 
produce  gastro-enteritis.  Emetics  or  the  stomach  pump 
should  be  used,  followed  by  demulcents  and  sodium  bicar- 
bonate. 

Uses. — Zinc  chloride  is  employed  in  a  paste  made  into 
small  pieces  with  flour ;  or  on  lint  soaked  in  a  saturated 
solution,  dried,  and  introduced  under  the  skin  about  the 
base  of  tumors  to  cause  their  destruction  by  sloughing.  It 
is  employed  in  the  form  of  pencils  on  unhealthy,  granulating 
surfaces,  as  in   "  foot  rot,"  and  injected  in  strong  solution 


ZINC   SULPHATE  171 

into  fistulous  tracts  to  destroy  their  walls.     It  is  not  used 
internally. 

ZiNCi  Sulphas.     Zinc  Sulphate.     ZnSo^  4-  7  H2O. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Prepared  by  dissolving  zinc  in  sulphuric 
acid.     Zn,  +  2  H,SO,  =  2  ZnSO,  +  2  H,. 

Iron  and  tin  exist  as  impurities,  and  are  removed  by 
chlorine  solution  and  zinc  carbonate. 

Properties.  —  Colorless,  transparent,  rhombic  crystals, 
without  odor,  and  having  an  astringent,  metallic  taste. 
Efflorescent  in  dry  air;  reaction  acid  ;  soluble  in  0.6  part  of 
water,  in  3  parts  of  glycerin ;  insoluble  in  alcohol. 

Incompatihles. — Lead  acetate,  silver  nitrate,  lime  water, 
alkalies  and  carbonates,  vegetable  decoctions  or  infusions, 
and  milk. 

Dose.—H.  k  C,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.x.-xx.  (.6-1.3); 
D.,  gr.ii.-iii.  (.12.2);  Emetic,  D.,  gr.x.-xv.  (.6-1.). 

Zmci  Caebonas  Pilecipitatus.    Precipitated  Zinc  Carbonate. 

(U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Zinci  carbonas,  B.  P.;  precipitated  zinc  car- 
bonate, kohlensaures  zinkoxyd,  G. 

Derivation. — Solutions  of  nearly  equal  weight  of  sodium 
carbonate  and  zinc  sulphate  are  boiled  together ;  dry  pre- 
cipitate. S  ZnSO,  +  8  Na,C03  +  2  H,0  =  2  (Zn  C03)3  Zn 
(0H)2  ?  (hydrated  basic  zinc  carbonate)  +  8  NagSO^  +  2 
CO2.  This  salt  is  in  reality  a  mixture  of  zinc  carbonate  and 
oxide,  in  varying  proportions,  with  water  of  crystallization. 

Properties. — An  impalpable  white  powder,  of  somewhat 
variable  chemical  composition,  without  odor  or  taste  ;  insol- 
uble in  water  or  alcohol. 

ZiNCi  OxiDUM.     Zinc  Oxide.     Zn  O.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.)       ^ 

Derivation. — Heat  the  carbonate  to  redness. 

2  (Zn  C03)3  Zq(0H)2  =  8  ZnO  +  2  H^O  +  6  CO^. 


172  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Properties, — An  amorphous,  white  powder,  without  odor 
or  taste.  It  gradually  absorbs  carbon  dioxide  from  the  air. 
Insoluble  in  water  or  alcohol. 

Do8e,—B,  &  C,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8);  D.,  gr.v.-x.  (.3-.6). 

PREPARATION. 

Uugventum  Zinci  Oxidi.     Ointment  of  Zinc  Oxide.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Zinc  oxide,  200;  benzoinated  lard,  800.     (U.  S.  P.) 

ZiNOi  AcETAS.     Zinc  Acetate.     Zn  (C2H302)j  +  2  H2O. 
(U.  a  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Dissolve  zinc  oxide  in  diluted  acetic  acid 
and  boil. 

ZnO  +  2  HC2H3O2  =  Zn  {GMzO,\  +  H^O.  Evaporate 
and  crystallize. 

Properties. — Soft,  white,  six-sided  monoclinic  plates,  of 
a  pearly  lustre,  having  a  faintly  acetous  odor,  and  an  astrin- 
gent metallic  taste.  Exposed  to  the  air  the  salt  gradually 
effloresces  and  loses  some  of  its  acid ;  reaction  acid ;  soluble 
in  2.7  parts  of  water  and  in  36  parts  of  alcohol. 

Incompatihles. — Same  as  sulphate. 

Z>ose. —^^Same  as  sulphate. 

ACTION   OF  THE  ZINC   SALTS. 

External. — The  salts  of  zinc  (except  the  chloride)  have 
an  astringent  action  on  raw  surfaces  and  mucous  membranes, 
notably  the  sulphate  and  acetate.  Absorption  is  not  followed 
by  poisoning.  They  resemble  other  astringents,  but  do  not 
possess  the  sedative  qualities  of  the  lead  salts,  nor  the  local 
alterative  properties  of  silver  nitrate. 

Internal. — In  the  alimentary  tract  very  large  doses  of 
tlie  sulphate  or  acetate  may  induce  gastro-enteritis,  which 
is  to  be  treated  with  demulcents  and  alkaline  carbonates  in 
order  to  form  insoluble  compounds.  Vomiting  will  relieve 
carnivora  ;  otherwise  the  stomach  pump  must  be  resorted  to. 

Zinc  salts  apparently  pioduce  no  remote  effects  upon 
the  body  in   medicinal  doses,   although  in    man  chronic 


USES   OF  ZINC   SALTS  173 

poisoning  is  said  to  occur  among  workers  in  zinc.  The 
condition  is  manifested  by  digestive  disturbances,  nervous 
symptoms  and  paralysis.  In  therapeutic  doses  the  zinc 
salts  are  astringent,  diminishing  secretion  in  the  digestive 
tract. 

USES   OF  ZINC   SALTS. 

External. — Zinc  sulphate  is  in  common  use  as  an  astrin- 
gent collyrium  for  subacute  conjunctivitis  (gr.ss.-ii.  to  3  i.). 
It  is  also  employed  in  the  treatment  of  canker  of  the  ear 
in  dogs  (gr.x.  to  5  i')»  ^^  ^^  "  white  lotion "  (see  Plumbi 
Acetas),  in  this  affection. 

The  salt  is  likewise  serviceable  as  a  stimulant  and 
■astringent  solution  (gr.ii.-v.  to  ^  i-)  iii  moist  eczema,  ulcers, 
atonic  inflammations  of  mucous  membranes  and  leucorrhoea. 

Zinc  carbonate  is  a  much  milder  astringent  than  zinc 
sulphate  or  acetate.  The  impure  carbonate  (calamine)  is  an 
ingredient  of  the  popular  astringent  and  antiseptic,  "  pink 
ointment"  of  veterinary  medicine  used  for  the  cure  of 
^*  scratches  "  in  horses. 

I^  Zinci  carbonatis  (impure) §  ii. 

Alumenis §  iss. 

Calcii  carb.  praecip 5  x. 

Creasoti 

Cerae  flavi aa^iss. 

Adipis §xv. 

M. 

S.     External  use. 

The  lard  and  wax  are  first  melted  together  and  then  the 
other  ingredients  are  stirred  in.  Zinc  oxide  is  used  exter- 
nally in  the  form  of  a  dusting  powder,  ointment  or  paste. 
In  eczema,  erythema  and  scratches,  the  zinc  oxide  ointment  is 
valuable  and  can  be  combined  with  carbolic  acid  (gr.x.  to  5  i-) 
to  great  advantage,  when  itching  is  a  prominent  symptom. 
Still  better  than  zinc  ointment  is  a  paste  containing  zinc 
oxide,  2  parts ;  starch  and  vaseline,  each  3  parts.  Zinc 
acetate  can  be  used  in  all  cases  as  a  substitute  for  zinc 
sulphate. 


174  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Interned. — Zinc  sulphate  is  the  best  and  most  prompt 
emetic  for  dogs  in  many  conditions,  as  poisoning.  It  should 
be  given  in  tepid  water.  Zinc  oxide  is  occasionally  pre- 
scribed in  diarrhoea,  and  empirically  as  a  tonic  and  anti- 
spasmodic in  chorea  and  epilepsy.  It  has  also  been 
recommended  for  its  remote  astringent  action,  to  prevent 
excessive  sweating  and  profuse  bronchial  secretion.  Zinc 
oxide  may  be  given  in  powder,  pill,  dr  dissolved  in  alkaline 
solutions. 

Cuprum. 

(Copper  is  not  used  in  tJie  metallic  state  in  Medicine.) 

CuPRi  Sulphas.    Copper  Sulphate.    Cu  So^  +  5  B.fi. 
(U.S.&B.P.) 

Synonym.— Cupric  sulphate,  blue  vitriol,  blue  stone, 
sulfas  cupricus,  cuprum  vitriolatum,  E.;  cuprum  sulfuricum 
purum,  P.  G.;  vitriol  bleu,  sulfate  de  Cuivre,  Fr.;  kupfer vit- 
riol, blauer-vitriol,  schwefelsaures  kupfer  (kupferoxyd),  G. 

Derivation. — Boil  metallic  copper  and  sulphuric  acid 
together.  CU,  +  2  H,  SO,  =  2  CUSO,  +  2  H,.  Dissolve 
product  in  hot  water  and  crystallize. 

Properties. — Large,  transparent,  deep  blue,  triclinic 
crystals;  odorless,  of  a  nauseous,  metallic  taste;  slowly 
efflorescent  in  dry  air ;  soluble  in  2.6  parts  of  water  ;  almost 
insoluble  in  alcohol ;  reaction  acid. 

Incompatihles. — Mineral  salts  (except  sulphates),  alkalies 
and  their  carbonates,  iodides,  lime  water  and  vegetable 
astringents. 

i>ose.— H.  &  C,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.xx.-xl. 
(1.3-2.6);  D.,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.12);  Emetic,  D.,  gr.vi.-xx.  (.36-1.3). 

ACTION  OF  COPPER  SULPHATE. 

External. — Copper  sulphate  is  stimulant,  astringent  or 
caustic  to  mucous  membranes  or  raw  surfaces,  according  to 
the  strength  applied. 


ACTION  OF  COPPER  SULPHATE  175 

Internal, — In  poisonous  doses  copper  sulphate"  causes 
salivation,  vomiting,  gastro-enteritis,  and  nervous  symptoms 
(convulsions,  paralysis  and  delirium),  and  finally,  respiratory 
arrest.  The  blood  corpuscles  are  broken  down,  and  there 
is  fatty  degeneration  of  the  liver  and  hsemoglobimiria.  The 
treatment  consists  in  emptying  the  stomach  in  animals 
which  cannot,  or  do  not,  vomit,  and  the  use  of  yellow  prus- 
siate  of  potash,  together  with  demulcents  and  opium.  Large 
doses  are  emetic  to  the  dog,  but  should  not  be  used  except 
in  phos):)horus  poisoning.  Smaller  doses  are  astringent  in 
the  digestive  tract. 

Uses  external. — Copper  sulphate  is  employed  in  the 
solid,  crystalline  form  in  granular  conjunctivitis,  by  rubbing 
the  stick  over  the  affected  surfaces  of  the  lids. 

A  solution  (gr.ss.-ii.  to  3  i.)  is  dropped  into  the  eye  for 
simple  conjunctivitis.  Copper  sulphate  is  similar  in  action 
to  zinc  sulphate,  but  more  powerful.  On  ulcerated  and 
granular  surfaces  it  is  used  as  a  stimulant  and  astringent  in 
solution. 

Uses  internal. — Copper  sulphate  is  prescribed  for  its 
local  effect  with  opium  in  diarrhoea,  and  injected  into  the 
bowel  in  2  per  cent,  solution  in  ulcerated  conditions  of  the 
rectum.  Copper  sulphate  is  not  a  safe  emetic,  as  it  may 
cause  poisoning  if  it  is  not  quickly  expelled.  The  sulphate 
of  copper  is  a  tonic  remedy  in  anaemia  and  nervous  condi- 
tions. It  is  thought  to  resemble  arsenic  and  to  stimulate 
locally  the  tissues,  heart  and  blood  vessels  ;  thus  increasing 
the  number  of  corpuscles,  firmness  of  flesh  and  amount  of 
fat.  Copper  sulphate  is  often  used  as  a  tonic  in  the  treat- 
ment of  lumbricoid  worms  and  ozoena,  combined  with  iron. 
It  is  recomended  in  purpura,  and  is  given  to  dogs  in  the 
form  of  arsenite  of  copper  for  chorea  and  epilepsy.  Glanders 
and  farcy  are  treated  with  copper  sulphate,  but  these  diseases 
are  rarely  curable  and  are  too  dangerous  to  the  community 
to  warrant  drug  treatment. 


176  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Bismuthum. 

{Bismuth  is  not  employed  inedicinolly  in  the  metallic  state.) 

BiSMUTHi  SuBCARBONAS.     Bismuth  Subcarbonate.    (BiO)2  Co, 
-f  H,0?    (U.S.  P.) 

Synonym.^— 'Bismuthi  carbonas,  B.  P. 

Dtrlvation  — Made  by  dissolving  pure  metallic  bismuth 
in  diluted  nitric  acid,  precipitating  with  ammonia  water, 
and  redissolving  in  nitric  acid.  This  ;:olution  is  treated  with 
ammonium  carbonate,  or  a  solution  of  sodium  carbonate. 

2  Bi  (NOJa  +  3  Na,  CO3  -h  H,0  =  (BiO),  CO,  +  H,0 
+  2  CO2  4-  6  NaNOg.  The  precipitated  bismuth  subcarbo- 
nate is  filtered  and  washed. 

Properties. — A  white,  or  pale  yellowish-white  powder, 
of  somewhat  varying  chemical  composition ;  odorless  and 
tasteless,  and  permanent  in  the  air.  Insoluble  in  water  or 
alcohol,  but  completely  soluble  in  nitric  or  hydrochloric 
acid,  with  copious  efflorescence. 

Dose.—K.,  3ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  D.,  gr.x.-xxx.  (.6-2.). 

BiSMUTHi  SuBNiTRAS.  Bismuth  Subnitrate.  BiO  NO3  4-  HgO  ? 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Bismuthum  subnitricum,  P.  G.;  bismuthum 
hydriconitricum,  magisterium  bismuthi,  subazotas  (s.  sub- 
nitras)  bismuthicus,  sous-azotate  de  bismuth,  Fr.;  basisches 
salpetersaures  bismuthoxyd,  G. 

Derivation. — Dissolve  pure  me'^allic  bismuth  in  diluted 
nitric  acid.  First  reaction— Bi^  +  6  HNO3  =  2  Bi  (NO3), 
4-  3  H^.  Final  reaction— Bi  (NOg),  +  RO  =  BiONOg  -f  2 
HNO3.  Evaporate;  add  water;  wash  and  dry  precipitated 
bismuth  subnitrate. 

Properties. — A  heavy,  white  powder  of  somewhat  vary- 
ing chemical  composition ;  odorless  and  almost  tasteless, 
and  permanent  in  the  air.     Almost  insoluble  in  water  and 


BISMUTH    SALICYLATE  177 

insoluble  in  alcohol,  but  readily  soluble  in  nitric  or  hydro- 
chloric acid. 

Dose. — Same  as  subcarbonate. 

BiSMUTHi  Salicylas.     Bismuth  Salicylate.     (Non-official.) 

Properties. — White,   soft  powder;   insoluble  in  water, 
ether,  alcohol  or  chloroform  ;  soluble  in  acids. 
Dose. — D.,  gr.v.-x.  (.3-.6). 

Bismuth  Subgallate.     (Non-official.) 

Synonym. — Dermatol. 

Properties. — A  fine,  yellow  powder;  permanent  in  the 
air  and  odorless ;  used  externally  as  a  substitute  for  iodo- 
form ;  it  is  antiseptic  and  astringent ;  occasionally  given 
internally. 

ACTION  OF  bismuth  SUBNITRATE  AND  SUBCARBONATE. 

External. — The  insoluble  salts  of  bismuth  have  a  pro- 
tecting, sedative,  astringent  and  antiseptic  action  on  raw 
surfaces.  If  applied  over  very  extensive  areas  for  a  consid- 
erable length  of  time,  they  may  cause  absorption  and 
poisoning.     Bismuth  has  no  action  on  the  unbroken  skin. 

Internal. — The  salts  of  bismuth  are  absorbed  and  elim- 
inated to  some  extent.  When  administered  continuously  in 
enormous  doses,  they  have  produced  poisoning  characterized 
by  stomatitis,  colic,  diarrhoea,  general  weakness,  black  dis- 
colorations  of  the  mucous  membrane,  beginning  in  the 
mouth,  sometimes  nephritis,  and  death  from  exhaustion. 
An  odor  of  gallic  appears  in  the  breath  after  the  continuous 
exhibition  ot  bismuth,  owing  to  traces  of  tellurium  con- 
tained in  the  bismuth. 

Medicinally  used,  the  salts  of  bismuth  are  absolutely 
harmless,  although  formerly  poisoning  was  not  infrequent 
from  their  contamination  with  arsenic.  The  tongue  and 
faeces  are  stained  black  by  bismuth  salts,  which  are  trans- 
formed into  the  sulphide.  Bismuth,  locally  and  mechan- 
ically, by  reason  of  its  weight  and  insolubility,  protects  and 


178  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

coats  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  digestive  tract,  and  thus 
exerts  a  sedative,  astringent  and  antiseptic  action  through- 
out the  canal.  Bismuth  must,  therefore,  be  given,  to  be 
effective,  in  large  and  frequent  doses,  and  when  the  stomach 
is  empty.  For  this  reason  the  drug  is  not  of  much  value  in 
the  treatment  of  the  horse,  as  a  sufl&cient  quantity  cannot 
be  used  economically. 

USES  OF  BISMUTH   SUBNTTRATE  AND   8UBCARB0NATE. 

^^emoZ.— Bismuth  is  a  very  good  dusting  powder  on 
sores,  and  for  moist  skin  diseases  and  ulcerated  surfaces. 
It  may  be  combined  with  zinc  oxide  and  salol,  or  used  in 
the  form  of  an  ointment  in  the  proportion  of  1  to  4.  It  may 
be  employed  to  advantage  in  coryza  and  ozena,  by  insuffla- 
tion into  the  nostrils. 

Internal, — Bismuth  is  one  of  the  best  agents  to  relieve 
vomiting  in  dogs,  owing  to  the  soothing  and  sedative  effect 
upon  inflamed  mucous  membranes.  It  may  be  given  alone 
upon  the  tongue  or  in  combination  with  oxalate  of  cerium. 
It  is  also  a  very  efficient  agent  in  diarrhoea  in  the  dog,  being 
astringent,  sedative  and  antiseptic.  Its  use  should  be 
preceded  by  the  administration  of  oil  or  calomel,  in  diarrhoea. 
Bismuth  is  given  for  diarrhoea  in  powder  with  salol ;  or  in 
suspension  with  gum  arable  and  water,  with  one  drop  of 
carbolic  acid  to  each  dose  of  bismuth  ;  or  better,  in  capsules, 
dispensing  one  grain  of  carbolic  acid  and  five  grains  of 
bismuth.  The  sedative  effect  upon  the  stomach  is  increased 
by  giving  the  subcarbonate  of  bismuth  with  bicarbonate  of 
sodium,  while  the  sedative  effect  upon  the  bowels  is 
enhanced  by  combining  morphine  with  bismuth  subnitrate. 
It  is  generally  immaterial  whether  the  subnitrate  or  sub- 
carbonate  of  bismuth  be  selected  in  any  given  case. 
Bismuth  salicylate  is  more  powerful  as  an  antiseptic  than 
the  other  salts.  It  is  useful  in  diarrhoe;i,  intestinal  fer- 
mentation and  indigestion  of  dogs.  The  drug  should  be 
given  in  capsules. 


FERRUM  179 

SECTION  V. 
Ferrum. 

Metallic  iron  is  official  in  the  form  of  fine,  bright  and 
non-elastic  wire,  from  which  are  made  iron  preparations  and 
reduced  iron. 

Ferrum  Keductum.     Eeduced  Iron.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Iron  by  hydrogen,  Qiievenne's  iron,  ferrum 
hydrogenio  reductum,  ferrum  ope  hydrogenii  paratnm,  E.; 
ferrum  redactum,  P.  G.;  fer  reduit  par  I'hydrogene,  Fr.; 
reducirtes  eisen,  G. 

Derivation. — Hydrogen  gas  is  passed  over  freshly  made 
and  carefully  washed  ferric  oxide  in  a  hot  and  closed  tube. 
Fe,03  +  a  H,  =  Fe,  +  3  H,0. 

Properties.—  A  very  fine  grayish-black,  lustreless  powder, 
without  odor  or  taste ;  permanent  in  dry  air ;  insoluble  in 
water  or  alcohol. 

Dose.—R..  3i.-ii(4.-8.);  C,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  Sh.  <fe.  Sw., 
gr.xx.-xxx.  (1.3-2.);  D.,  gr.i.-v.  (.06-.3). 

Ferri  Sulphas.     Ferrous  Sulphate.     Fe  So^  +  7  HjO. 
(U.  S.  k  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Copperas,  green  vitriol,  vitriolum  martis 
purum,  sulfas  ferrosus,  ferrum  vitriolatum  purum,  E.;  ferrum 
sulphuricum  purum,  P.  G.;  sulfate  de  fer,  sulfate  ferreux, 
Fr.;  schwefelsaures  eisenoxydul,  G. 

Derivation. — Iron  wire  is  dissolved  by  boiling  in  diluted 
sulphuric  acid.     Fe,  +  2  H,SO,  =  2  Fe  SO,  +  2  H,. 

Properties.  —  Large,  pale,  blueish-green,  monoclinic 
prisms,  without  odor,  and  having  a  saline,  styptic  taste; 
efflorescent  in  dry  air.  On  exposure  to  moist  air  the  crystals 
rapidly  absorb  oxygen  and  become  coated  with  brownish- 
yellow,  basic  ferric  sulphate ;  soluble  in  1.8  parts  of  water ; 
insoluble  in  alcohol. 


180  INORGA.NIG  AGENTS 

Z>ose.— H.,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  C,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  Sh.  &  Sw., 
gr.xx.-xxx.  (1.3-2.);  D.,  gr.i.-v.  (.06-.3). 

Ferri  Sulphas  Exsiccatds.     Dried  Ferrous  Sulphate. 
2  FeSO,  +  3  H,0.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Ferrum  sulfuricum  siccum,P.  G.;  sulfate  de 
fer  desseche,  Fr.;  entwasserte  schwefelsaures  eisenoxydul,  G. 

Derivation. — Allow  ferrous  sulphate,  100,  to  effloresce  at 
a  temperature  of  104^^  F.  Then  heat  on  a  water  bath  till 
the  product  weighs  65. 

Properties. — A  grayish-white  powder,  soluble  in  water. 

Dose. — Same  as  sulphate. 

Ferri  Sulphas  Granulatus.    Granulated  Ferrous  Sulphate. 
Fe,SO,  +  7  H,0.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Dissolve  ferrous  sulphate,  100,  in  distilled 
water,  100,  and  add  sulphuric  acid,  5.  Evaporate  till  the 
product  weighs  150.     Pour  alcohol,  25,  upon  it  and  dry. 

Properties. — Pale,  bluish-green,  crystalline  powder. 

Dose. — Same  as  sulphate. 

Ferri  Carbonas  Saccharatus.     Saccharated  Ferrous  Carbo- 
nate.    (U.  S,  <fe  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Ferrum  carbonicum  saccharatum,  P.  G.; 
carbonas  ferrosus  saccharatus,  saccharure  de  proto-carbon- 
ate  de  fer,  Fr.;  ziickerhaltiges  kohlensaures  eisen,  G. 

Derivation. — Ferrous  sulphate,  50  ;  sodium  bicarbonate, 
35  ;  sugar  and  distilled  water.  Made  by  solution,  precipita- 
tion and  washing. 

Properties.  —  Greenish-brown  powder,  without  odor ; 
sweetish  taste ;  becomes  oxidized  on  exposure  to  the  air. 

Dose. — Twice  that  of  iron  sulphate. 

Mass  A  Ferri  Carbonatis.     Mass  of  Ferrous  Carbonate. 
(U.  S.  P.) 
Dose.— D.,  gr.i.-v.  (.06.3)  in  pill. 


SYRUP   OF  FERROUS   IODIDE  181 

Syrupus  Ferri  Iodidi.     Syrnp  of  Ferrous  Iodide. 
(U.  S.  &B.  P.) 

Contains  10  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  ferrous  iodide 
(Fel,).     U.S. 

Properties. — Transparent,  pale  green  liquid  ;  sweet,  fer- 
ruginous taste. 

Dose.—D.,  TTLv.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

Ferri  Chloridum.     Ferric  Chloride.     FeaClg  +  12  H^O. 

(U.S.  P.) 

Synonym.  —  Ferrum  sesquichloratum,  P.  G. ;  ferrum 
muriatum  oxydatum,  chloridum  seu  chloruretum  ferricum, 
ferri  perchloridum,  sesquichloride  (perchloride)  of  iron,  E.; 
perchlorure  de  fer,  chlorure  ferrique,  Fr. ;  eisenchlprid,  G. 

Derivation. — Iron,  15  gm.;  hydrochloric  acid,  nitric  acid 
and  water,  of  each  a  sufficient  quantity.  Made  by  solution 
with  heat. 

Properties. — Orange  yellow,  crystalline  pieces,  odorless, 
or  having  a  faint  odor  of  hydrochloric  acid,  and  a  strong 
styptic  taste ;  deliquescent ;  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol ; 
reaction  acid  ;  not  used  internally. 

Liquor  Ferri  Chloridi.     Solution  of  Ferric  Chloride. 
(U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Liq.  ferri  perchloridi,  B.  P.  An  aqueous 
solution  of  ferric  chloride  (Foa  Clg)  containing  about  37.8 
per  cent,  of  the  anhydrous  salt ;  62.9  per  cent,  of  the  crys- 
tallized salt,  or  about  13  per  cent,  of  metallic  iron. 

Derivation. — Dissolve  iron  wire,  150,  in  hydrochloric 
acid,  870  ;  nitric  acid  and  water  to  make  1  000.     U.  S.  P. 

First  reaction.— Fe,  +  4  HCl  =  2  Fe  CI,  +  2  H,. 

Second  reaction.— 6  FeCl,  +  6  HCl  +  2  HNO3  =  3  Fe, 
Cle  +  2  NO  +  4  H,0. 

Properties. — A  reddish-brown  liquid,  having  a  faint  odor 
of  hydrochloric  acid ;  an  acid,  strongly  styptic  taste  and  an 
acid  reaction. 


182  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Dosc—K.  &  C,  3ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  H^x-xx. 
(6.-1.3);  D.,  Ulii.-x.  (.12-.6). 

PREPARATIONS. 

.Tinctura  Ferri  Chloridi.    Tincture  of  Ferric  Chloride.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Solution  of  ferric  chloride,  250;  alcohol  to  make  1,000. 

Dose.— H.  &C.,  §i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &Sw.,  mxx.-xxx.  (1.3-2.);  D., 
iTiv.-3i.  (.3-4.) 

Contains  13.6  per  cent,  of  the  anhydrous  salt,  or  4.69  per  cent,  of 
metallic  iron. 

Tinctura  Ferri  Per  chloridi.    Tincture  of  Iron  Perchloride.     (B.  P.) 
Dose.— Same  as  Tinctura  Ferri  Chloridi,  U.  S.  P. 

Liquor   Ferri   Subsulphatis.     Solution  of  Ferric  Subsul- 
phate.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Solution  of  basic  ferric  sulphate,  FeO  (SOJs, 
Monsel's  solution,  solution  of  persulphate  of  iron,  E.;  liquor 
hemostatique  de  Monsel,  Fr.;  basischschewefelsaures  eisen- 
oxydlosung,  Monsel's  eisenlosung,  G.  Contains  about  13.6 
per  cent,  of  metallic  iron. 

Derivation, — Ferrous  sulphate,  675 ;  sulphuric  acid,  65  ; 
nitric  acid  and  distilled  water,  of  each  a  sufficient  quantity 
to  make  1,000. 

Properties. — A  dark,  reddish-brown  liquid,  odorless,  or 
nearly  so;  of  an  acid,  strongly  styptic  taste  and  an  acid 
reaction ;  miscible  with  water  and  alcohol. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  §ss.  (15.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  Tll^x.-xx.  (.6-1.3); 
D.,1Uii.-x.  (.r2-.6). 

It  has  no  value  for  internal  use. 

Ferri  Oxidum  Hydratum  Cum  Magnesia.    Ferric  Hydrate 
with  Magnesia.     (U.  S.  P.) 

{Arsenic  Antidote,) 

Solution  of  ferric  sulphate,  50  Cc. ;  water,  100  Cc. 
Magnesia,  10  gm.;  water,  750  Cc.  Keep  solutions  separate 
till  ready  for  use  ;  then  mix. 


IRON   AND   POTASSIUM   TARTRATE  183 

Uses. — -This  preparation  is  used  as  a  chemical  antidote 
to  arsenic,  whereby  the  arsenic  mass  is  mechanically  en- 
wrapped and  converted  into  the  insoluble  arsenite.  The 
administration  of  the  arsenic  antidote  should  be  followed 
by  emetics,  or  the  stomach  pump. 

Dose. — Large  quantities  should  be  repeated  frequently 
od  libitum. 

Ferri  et  Potassii  Tartras.     Iron  and  Potassium  Tartrate. 

(U.  S.  P.) 
{Potassio- Ferric  Tartrate.) 

Synonym. — Ferrum  tartaratum,  B.  P.;  tartarus  ferratus, 
P.  G.;  ferri  potassio-tartras,  ferrum  tartarizatum,  tartras 
ferrico-kalicus,  etc.,  E.;  tartrate  de  fer  et  de  potasse,  tartre 
martial,  Fr.;  weinsaures  eisenoxyd-kali,  eisenweinstein,  G. 

Derivation. — Solution  of  ferric  sulphate,  100  Cc;  tartaric 
acid,  29gm.;  distilled  water,  200  Cc;  ammonia  water  and 
water,  of  each  a  sufficient  quantity.  Made  by  solution  and 
precipitation. 

Properties. — Thin,  transparent  scales,  varying  in  color 
from  garnet-red  to  reddish-brown  ;  without  odor,  and  having 
a  sweetish,  slightly  ferruginous  taste  ;  slightly  deliquescent 
in  the  air ;  very  soluble  in  water ;  insoluble  in  alcohol. 

Dose. — D.,  gr.v.-x.  (.3-.  6). 

Ferri  et  Ammonii  Citras.     Iron  and  Ammonium  Citrate. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Ferrum  citricum  ammoniatum,  P.  G.;  ferri 
ammonio-citras,  ferro-ammonium  citricum,  ammonio-citrate 
of  iron,  E.;  citrate  de  fer  et  d'ammoniaque  (de  fer  ammo- 
niacal),  citrate  ferrique  ammoniacal,  Fr.;  citronensaures 
eisenoxyd-ammonium  (ammoniak),  G. 

Derivation. — Solution  of  ferric  citrate,  100  Cc;  j,mmonia 
water,  40  Cc     Evaporate.     U.  S.  P. 

Properties. — Thin,  transparent,  garnet-red  scales,  with- 
out odor,  and   having  a  saline,   mildly  ferruginous  taste ; 


184  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

deliquescent  in   moist  air ;  soluble  in  water ;  insoluble  in 
alcohol. 

nose.—D.,  gr.v.-x.  (.3-.6). 

Ferri  et  Qcjinin^  Citratis.     Iron  and  Quinine  Citrate. 
(U.  S.  <fe  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Chininum  ferro-citricum,  P.  G.;  citras  ferrico- 
quinicus,  citrate  de  fer  et  de  quinine,  Fr.;  citronensaures 
eisen  cliiniu,  G. 

Source. — Ferric  citrate,  85  gm.;  quinine,  12  gm.;  citric 
acid,  3  gm.;  water,  a  sufficient  quantity  to  make  100  gm. 
U.  S.  P. 

Properties. — Thin,  transparent  scales,  of  a  reddish- 
brown  color,  without  odor,  and  having  a  bitter,  mildly 
ferruginous  taste  ;  slowly  deliquescent  in  damp  air  ;  slowly 
but  completely  soluble  in  cold  water  and  but  partially 
soluble  in  alcohol. 

Febri   et   Quinine   Citras   Solubilis.     Soluble  Iron  and 
Quinine  Citrate.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Occurs   in    thin,   greenish-yellow,    transparent    scales. 
Very  rapidly  and  completely  soluble  in  cold  water. 
Dose. — D.,  gr.v.-x.  (.3-.6). 

general  action  of  iron  and  its  salts. 

External. — Soluble  salts  of  iron,  especially  the  chloride, 
sulphate,  subsulphate  and  nitrate,  are  strongly  astringent. 
They  contract  tissue  when  applied  to  raw  surfaces  or  mucous 
membranes,  by  coagulating  albumin,  and  through  this  means, 
by  compressing  the  blood  vessels  from  without  and  plugging 
them  from  within  with  clotted  blood,  arrest  haemorrhage. 
Iron — in  the  form  of  liquor  ferri  chloridi  or  liquor  ferri 
subsulphatis — is   the  best  haemostatic  medicinal  agent  we 


GENERAL  ACTION   OF  IRON  AND   ITS   SALTS  185 

Internal.  —  Alimentary  Canal, — Iron  is  a  food  rather  than 
a  medicine.  It  exists  as  a  natural  constituent  of  vegetable 
foods  and  of  the  body,  and  is  found  particularly  in  the 
haemoglobin  of  the  blood — to  the  extent  of  about  half  an 
ounce  in  that  of  the  horse.  There  is  a  sufficient  quantity  in 
the  food  to  support  healthy  animals.  If  iron  is  given  to  a 
normal  animal,  it  has  little  effect  unless  continued  for  a  long 
time  in  considerable  quantity,  when  it  may  produce  indiges- 
tion and  constipation. 

The  iron  salts  and  iron  itself  have  practically  the  same 
physiological  action,  but  some  preparations  are  more 
irritating  and  astringent  in  the  digestive  tract  than  others. 
Ferric  chloride  and  ferrous  sulphate  are  particularly  consti- 
pating; while  reduced  iron,  the  oxide,  carbonate,  and  salts 
of  the  vegetable  acids,  are  slightly  so.  Iron  may  blacken 
the  tongue  from  formation  of  the  sulphide.  In  the  stomach 
all  forms  of  iron  are  converted  into  ferric,  and,  to  a  slight 
extent,  ferrous  chloride,  by  the  gastric  juice.  Strongly  acid 
salts  are  decomposed  and  the  combined  acid  in  the  salt  is 
set  free,  owing  to  the  formation  of  the  chloride.  This  acid 
may  prove  irritating  to  the  mucous  membrane  of  the 
stomach.  Acid  salts,  as  the  sulphate,  are,  therefore,  more 
suitable  for  the  horse  than  for  the  dog,  as  the  latter  is  more 
susceptible  to  the  irritating  action.  Ferric  salts  being 
astringent,  so  all  the  iron  salts  possess  some  astringency 
when  they  are  converted  into  ferric  chloride  in  the  stomach. 
But  those  preparations  most  astringent  outside  of  the  body, 
are  also  most  astringent  in  the  digestive  canal,  from  the 
fact  that  as  only  part  of  the  dose  is  normally  changed  into 
the  chloride  in  the  stomach,  the  balance  of  the  dose  (if 
already  astringent),  increases  the  astringency  of  the  chloride 
formed  in  the  stomach. 

The  iron  salts,  on  entering  the  bowels,  come  into  con- 
tact with  an  alkaline  medium.  None  of  the  iron  is  absorbed, 
but  escapes  in  the  faeces  (as  the  sulphide),  coloring  the  dis- 
charges black.  If  none  of  the  iron  given  as  medicine  is 
absorbed,  how   is  the  body  benefited  thereby?    Bunge's 


186  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

theory,  now  generally  accepted,  holds  that  the  iron  absorbed 
into  the  blood  is  only  that  contained  as  a  constituent  of  the 
nucleoalbumins  occurring  naturally  in  animal  or  vegetable 
foods.  A  larger  part  of  this  natural  source  of  iron  is  ordi- 
narily transformed — as  is  all  that  given  as  medicine — into 
the  insoluble  sulphide  in  the  intestines.  When  iron  is 
deficient  in  the  blood,  as  in  ausemia,  iron  is  only  of  value 
therapeutically  by  uniting  with  sulphur  compounds  of  the 
food  or  those  formed  as  products  of  indigestion,  thus  enabling 
the  iron  in  the  food  to  become  absorbed  by  protecting  it 
from  decomposition  and  transformation  into  the  insoluble 
sulphide.     The  action  of  iron  is  thus  indirect. 

The  older  hypothesis  taught  that  iron  is  absorbed  as  an 
albuminate  of  iron  and  sodium,  or  is  converted  into  that 
combination  in  the  blood.  No  theory,  however,  can 
invalidate  the  fact  that  iron  and  its  salts  are  beneficial  in 
anaemic  states  by  improving  the  quality  Oi  the  blood, 
nutrition  and  general  health. 

Blood. — In  anaemia,  iron  indirectly  increases  the  amount 
of  haemoglobin  in  the  blood,  and  also  the  number  of  red 
corpuscles.  The  latter  effect  is  not  so  marked  as  with 
arsenic.  In  regard  to  iron  increasing  the  number  of  corpus- 
cles, we  may  say  that  the  blood-forming  organs  are  stimu- 
lated, or  supplied-  with  blood-making  material  by  iron. 
Iron  increases  the  power  of  the  red  corpuscles  to  hold 
and  carry  oxygen  from  the  lungs  to  the  tissues,  and  to 
transform  it  into  ozone.  Iron  is  then  indirectly  an  oxidizing 
agent,  stimulating  tissue  change  and  vital  activity.  On 
account  of  the  astringent  properties  of  iron,  when  applied 
externally  to  the  tissues,  it  is  thought  that  its  tonic  action 
internally  depends,  in  part,  upon  its  stimulating  the  con- 
tractility of  the  muscles  and  vessels,  and,  therefore,  improv- 
ing tone. 

Elimination. — Although,  as  we  have  seen,  the  iron  given 
as  medicine  to  animals  is  excreted  unabsorbed,  yet  iron  is 
eliminated  to  a  slight  extent  by  the  urine,  bile,  saliva,  sweat 
and  tears. 


GENERAL  ACTION  OF  IRON   AND   ITS  SALTS  187 

Summary. — Iron  is  essentially  a  blood  tonic  and  restor- 
ative, increasing  the  number  of  red  blood  corpuscles,  the 
amount  of  haemoglobin,  and  aiding  nutrition.  Externall}^  it 
is  an  astringent,  styptic,  and  stimulant. 

Uses  External. — Liquor  ferri  chloridi  and  liquor  ferri 
subsulphatis  are  the  medicinal  preparations  most  frequently 
used  to  stop  bleeding  from  wounds  or  natural  cavities  of 
the  body.  They  may  be  injected,  applied  by  swab,  or  on 
absorbent  material,  which  is  packed  into  the  wound  or 
cavity.  As  a  local  application  in  pharyngitis,  we  use  1  part 
of  the  solution  of  ferric  chloride  with  4  parts  of  glycerin. 
In  the  same  strength,  diluted  with  water,  the  chloride  may 
be  injected  into  the  uterus  to  stop  haemorrhage.  Again,  a 
solution,  in  the  strength  of  2  drachms  to  the  pint  of  water, 
is  employed  as  an  enema  to  destroy  ascarides.  The  objec- 
tion to  these  solutions  of  iron  is  that  they  form  heavy,  nasty, 
tenacious  clots,  when  employed  to  arrest  haemorrhage,  and 
the  clots  are  apt  to  decompose  and  favor  sepsis.  Therefore 
they  should  not  be  used  if  other  means,  as  ligature,  pres- 
sure, heat  or  cold,  can  be  utilized. 

Internal. — Reduced  ii  on  is  one  of  the  best  preparations 
for  dogs.  It  is  commonly  administered  in  pill,  and  often 
with  other  tonics,  as  strychnine,  quinine,  and  arsenic. 
Reduced  iron  is  non-irritating,  non-astringeut,  and  non- 
constipating.  It  may  be  placed  on  the  tongue  in  the  form 
of  powder. 

i^errous  sulphate  is  one  of  the  two  most  valuable  forms 
of  iron  which  can  be  prescribed  to  the  larger  animals.  The 
other  form  is  the  tincture  of  ferric  chloride.  The  sulphate 
is  more  astringent  and  irritating  than  some  of  the  other  iron 
salts,  but  does  not  usually  cause  constipation  in  the  horse. 
Indeed,  when  constipation  is  due  to  loss  of  tone  in  the  lower 
bowel,  small  doses,  by  their  local  stimulant  action,  may 
actually  assist  peristalsis.  The  dried  ferrous  sulphate  is 
prescribed  to  horses  with  anaemia,  and  is  the  most  common 
constituent  of  tonic  powders.  It  is  frequently  combined 
with  powdered  gentian,  nux  vomica,  arsenic,  and  bicarbonate 


188  INORGANIO  AGENTS 

of  sodium.  Sodium  bicarbonate  is  useful  in  indigestion  and 
lessens  the  astringent  action  of  sulphate  of  iron.  A  common 
and  useful  prescription  for  the  horse  is  as  follows  : 

Sodii  bicarbonatis. 

Pulv.  nucis  vomicae aa  3  ii. 

Ferri  sulphatis  exsicc 3  i. 

M.  et  f.  pulv,  1.     Dispense  pulv.  tales  no.  xxx. 
S.     Give  one  powder  gn  the  feed  three  times  daily. 

Ferrous  sulphate  is  given  in  anaemia  secondary  to  chronic 
indigestion,  intestinal  parasites,  leucorrhcea,  ozoeua,  albumi- 
nuria, ?.nd  in  convalescence  from  acute  diseases.  lu  conva- 
lescence, iron  may  well  be  preceded  by  alcohol  and  bitters. 
Large  doses  of  iron  sulphate  are  indicated  in  haemorrhage 
from  the  bowels,  if  unassociated  with  acute  inflammation,  as 
in  purpura.  In  the  latter  disease,  sulphuric  acid  is  a  syner- 
gistic remedy. 

The  saccharated  ferrous  carbonate  may  be  given  horses 
if  they  will  not  voluntarily  take  the  sulphate  of  iron  on 
their  food.  It  is  a  useful,  mild,  non-astringent  preparation 
for  dogs,  and  may  be  given  in  powder,  or  the  mass  may  be 
dispensed  in  pills. 

The  iodide  of  iron  is  thought  to  be  of  benefit  in  man  in 
scrofulus  conditions,  but  as  these  states  do  not  commonly 
occur  in  horses  and  dogs,  the  drug  is  of  no  value  except  in 
rickets.  When  the  action  of  iodine  and  iron  are  desirable, 
it  is  often  better  to  prescribe  them  separately. 

The  tincture  of  ferric  chloride  is  a  very  powerful 
preparation.  It  contains  free  hydrochloric  acid.  Alcohol 
constitutes  three-quarters  of  its  bulk,  and  there  are  also 
some  traces  of  ether.  It  was  formerly  thought  to  be  hydro- 
chloric ether,  arising  from  the  action  of  the  contained 
muriatic  acid  on  the  alcohol  of  the  preparation ;  but  Weir 
Mitchell  has  shown  it  to  be  nitrous  ether.  Ferric  chloride 
is  of  itself  diuretic,  apart  from  any  action  of  nitrous  ether 
in  the  tincture.  The  free  acid  aids  digestion  in  the  stomach. 
The   tincture   of  ferric   chloride   is   locally  stimulant   and 


MANGANUM  189 

astringeut,  and  generally  aids  digestion;  is  diuretic,  and  in 
large  doses,  owing  to  the  alcohol  which  it  contains,  is 
somewhat  stimulating.  The  tincture  is,  accordingly,  partic- 
ularly valuable  in  anaemia,  dependent  upon  chronic  indiges- 
tion in  horses  and  cattle,  and  in  that  occurring  in  convales- 
cence from  acute  diseases.  In  such  conditions,  the 
preparation  stimulates  appetite,  digestion  and  renal  activity. 
"When  given  by  the  mouth,  the  tincture  of  the  chloride  of 
iron  is  of  local  benefit  in  pharyngitis,  combined  with  chlorate 
of  potash,  glycerin  and  water.  It  is  also  prescribed  in 
intestinal  haemorrhage,  but  there  is  no  remote  astringent  or 
styptic  effect  exerted  upon  the  vessels  or  tissues.  Small 
doses  of  the  tincture  of  ferric  chloride  may  be  safely 
dropped,  undiluted,  upon  the  tongue  of  horses  or  cattle  from 
s,  small  bottle  used  as  a  measure.  It  is  frequently  conjoined 
with  alcohol  and  mineral  acids. 

Iron  and  ammonium  citrate  and  iron  and  potassium 
tartrate  are  mild,  non-astringent  preparations,  suitable  for 
dogs  and  given  in  pill. 

Iron  and  quinine  citrate  is  a  useful  combination  for 
dogs,  dispensed  in  pill.  It  is  often  employed  in  canine 
distemper  and  chorea. 

Manganum. 

{Manganum  is  not  used  in  Medicine  in  the  metallic  state.) 

PoTASsn  Permanganas.    Potassium  Permanganate.    KMnO^. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Kali  hypermanganicum  crystallisatum,  P.  G.; 
hy permanganas  potassicus  S.  kalicus,  permanganate  of 
potash,  E.;  permanganate  de  potasse,  Fr.;  uebermangan- 
saures  kali,  G. 

Derivation. — Caustic  potash,  chlorate  of  potassium  and 
black  oxide  of  manganese  are  fused  together.  6  KHO  + 
KCIO3  +  3  MnO,  =  3  K,MNO,  +  KCl  +  3  H,0.  The 
manganate  of  potassium  is  boiled  with  water  till  the  color 


190  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

changes  to  purple  and  the  permanganate  is  formed.  3  Kj 
MnO,  +  2  H,0  =  2  KMnO,  +  4  KHO  +  MnO,.  The  liquid 
is  neutralized  with  carbonic  dioxide  gas  and  evaporated. 

Properties. — Slender,  monoclinic  prisms,  of  a  dark  purple 
color,  odorless,  and  having  a  taste  at  first  sweet,  but  after- 
wards disagreeable  and  astringent ;  permanent  in  dry  air ; 
soluble  in  16  parts  of  water ;  undergoes  decomposition  with 
alcohol ;  reaction  neutral. 

Incomjxitibles. — It  is  very  readily  deoxidized  in  the  pres- 
ence of  organic  matter. 

Dose. — H.,  gr.xv.-xx.  (1.-1.3)  in  one  pint  of  water;  D., 
gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.12),  in  pill,  or  tablet,  with  kaolin. 

ACTION  OF  POTASSIUM   PERMANGANATE. 

External.  —  Potassium  permanganate,  like  hydrogen 
dioxide,  is  a  powerful  oxidizing  agent.  It  quickly  parts 
with  its  oxygen  in  contact  with  organic  matter,  largely  in  the 
form  of  ozone,  and  is  broken  up  into  black  oxide  of  manga- 
nese and  potassa.  Solutions,  which  are  of  a  purple  hue, 
change  into  a  dark  brown  color  when  this  transformation 
occurs,  and  are  no  longer  of  any  medicinal  value.  This 
action  is  exceedingly  rapid  and  transient,  and  its  effects 
correspondingly  so  on  the  tissues.  For  this  reason,  and 
because  bacteria  are  so  combined  with  organic  matter  in  the 
tissues,  its  action  is  largely  exerted  on  the  latter,  iand 
potassium  permanganate  is,  therefore,  a  better  antiseptic 
than  disinfectant.  Outside  of  the  body,  permanganate  of 
potash  is  a  disinfectant,  but  it  is  too  expensive  for  general 
purposes.  In  powder'  it  is  slightly  caustic,  owing  to  the 
potassa  set  free  in  its  decomposition  ;  and  in  solution  is 
stimulant  to  the  tissues.  A  solution  of  permanganate  of 
potash  is  a  deodorizer  when  in  contact  with  putrid  and 
decomposing  matter,  but  is  not  of  the  slightest  value  as  a 
deodorizer  and  disinfectant  to  premises  when  simply  stand- 
ing in  vessels,  as  frequently  advised.  There  is  no  danger 
irom  absorption  of  potassium  permanganate  when  applied 
to  the  body. 


USES    OF   POTASSIUM    PERMANGANATE  191 

Uses  Internal. — Potassium  permanganate  is  occasionally 
used  in  human  medicine  in  dyspepsia  and  flatulence,  for  its 
antiseptic  action,  and  in  obesity.  It  is  supposed  to  resem- 
ble iron  in  its  effects,  and  has  been  used  in  ammenorrhcea 
associated  with  anaemia.  Moor,  of  New  York,  has  shown 
that  potassium  permanganate  is  the  best  chemical  antidote 
for  morphine  or  opium,  chemically  destroying  them  by  oxi- 
dation ;  10  to  15  grains  may  be  given  to  dogs  in  8  ounces  of 
water  immediately  after  poisoning.  Horses  may  be  given  2 
drachms  of  permanganate  of  potash  in  5  pints  of  water.  In 
case  morphine  has  been  swallowed,  solutions  of  potassium 
permanganate  should  be  accidulated  with  vinegar,  or  diluted 
sulphuric  acid,  in  order  to  form  soluble  compounds  in  the 
digestive  tract.  After  morphine  or  opium  have  been  ab- 
sorbed into  the  blood,  it  is  said  that  potassium  permanganate 
is  also  antidotal  when  injected  subcntaneously.  It  is  difficult 
to  see,  theoretically,  how  this  can  be  the  case,  and  practically 
has  been  proven  not  to  be  so. 

Uses  External. — Potassium  permanganate  is  a  valuable 
antiseptic  and  deodorizer  in  solutions,  varying  in  strength 
from  one-tenth  of  1  per  cent,  to  A  per  cent.,  and  is  used  in  the 
treatment  of  sores,  wounds,  ulcers,  abscess,  caries,  gangrene, 
fetid  ozoena,  otorrhoea,  and  leucorrhoea.  In  the  stronger 
solution  it  is  stimulant,  as  well  as  antiseptic.  It  is  a  useful 
agent  in  stomatitis  and  sore  throat,  when  applied  locally  by 
means  of  a  swab.  The  powder  is  employed  as  a  caustic 
upon  ulcers.  Potassium  permanganate  is  one  of  the 
best  agents  with  which  to  sterilize  the  hands  before  operat- 
ing. A  1  to  2  per  cent,  solution  is  to  be  recommended  for 
this  purpose,  and  the  stains  may  be  removed  from  the  hands 
by  washing  them  in  a  saturated  solution  of  oxalic  acid,  or  in 
a  dilute  solution  of  hydrochloric  acid. 

Potassium  permanganate  is  a  test  for  impure  water  in 
changing  color  in  the  presence  of  organic  matter.  Two 
ounces  of  a  1  per  cent,  solution  will  clarify  and  deodorize 
100  gallons  of  stale  and  putrescent  rain  water. 


192  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

SECTION  YI. 
Hydrargyrum. 

Mercury.     Quicksilver. 

Synonym. — Mercurius  vivas,  argentum  vivum,  E.;  mer- 
cure,  vif- argent,  Fr.;  quecksilber,  G. 

Derivation. — Cinnabar,  the  native  sulphate,  is  roasted  or 
distilled  with  lime,  and  condensed. 

Properties. — A  shining,  silver-white  metal,  without  odor 
or  taste  ;  liquid  at  ordinary  temperatures,  and  divisible  into 
spherical  globules  ;  insoluble  in  the  ordinary  solvents  ;  boils 
at  675^^  F.,  and  is  completely  volatilized;  spec,  gr.,  13.5584 
When  cooled  to  38.88^  F.,  it  forms  a  ductile,  malleable  mass. 

PREPARATIONS  CONTAININO  METALLIC  MERCURY. 

I. — Hydrargyrum  cum  Greta.    Mercury  with  Chalk.     (U.  fe.  &  B.  P.) 

Mercury,  38  gm. ;  honey,  10  gm. ;  prepared  chalk,  57  gm. ;  water, 
sufficient  quantity  to  make  100  gm.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Mercuric  oxide  becomes  developed  by  keeping,  making  the  powder 
more  active. 

Properties. — A  light  gray,  rather  damp  powder,  free  from  gritti- 
ness,  without  odor,  and  having  a  slightly  sweetish  taste.  Contains 
mercury  in  fine  division  by  shaking  the  ingredients  together. 

Dose.— Foals  and  calves,  gr.x.-xv.  (.6-1.);  D.,  gr.i.  x.  (.06-. 6). 

II. — Massa  Hydrargyri.     Mass  of  Mercury.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Sf^now2/7w.— Pilula  hydrargyri,  B.  P.:  blue  mass,  blue  pill,  pilulse 
coeruleae,  E.;  pilule  de  mercure,  Fr.;  mercurial  pillen,  G. 

Mercury,  33  gm.;  glycyrrhiza,  5  gm.;  althaea,  25  gm.;  glycerin,  3 
gm. ;  honey  of  roses,  34  gm.  Contains  33  per  cent,  of  mercury  in  a  state 
of  fine  division.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— D.,  gr.i.-x.  (.06-.6). 

Ill.—Unguentum  Hydrargyri.    Mercurial  Ointment.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
(Blue  Ointment.) 

Synonym.  —  Pommade  mercurielle,  pommade  Nai)olitaine,  Fr. ; 
graue  quecksilbersalbe,  G. 

Mercury,  500  gm.;  lard,  250  gm.;  suet,  230  gm. ;  oleate  of  mercury, 
20  gm.     Contains  50  per  cent,  of  mercury.     (U.  S.  P.) 


RED   MERCURIC   OXIDE  193 

Hydrargyri  Oxidum  Rdbrum.     Eed  Mercuric  Oxide.     HgO. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym.  —  Hydrargyrum  oxydatum  rubrum,  P.  G.; 
hydrargyri-nitrico-oxydum,  mercurius  corrosivus  (praecipi- 
tatus)  ruber,  oxydum  hydrargyri  cum,  peroxide  of  mercury, 
red  precipitate,  mercuric  oxide,  E.;  deuto-oxyde  (peroxyde) 
de  mercure,  oxyde  mercurique,  precipite  rouge,  poudre  de 
Jean  de  Vigo,  Fr.;  rotbes  quecksilberoxyde,  rother  pracipi- 
tat  (quecksilber-pracipitat),  G. 

Derivation. — Dissolve  mercury  in  diluted  nitric  acid. 

3  Hg,  H-  16  HNO3  =  6  Hg  (N0,\.  (Mercuric  nitrate) 
+  4  NO  +  8  H,0. 

Rub  mercuric  nitrate  with  metallic  mercury  and  heat. 

2  Hg  (NOJ,  +  Hg,  =  4  HgO  +  2  N,0,     ■ 

Properties. — Heavy,  orange-red,  crystalline  scales,  or  a. 
crystalline  powder ;  odorless,  and  having  a  somewhat 
metallic  taste  ;  permanent  in  the  air ;  almost  insoluble  in 
water ;  insoluble  in  alcohol. 

PREPARATION. 

Unguentum  Hydrargyri  Oxidi  Rubri.    Ointment  of  Red  Mercuric  Oxide. 

(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Red  precipitate  ointment,  red  mercuric  oxide,  10;  cas- 
tor oil,  5;  ointment,  85.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Hydrargyri  Oxidum  Flavum.   Yellow  Mercuric  Oxide.   HgO. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — ^Hydrargyrum  oxydatum  via  humida  para- 
tum,  P.  G.;  hj^drargyrum  oxydatum  prsecipitatum  (vel 
flavum),  precipitated  oxide  of  mercury,  E.;  oxyde  de  mercure 
jaune  (precipite),  Fr.;  pracipitirtes  (Gelbes)  quecksilber- 
oxyde, G. 

Derivation. — Precipitate  an  aqueous  solution  of  mercuric 
chloride,  100,  with  caustic  soda,  40  :  HgCl,  +  2  NaOH  = 
HgO  +  2  NaCl  -f  H,0. 


194  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Properties, — A  light  orange-yellow,  amorphous,  heavy, 
impalpable  powder ;  odorless,  and  having  a  somewhat  met- 
allic taste ;  permanent  in  the  air,  but  turning  darker  on 
exposure  to  the  light ;  almost  insoluble  in  water  ;  insoluble 
in  alcohol. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Unguentum  Hydrargyri  Oxidi  Flavi.    Ointment  of  Yellow  Mercuric 
Oxide.    (U.  S.  P.) 
Yellow  mercuric  oxide,  10;  ointment,  90. 

Oltatum  Hydrargyri.    Oleate  of  Mercury.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Yellow  mercuric  oxide,  200;  oleic  acid,  800.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Hrdrargyri  Chloridum  Corrosiyum:.     Corrosive  Mercuric 
Chloride.     HgCl,.     (U.  S.  P.) 
{Corrosive  Chloride  of  Mercury,  Corrosive  Sublimate.) 

Synonym. — Hydrargyri  perchloridum,  B.  P.;  hydrargy- 
rum birchloratum  corrosivum,  P.  G.;  hydrargyrum  muriati- 
cum  corrosivum,  hydrargyri  bichloridum,  sublimatus  cor- 
rosivus,  sublimatum  corrosivum,  mercurius  sublimatus 
corrosivus,  chloruretum  (chloretum)  hydrargyricum,  per- 
chloride  of  mercury,  bichloride  of  mercury,  E.;  Deuto- 
chlorure  de  mercure,  sublime  corrosif,  chlorure  mercurique, 
Pr.;  aetzendes  quecksilberchlorid,  aetzender  quecksilbersub- 
limat,  G. 

Derivation. — Heat  a  mixture  of  mercuric  sulphate,  20 ; 
sodium  chloride,  16;  manganese  dioxide,!.  Hg  SO^  -j- 2 
NaCl  +  MnO,  =  HgCl,  +  Na,  SO,  +  MnO,.  The  bichloride 
sublimes  and  is  condensed. 

Properties. — Heavy,  colorless,  rhombic  crystals,  or  crys- 
talline masses  ;  odorless,  and  having  an  acrid  and  persistent 
metallic  taste  ;  permanent  in  the  air  ;  soluble  in  16  parts  of 
water  and  in  3  parts  of  alcohol. 

Incompatibles. — It  is  incompatible  with  most  substances. 

Dose.—B..  &  C,  gr.v.-vii.  (.3-.5);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.ii.  (.12); 
D.,gr.^-i(-002-.008). 


MILD   MERCUROUS   CHLORIDE  195 

Hydrargyri  Chloridum  Mite.     Mild  Mercurous  Chloride. 

Hg,Cl,     (U.S.  P.) 

( CaloTnelj  Mild  Chloride  of  Mercury.) 

Synonym. — Hydrargyri  subchloridura,  B.  P.;  hydrargy- 
rum chloratum  mite,  P.  G.;  hydrargyri  chloridum,  hydrar- 
gyrum chloratum  (muriaticum)  dulce,  mercurius  dulcis, 
calomelas  chloruretum  (chloretum)  hydrargyrosum,  sub- 
chloride  (protochloride)  of  mercury,  E.;  protochlorure  (sous- 
muriate)  de  mercure,  calomele,  Fr.;  quecksilberchloriir, 
calomel,  G. 

Derivation. — Heat  mercurous  sulphate  and  sodium 
chloride.  Calomel  sublimes.  Hgj  SO^  +  2  Na  CI  =  Hg^ 
€1,  +  Na,  SO,. 

Properties. — A  white,  impalpable  powder;  odorless  and 
tasteless ;  permanent  in  the  air ;  insoluble  in  water  or 
alcohol.  When  strongly  heated  it  is  wholly  volatilized 
without  melting. 

Dose.—B^.,  3ss.-i.  (2.-4);  C,  3  v.-vi.  (20.-24);  D.,  gr.ss. 
(.03),  in  divided  doses;  D.,  gr.iii.-v.  (.2-.3)  in  single  doses. 

PREPARATION. 

Pilulace  Catharticce  Compositce.     Compound  Cathartic  Pills.  (U.  S.  P.) 

Compound  extract  of  colocynth,  80;  calomel,  60;  extract  of  jalap, 
30;  gamboge,  15;  water  to  make  1,000. 
Dose.— D.,  pill  1  to  3. 

Hydrargyri  Iodidum  Rubrum.     Red  Mercuric  Iodide.    Hgl,. 

(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

(Binodide  of  Mercury,  Bed  Iodide  of  Mercury.) 

Synonym.  —  Hydrargyrum  biiodatum  rubrum,  P.  G.; 
deutoioduretum  (biniodidum)  hydrargyri,  mercurius  iodatus 
ruber,  iduretum  hydrargyricum,  E.;  deut-iodure  (bi-iodure) 
de  mercure,  iodure  mercurique,  Fr.;  rothes  jodquecksilber, 
quecksilberjodid,  G. 

Derivation. — Mix  aqueous  solutions  of  corrosive  mercuric 
chloride,   40gm.,   and   potassium   iodide,   50gm.      The  red 


196  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

iodide  is  precipitated.     Filter,  wash  and  dry.     HgClj  +  2  KT 
=  Hgl,  +  2  K  CI. 

Properties. — A  scarlet-red,  amorphous  powder  ;  odorless 
and  tasteless  ;  permanent  in  the  air ;  almost  insoluble  in 
water  ;  soluble  in  130  parts  of  alcohol. 

Unguentum  Hydrargyri  Nitratis.     Ointment  of  Mercurie 
Nitrate.     (Citrine  Ointment). 

Mercury,  70  gm.;  nitric  acid,  175  gm.;  lard  oil,  760  gm. 
Properties. — ^^A  lemon-yellow  ointment 

Hydrargyrum  Ammoniatum.     Ammouiated  Mercury.     NH^. 
HgCl.     (U.S.<feB.P.) 

(  White  Precipitate^  Mercuric  Ammonium  Chloride.) 

Synonym. — Hydrargyrum  prsBcipitatum  album,  P.  G.; 
hydrargyrum  amidato-bichloratum  (ammoniato-muriaticum),^ 
hydrargyri  ammonio-chloridum,  mercurius  pi  secipitatus 
albus,  E.;  oxychlorure  ammoniacal  de  mercure,  mercure  pre^ 
cipite  blanc,  Fr.;  weisse  quecksilber-pracipat,  quecksilber- 
chloridamidid,  G. 

Derivation. — Mix  an  aqueous  solution  (1-20)  of  corrosive 
mercuric  chloride,  200,  with  ammonia  water,  15. 

HgCl,  +  2  NH.OH  =  NH,  Hg  CI  +  NH.Cl  +  2H,0. 
Filter,  wash  with  diluted  ammonia  water  (1-20),  and  dry  tha 
precipitated  aramoniated  mercury. 

Properties. — White,  pulverent  pieces,  or  a  white,  amor- 
phous powder,  without  odor,  and  having  an  earthy,  after- 
wards styptic  and  metallic,  taste  ;  permanent  in  the  air ; 
almost  insoluble  in  water  or  in  alcohol. 

PREPARATION. 

Unguentum  Hydrargyri  Ammoniati.     Ointment  of  Ammoniated  Mer- 
cury.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P  ) 
Synonym. —White  precipitate  ointment.    Ammoniated  mercury^ 
10;  benzoinated  lard,  90.     (U.  S.  P.) 


GENERAL  ACTION  OF  MERCURY  AND  ITS  SALTS      197 
GENERAL  ACTION  OF  MERCURY  AND  ITS  SALTS. 

External. — The  salts  of  mercury  are  germicidal,  irritant, 
and,  in  some  cases,  caustic,  when  applied  externally. 
Corrosive  sublimate  is  the  most  powerful  antiseptic  in 
general  use.  It  unites  with  albuminous  fluids  in,  or  on,  the 
tissues,  to  form  insoluble  albuminates  of  mercury,  and  its 
antiseptic  properties  are  then  lost.  This  action  is  prevented 
by  adding  5  parts  of  tartaric  acid  to  1  part  of  corrosive 
sublimate,  and  such  combination  is  provided  in  the  tablets 
foanufactured  for  surgical  purposes. 

Hydrochloric  acid,  or  salt,  may  be  employed  to  obtain 
the  same  result.  Corrosive  sublimate  is  a  more  powerful 
germicide  than  carbolic  acid,  yet  it  cannot  be  used  to  disin- 
fect metallic  instruments,  as  the  bichloride  is  decomposed 
and  mercury  deposited  upon  them.  The  salts  of  mercury 
kill  the  lower  forms  of  animal  as  well  as  vegetable  life,  and 
are  valuable  in  the  treatment  of  parasitic  skin  diseases.  As 
a  rule,  antiseptics  relieve  itching,  and  the  mercury  salts  are 
often  used  to  comVjat  this  condition.  Mercury  and  its  salts 
are  absorbed  when  rubbed  into  the  unbroken  skin,  particu- 
larly when  in  combination  with  oil  or  grease. 

Metallic  mercury  and  its  salts  (notably  the  iodide),  when 
rubbed  well  into  the  skin  with  fat,  are  thought  to  aid  the 
absorption  of  inflammatory  exudates  in  underlying  parts.    . 

Internal. — The  irritant  salts  of  mercury,  as  the  bichloride, 
iodide,  nitrate,  and  some  of  the  oxides,  in  large  doses, 
produce  gastro-enteritis,  vomiting,  colic,  bloody  diarrhoea, 
collapse  and  death.  The  white  of  egg  is  an  antidote  to 
corrosive  sublimate,  forming  an  insoluble  albuminate. 
Emetics,  or  the  stomach  pump,  should  be  used  in  case 
vomiting  is  not  spontaneous. 

The  use  of  mercury,  or  any  of  its  compounds,  if  con- 
tinued for  any  considerable  time,  either  internally  or  exter- 
nally, in  such  a  way  as  to  lead  to  absorption,  may  cause  a 
chronic  form  of  poisoning  or  mercurialism.  This  condition 
is  characterized  by  fetor  of  the  breath  and  soreness  of  the 


198  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

gums,  making  mastication  painful.  The  gums  are  swollen 
and  bleed  easily ;  the  tongue  swells  and  salivation  ensues. 
The  teeth  become  loosened,  the  salivary  and  parotid  glands 
enlarge,  the  temperature  is  elevated,  and  if  the  condition 
continues,  there  are :  ulceration  of  the  mouth  (mercurial 
stomatitis),  necrosis  of  the  jaw,  general  weakness,  a  watery 
condition  of  the  blood,  oedema,  anaemia  and  cachexia,  pros- 
tration and  death.  Local  poisoning,  as  exhibited  by  paralysis 
of  the  hand  and  forearm,  has  occurred  in  a  man  who  applied 
the  ointment  of  red  iodide  of  mercury  to  cattle.  There  is  a 
tendency  for  mercury  to  accumulate  in  the  system,  when 
given  in  large  doses,  or  in  smaller  doses  when  continued  for 
a  considerable  period. 

The  prevailing  fashion  of  administering  calomel  in  small 
and  repeated  doses,  may  lead  to  mercurialism  if  purgation 
does  not  occur. 

Stomach  and  Intestines. — Mercury  and  the  mercurous 
salts,  especially  calomel,  are  mildly  irritant  and  act  as  pur- 
gatives. The  upper  part  of  the  intestinal  tract,  notably  the 
duodenum,  is  influenced,  and  peristalsis  and  secretion  are 
stimulated  so  that  the  bile  is  hurried  along  together  with 
the  other  ingesta,  and  expelled.  Calomel  and  mercury  are 
called  cholagogus  cathartics,  yet  they  do  not  increase  the 
amount  of  bile  secreted,  but  diminish  it  by  retarding  its 
absorption  in  the  bowels.  Corrosive  sublimate,  on  the 
other  hand,  is  an  hepatic  stimulant  and  augments  the  amount 
of  bile  secreted. 

The  purgative  action  of  calomel  and  mercury  in  the 
small  intestines  is  assisted  by  salines,  which  increase  the 
amount  of  fluid  in  the  bowels,  and  aid  in  the  expulsion  and 
prevent  the  absorption  of  mercury.  The  saline  should  be 
given  four  hours  after  the  administration  of  calomel  to 
cattle. 

Blood. — Mercury  is  generally  thought  to  circulate  in  the 
blood  as  an  albuminate.  It  is  stated  that  metallic  mercury 
is  absorbed  unchanged  and  circulates  in  this  condition  in  the 
blood ;  while  it  is.  also  held  that  corrosive  sublimate  finds 


USES   OF  MERCURY  AND   ITS   SALTS  199 

its  way  into  the  blood  as  an  albuminate  of  the  oxide  of 
mercury,  in  combination  with  sodium  chloride.  It  will  be 
perceived  that  there  is  no  exact  knowledge  concerning  this 
matter.  It  is  supposed  that  mercury  diminishes  the  fibrin 
in  the  blood,  and  the  production  of  exudations,  especially  in 
connection  with  inflammation  of  serous  membranes,  and 
even  hastens  the  absorption  of  inflammatory  deposits. 
Mercury  is,  therefore,  said  to  be  antipholgistic  in  combating 
the  effects  of  inflammation.  A  part  of  this  result  may  be 
attributed  to  the  antiseptic  action  of  the  salts  of  mercury  in 
the  intestines  by  preventing  fermentation  and  absorption  of 
toxic  material.  For  want  of  a  better  term  to  explain  the 
beneficial  actions  of  mercury  on  the  tissues,  that  vague  term 
"alterative"  is  frequently  applied.  Mercury  (and  calomel 
in  particular)  is  somewhat  diuretic,  stimulating  the  secreting 
cells,  or  nerves  of  the  kidneys,  and  increasing  the  amount  of 
urine. 

Elimination.  —  Mercury  is  eliminated  slowly  by  the 
kidneys,  liver,  salivary  glands,  and,  in  fact,  by  every  con- 
ceivable channel.  lu  thus  stimulating  the  eliminative 
activities  of  the  various  glands,  mercury  has  been  termed  a 
deobstruent.  It  has  been  surmised  that  its  alterative  effect 
depends,  in  part,  upon  this  action  in  stimulating — to  use  the 
old  term — the  emunctories. 

SUMMARY   OF  ACTIONS   OP  MERCURY  AND   ITS   SALTS. 

External. — Antiseptic,  germicide,  irritant,  caustic,  para- 
siticide, antipruritic  and  sorbefacient. 

Internal. — Antiseptic,  purgative,  chologogue,  antiphlo- 
gistic, and  alterative  diuretic  (calomel). 

TOXICOLOGY.     (See  action  internal.) 

USES   OF  MERCURY  AND   ITS   SALTS. 

Hydrargyrum  cum  creta  is  similar  to  calomel  in  its 
effects  but  very  much  milder,  unless  it  contains  the  black 
oxide  of  mercury,  when  its  action  is  much  intensified.     The 


200  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

same  may  be  said  of  massa  liydrargjri.  Either  |)reparation 
may  be  given  dogs  as  a  laxative  in  indigestion  with  vomiting 
and  diarrhoea  ;  or  to  foals  and  calves  with  intestinal  indiges- 
tion and  diarrhoea,  particularly  if  accompanied  with  jaundice. 
The  oleatum  or  unguentum  hydrargyri  are  rubbed  into  the 
skin  to  cause  resolution  of  chronic  inflammatory  swellings, 
and  also  to  kill  animal  and  vegetable  parasites.  As  the 
former  action  is  due  to  absorption,  large  quantities  will  lead 
to  poisoning  when  applied  over  an  extensive  surface.  We 
can  use  other  and  safer  remedies,  as  creolin,  tar  or  sulphur 
ointment,  for  parasiticides.  It  is  to  be  remembered  in  this 
connection  that  grease  alone  will  kill  lice  and  other  parasites 
on  the  skin.  On  account  of  their  sorbefacient  properties, 
the  oleate  and  blue  ointment  of  mercury  are  applied  over 
chronically  enlarged  glands,  swollen  joints,  and  thickened 
tendons.  In  view  of  their  parasitic  action,  these  preparations 
are  employed  to  kill  the  fungus  of  favus  and  ringworm,  and 
to  destroy  lice  and  the  acari  of  mange,  when  inhabiting 
circumscribed  areas.  Itching  in  skin  diseases,  as  chronic 
eczema  and  psoriasis,  is  relieved  by  either  blue  ointment  or 
the  oleate  of  mercury. 

HYDRARGYRI  OXIDUM  RUBRUM,  OR  FLAVUM. 

The  official  ointments  of  the  red  and  yellow  mercuric 
oxides  are  prescribed,  as  stimulant  and  antiseptic  prepara- 
tions, in  chronic  conjunctivitis,  granular  lids  and  scaly  skin 
diseases.  They  are  also  employed  on  indolent  ulcers, 
swollen  glands  and  old  granulating  surfaces.  When  used  on 
mucous  membranes,  or  raw  surfaces,  the  official  ointments 
should  be  diluted  with  equal  parts  of  lard. 

HYDRARGYRI  CHLORIDUM  CORROSIVUM. 

External. — Corrosive  sublimate  is  of  value  mainly  as  an 
antiseptic  on  the  unbroken  skin.  It  is  germicide  in  solutions 
containing  1  part  to  500,  or  1,000,  of  water.  Applied  to 
mucous  membranes,  or  raw  surfaces,  it  is  antiseptic  in  solu- 
tions varying  in  strength  from  1-10,000  to  1-1,000. 


HYDRARGYRI   CHLORIDUM   CORROSIVUM  201 

In  the  larger  cavities  of  the  body,  as  the  vagina,  solu- 
tions should  not  be  used  in  strength  greater  than  1-5000  or 
1-3000.  Mercuric  bichloride,  even  in  the  weaker  solution, 
is  too  damaging  to  the  serous  membrane  of  the  peritoneal 
cavity,  and  there  is  too  much  danger  of  absorption  to  warrant 
us  in  using  it  in  intra-abdominal  operations.  As  a  caustic, 
saturated  solutions  are  injected  into  fistulous  tracts:  e.g.^ 
fistulae  of  the  withers,  "quittor"  and  "poll  evil,"  to  destroy 
their  so-called  pyogenic  membranes,  and  hasten  repair. 
There  is  not  much  danger  of  absorption  when  used  in  this  way. 

Corrosive  sublimate  is  very  useful  as  a  parasiticide,  in 
destroying  lice,  ringworm  and  the  fungus  of  favus,  in  solu- 
tion (1-500)  on  the  unbroken  skin.  It  also  relieves  itching 
in  pruritus,  prurigo  and  urticaria,  but  is  generally  inferior 
to  carbolic  acid  in  this  respect.  Bichloride  solutions  may 
be  used  in  the  septic  uterus  (after  removing  placental  or 
membranous  remains,  with  the  hands,  forceps  or  curette), 
in  the  strength  of  1-3000  or  1-5000.  Apart  from  the  body, 
corrosive  sublimate  in  solution  (1-500  or  1-1000)  is  one  of 
the  cheapest  and  most  efifective  disinfectants  for  premises 
infected  with  the  contagion  of  glanders,  anthrax,  etc.  The 
walls  and  floors  of  stables  (after  thorough  cleansing  and 
washing  with  soft  soap  and  boiling  water),  clothing  and  all 
paraphernalia,  not  metallic,  can  be  disinfected  by  washing 
or  soaking  in  solutions  of  bichloride.  Before  operations, 
the  operative  field  should  be  sterilized  by  scrubbing  v/ith 
green  soap  and  then  with  corrosive  sublimate  solution, 
after  the  hair  has  been  shaved  from  the  part.  The  opera- 
tor's hands  can  be  also  sterilized  to  advantage  with  a 
solution  (1-1000)  of  corrosive  sublimate.  During  an 
operation  irrigation  with  corrosive  (1-3000)  solution,  or 
boiled  normal  salt  solution  is  commonly  practised.  In 
epizootic  abortion,  in  addition  to  quarantining  the  diseased 
animals,  their  discharges  and  the  premises  should  be 
disinfected,  and  both  the  well  and  sick  female  animals 
should  be  washed  twice  daily  about  the  genital  regions  w^ith 
a  solution  of  corrosive  sublimate.     Yellow  wash,  made  hj 


202  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

the  addition  of  30  gr.  of  mercuric  bichloride  to  1  pint  of 
lime  water,  is  sometimes  employed  as  a  stimulant  applica- 
tion in  chronic  eczema,  and  to  relieve  itching.  It  contains 
the  yellow  oxide  of  mercury.  In  purulent  conjunctivitis, 
frequent  irrigation  with  a  1-1000  solution  of  corrosive  subli- 
mate is  of  the  greatest  service. 

Internal, — Corrosive  sublimate  is  of  value  in  minute 
doses  as  a  blood  tonic,  and  is  recommended  as  an  antiphlo- 
gistic agent  in  diminishing  fibrinous  exudation  in  inflamma- 
tory diseases  of  serous  membranes,  as  pleuritis,  meningitis, 
and  arthritis.  It  is  probably  inferior  to  calomel  for  this 
purpose.  We  at  least  know  that  calomel  is  an  efficient 
cathartic  in  inflammatory  diseases. 

Mercuric  bichloride  is  employed  as  an  intestinal  anti- 
septic and  hepatic  stimulant,  in  the  treatment  of  dysentery 
and  diarrhoea  with  mucous  or  vile  smelling  discharges.  In 
these  conditions,  irrigation  of  the  rectam  with  a  1-5000 
solution  is  of  advantage.  This  solution  should  be  drained 
off  through  the  rectal  tube  and  followed  by  an  injection  of 
plain  boiled  water. 

Administration. — Corrosive  sublimate  is  given  in  the 
form  of  a  pill  or  ball.  If  exhibited  in  solution  to  the  large 
animals,  it  must  be  diluted  with  2  quarts  of  water. 

HYDRARGYRI   CHLORIDUM   MITE. 

External, — Calomel  is  of  use  in  chronic  eczema  when 
applied  over  small  patches  in  its  pure  state,  or  as  "  black 
wash."  The  latter  consists  of  one  drachm  of  calomel  in  one 
pint  of  lime  water,  forming  the  black  oxide  of  mercury,  and 
is  a  very  efficient  preparation  to  relieve  itching  and  promote 
recovery  in  chronic  eczema,  by  mild  stimulation.  Calomel 
is  of  benefit  when  blown  into  the  eye  once  or  twice  a  week, 
stimulating  and  hastening  absorption  of  opacities  of  the 
cornea  following  keratitis.  It  is  the  best  agent  to  arrest 
thrush  when  worked  up  into  the  commisure  of  the  hoof, 
between  the  frog  and  the  bars,  and  retained  in  place  by 
oakum  packing. 


HYDBARGYRI  CHLORIDUM   MITE  203 

Internal. — Calomel  is  a  purgative,  intestinal  antiseptic, 
chologogue,  diuretic  and  alterative.  It  is  also  used  for  its 
remote  antiphlogistic  effects.  It  is  particularly  adapted  to 
dogs,  and  is  given  in  a  single  dose,  or  often,  to  better  advan- 
tage, in  half-grain  doses,  repeated  every  two  hours  till 
purgation  occurs.  For  diarrhoea  or  vomiting  in  dogs, 
calomel  is  useful  in  removing  the  source  of  irritation,  in 
being  antiseptic  and  easily  borne  by  an  irritable  stomach. 
Calomel  is  partially  transformed,  by  the  alkaline  secretions 
of  the  bowels,  into  the  mercurous  oxide,  and  it  is  to  this  salt 
that  its  purgative  action  is  due.  Combination  with  sodium 
bicarbonate  assists  in  this  transformation,  and  is  commonly 
practised.  The  administration  of  calomel  should  be  followed 
by  oil,  salines  or  other  cathartics,  if  purgation  does  not 
occur  within  twenty-four  hours  after  its  ingestion,  otherwise 
mercurialism  may  occur. 

In  heptogenous  jaundice,  with  light-colored  faeces,  owing 
to  hepatic  congestion,  gastro-duodenitis  or  constipation, 
calomel  is  a  valuable  remedy  for  dogs,  followed  by  the  use 
of  nitro-muriatic  acid.  In  the  jaundice  occurring  as  a  form 
of  influenza  in  horses,  nitro-muriatic  acid  is  more  effective. 
Calomel  is  one  of  the  best  remedies  for  the  treatment  of 
dysentery,  unless  there  is  great  weakness.  It  should  be 
continued  in  repeated  small  doses  till  the  character  of  the 
discharge  changes.  Foals  and  calves,  with  indigestion  and 
diarrhoea,  may  be  given  calomel  to  advantage  to  remove  the 
source  of  irritation  in  the  digestive  tract.  Calomel  must  be 
combined  with  a  small  dose  of  aloes,  or  with  linseed  oil,  to 
form  an  effective  cathartic  for  the  horse.  As  aloes  acts  on 
the  large,  and  calomel  on  the  small,  intestines,  the  above 
combination  secures  a  general  purgative  influence. 

Cattle  are  given  calomel,  followed  by  the  administration 
of  salines,  to  produce  free  catharsis.  As  a  remedy  for  round 
worms,  I  to  5  grain  each  of  santonin  and  calomel,  with  5 
grains  of  sugar  of  milk,  are  administered  to  dogs  four  times, 
at  half  hour  intervals,  and  followed  by  castor  oil.  Liimbri- 
coid  worms  in  the  horse,  may  be  treated  by  conjoining  2 


204  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

drachms  of  santonin  with  1  drachm  of  calomel,  given  in  the 
form  of  a  ball  to  the  fasting  animal,  and  repeated  once  on 
the  following  day  if  necessary.  Calomel  was  formerly  very 
frequently  used,  and  is  occasionally  prescribed  to  this  day 
in  the  treatment  of  pleuritis,  meningitis,  peritonitis,  pericar- 
ditis, and  iritis,  for  its  antiphlogistic  and  alterative  action  in 
diminishing  inflammatory  exudations. 

At  the  present  time  these  actions  are  very  much  ques- 
tioned, and  any  beneficial  effects  accruing  from  the  use  of 
calomel  in  inflammatory  diseases  are  now  ascribed  to  its 
action  as  a  purgative  and  intestinal  antiseptic  in  destroying 
and  eliminating  toxins  from  the  bowels. 

Calomel  is  of  value  in  inflammatory  diseases  when  given 
at  the  onset  of  the  attack.  In  dropsy  (ascites  of  dogs), 
calomel  sometimes  acts  as  a  useful  diuretic,  when  combined 
with  digitalis  and  squill  in  pill  form. 

Administration. — Calomel  is  given  to  cattle  on  the  tongue 
or  in  gruel ;  to  horses  in  ball,  on  the  food,  or  on  the  tongue ; 
to  dogs  in  pill,  tablet  or  on  the  tongue.  The  compound 
cathartic  pill  is  a  good  purgative  preparation  for  occasional 
use.  Two  to  three  pills  for  large  dogs ;  one  to  two  pills  for 
smaller  animals. 

HYDRARGYRI   lODIDUM   RUBRUM. 

The  red  mercuric  iodide  is  a  favorite  remedy  in 
veterinary  practice.  It  causes  absorption  of  morbid  exuda- 
tions through  its  counter-irritant,  local  absorbent  and  alter- 
ative effect,  in  combining  the  action  of  iodine  and  mercury. 
It  is  employed  with  8  to  10  or  12  parts  of  lard  or  vaseline, 
and  is  of  value  in  the  treatment  of  periostitis  with  osseous 
deposits,  especially  for  splints.  Spavin  and  ringbone  are 
treated  with  red  iodide  of  mercury  alone,  but  are  generally 
cured  more  effectively  by  rest,  firing,  and  blistering.  The 
red  iodide  of  mercury  ointment  is  also  of  use  for  enlarged 
glands,  chronic  swelling  about  tendons,  joints  or  bursae; 
and  applied  about  the  throat  in  chronic  laryngitis  and 
"  roaring."     The  ointment  is  rubbed  on  splints  every  third 


ARSENUM  205 

day,  or  until  vesication  is  produced,  and  the  hair  begins  to 
drop  out,  when  its  use  is  stopped  for  a  time.  Like  other 
mercury  preparations,  the  red  iodide  must  not  be  employed 
in  large  quantities  over  an  extensive  surface.  It  is  much 
more  irritant  locally  than  blue  ointment. 

UNGUENTUM   HYDRARGYRI  NITRATIS. 

Citrine  ointment  is  similar  to  unguentum  hydrargyri 
ammoniati  (white  precipitate  ointment),  but  more  power- 
ful, and  should  be  diluted  with  equal  parts  of  lard.  These 
preparations  are  used  for  their  stimulant  action  in  granular 
lids,  chronic  eczema,  psoriasis,  pityriasis,  and  for  their 
anti-parasitic  effect  in  ringworm. 


SECTION  yii. 

Arsenum. 

f  Arsenic  is  not  used  in  the  metallic  state  in  medicine. ) 

AciDUM  Arsenosum.     Arsenous  Acid,     AsjOj.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Acidum  arseniosum,  B.  P.;  acidum  arsenic- 
osum,  P.  G. ;  arsenic  trioxide,  white  arsenic,  arsenicum 
album,  arsenic,  arsenious  anhydrid,  E.;  acid  arsenieux, 
arsenic  blanc,  fleurs  d'arsenic,  Fr.;  arsenicsaure,  weisser 
arsenic,  G. 

Derivation. — Arsenical  ores  are  roasted  and  purified  by 
sublimation. 

Properties. — A  heavy  solid,  occurring  either  as  an  opaque, 
white  powder,  or  in  irregular  masses  of  two  varieties;  the  one 
amorphous,  transparent  and  colorless,  like  glass  ;  the  other 
crystalline,  opaque,  or  white,  resembling  porcelain.  Both 
are  odorless  and  tasteless.  The  glassy  variety  dissolves 
slowly  in  30  parts  of  water ;  the  porcelain-like  in  80  parts 
of  water.  Arsenous  acid  is  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol,  but 
soluble  in  glycerin,  hydrochloric  acid  and  solutions  of  the 


206  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

alkali  hydrates  and  carbonates.  When  heated  to  424°  F., 
arsenous    acid   is   completely  volatilized   without  melting. 

Incompatibles. — Lime  water,  salts  of  iron  and  magnesia. 

Dose.—B..,  gr.i.-v.  (.06-.3) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.12) ; 
Dv  g»'-A-TV  (.002-.006.) 

Usual  dose  for  H.,  gr.ii.-iii.  (.12-.2). 

Liquor  Potash  Arsenitis.     Solution  of  Potassium  Arsenite. 

(U.  S.  P.) 
{FotvJer's  Solution.) 

Synonym, — Liquor  arsenicalis,  B.  P.;  liquor  kali  arseni- 
cosi,  P.G.;  solutio  arsenicalis  Fowleri,  kali  arsenicosiim 
solutum,  arsenical  solution,  E.;  liqueur  arsenicale  de  Fowler, 
Fr.;  Fowlers'che  tropfen,  G.  Arsenous  acid,  10  gm.;  potas- 
sium bicarbonate,  20  gm.;  compound  tincture  of  lavender, 
30  Cc;  distilled  water  to  make  1000  Cc.  Strength,  1  part 
of  arsenous  acid  in  100. 

Dose.—Bi.  &  C,  3ii.-5i.  (8.-30.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3i.-ii. 
(4.-8.) ;  D.,  1ll^ii.-x.  (.12-.6). 

Usual  dose  for  H.,  §  ss.  (15.). 

Liquor  Acidi  Arsenosi.     Solution  of  Arsenous  Acid. 
(U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Liquor  arsenici  hydrochloricus,  B.P.;  hydro- 
chloric solution  of  arsenic,  E.;  liqueur  arsenicale  hydrochlo- 
rique,  Fr.;  chlorarsenik-losung,  G. 

Arsenous  acid,  10  gm.;  diluted  hydrochloric  acid,  50  Cc; 
distilled  water,  a  sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000  Cc. 
Strength,  1  part  of  arsenous  acid  in  100. 

Dose. — Same  as  Fowler's  solution. 

action  of  arsenical  compounds. 

External. — Arsenous  acid  acts  as  a  caustic  on  raw  sur- 
faces and  mucous  membranes.  It  produces  considerable 
pain,  and   may   lead   to  poisoning.     In  frogs  poisoned  by 


ACTION  OF  ARSENICAL  COMPOUNDS  207 

arsenic  the  epidermis  peels  off  very  readily,  owing  to 
degeneration  of  its  lower  layers. 

Internal. — Digestive  Tract, — Arsenic,  when  given  in 
minute  doses,  improves  the  appetite,  and  increases  both  the 
motion  and  secretions  of  the  stomach  and  duodenum.  In 
larger  amounts,  arsenic  is  an  irritant,  causing  loss  of  appetite, 
nausea  and  digestive  disturbance.  In  toxic  doses  arsenic 
produces  gastro-enteritis. 

Blood. — Arsenic  is  absorbed  into  the  blood,  and  in  some 
forms  of  anaemia  increases  notably  the  number  of  red 
corpuscles,  and  to  some  extent  the  haemoglobin. 

Circulation. — It  is  said  that  arsenic  stimulates  the  pulse 
rate  when  given  in  minute  doses.  In  large  doses  it  has  a 
local  depressing  action  on  the  heart — and  probably  a  local 
action  on  the  vessels — lowering  the  force  and  frequency  of 
the  heart  and  reducing  blood  pressure.  The  nerve  endings, 
ganglia,  and  muscle  of  the  heart  are  alike  paralyzed,  and 
this  action  takes  place  when  the  heart  is  removed  from  the 
body. 

Respiration. — In  small  doses  arsenic  stimulates  the 
respiratory  centre,  and  probably  the  peripheral  vagi ;  whereas 
in  lethal  amounts  it  is  said  to  paralyze  only  the  latter. 

Nervous  System. — The  nervous  apparatus  is  powerfully 
influenced  by  arsenic.  Toxic  doses  cause  paralysis  of  the 
spinal  tracts,  in  frogs,  with  loss  of  sensation,  motion,  and 
reflex  action.  There  is  conflicting  testimony  relating  to 
which  centres  succumb  first.  The  nerve  trunks  are  affected 
in  the  higher  animals.  There  is  peripheral  neuritis  and 
trophic  changes  occur.  Medicinal  doses  of  arsenic  are 
stimulant  to  the  nervous  system  generally. 

Metabolism.  —  Therapeutic  doses  probably  diminish 
tissue  change  and  the  elimination  of  urea  and  carbonic 
dioxide.  Large  doses,  on  the  other  hand,  increase  metabolic 
processes  and  the  escape  of  nitrogenous  waste. 

Elimination. — Arsenic  is  eliminated  slowly  by  most 
channels.  It  is  found  in  the  urine,  faeces,  milk,  sweat,  tears 
and  saliva.     It  exists  in,  and  can  be  recovered  from,  the 


208  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

bodies  of  animals  years  after  their  death  from  toxic  amounts 
of  arsenic. 

Summary. — Arsenic  is  unfortunately  one  of  the  drugs 
whose  physiological  action — so  far  as  we  kuow  it — does  not 
throw  any  light,  in  many  instances,  upon  its  therapeutic 
effects.  In  altering  the  condition  of  the  patient  for  the 
better,  in  some  diseases,  it  is  described  by  that  vague  and 
otherwise  indefinable  term,  "  alterative." 

Toxicology. — The  lower  animals,  as  the  horse  and  cow, 
are  proportionately  not  nearly  so  susceptible  to  the  poisonous 
effects  of  arsenic  as  the  human  subject.  Two  grains  is  the 
smallest  fatal  dose  reported  in  man.  Amounts  larger  than 
a  drachm  appear  to  be  required  to  cause  death  in  the  horse, 
although  much  smaller  quantities  have  produced  death  when 
repeated  a  number  of  times.  Mild  toxic  action  is  seen 
following  therapeutic  doses  of  arsenic  when  the  physiological 
limit  is  reached.  This  condition  is  characterized  by  loss  of 
appetite  (nausea  and  vomiting  in  dogs),  watery  discharge 
from  the  nose  and  eyes,  pnffiness  of  the  eyelids,  indigestion 
with  mild  colic,  and  diarrhoea.  The  pulse  may  be  accelerated 
and  harder  than  normal. 

Acute  Poisoning  begins  with  bilious,  mucous,  or  bloody 
purging  and  colic.  There  is  vomiting  in  dogs.  Thirst  is 
excessive  ;  the  urine  is  high-colored  and  albuminous ;  the 
pulse  is  feeble,  small  and  frequent ;  the  respiration  is  rapid 
and  difficult  from  abdominal  pain  ;  the  extremities  are  cold, 
and  there  is  great  weakness  of  the  limbs.  Collapse,  with 
convulsions  and  coma,  often  close  the  scene  in  from  five  to 
twenty  hours  to  three  days. 

A  sub-acute  form  of  poisoning  occasionally  occurs  after 
a  remission  from  the  acute  attack,  only  to  be  followed  by 
death  in  from  two  to  five  days.  In  the  interim,  cutaneous 
eruptions  may  appear.  Rarely,  death  takes  place  within 
an  hour  or  two,  in  coma,  collapse  or  convulsions. 

Chronic  Poisoning,  such  as  is  seen  in  the  human  subject 
living  in  apartments  furnished  with  arsenical  wall  paper  or 
fabrics,  or  in  those  working  in  arsenic,  is  rarely  observed 


ACTION   OF  ARSENICAL   COMPOUNDS  209 

in  animals  and  would  not  be  likely  to  occur  save  in  those 
living  in  the  immediate  vicinity  of  chemical  works.  In  this 
condition  there  are  symptoms  similar  to  those  noted  above 
as  occurring  in  the  milder  form  of  arsenic  poisoning,  together 
with  gradual  loss  of  strength  and  flesh,  local  paralysis  or 
paraplegia,  and  anaesthesia.  Fatty  degeneration  of  the  liver, 
kidneys,  heart,  stomach  and  muscles,  in  cases  of  chronic 
arsenical  poisoning,  is  found  after  death. 

The  post  mortem  changes  observed  after  acute  poisoning, 
are  as  follows  :  The  gastric  mucous  membrane,  especially 
the  villous  portion  in  horses,  is  swollen,  softened  and  covered 
with  patches  of  a  deep  crimson  or  dark  brown  color.  There 
is  rarely  ulceration.  The  upper  portion  of  the  small 
intestines,  and  in  horses  sometimes  the  whole  of  the  intes- 
tinal tract,  is  similarly  affected  with  that  of  .the  stomach. 
There  is  generally  a  wide-spread  fatty  degeneration  of  the 
internal  organs  and  muscles. 

The  treatment  of  acute  poisoning  depends  mainly  upon 
the  use  of  the  oflScial  freshly  prepared  arsenic  antidote 
(ferri  oxidum  hydratum  cum  magnesia)  in  large  quantities. 
If  this  can  not  be  obtained,  an  antidote  can  be  prepared  by 
precipitating  Monsel's  Solution,  or  the  tincture  of  the 
chloride  of  iron,  with  sodium  bicarbonate  or  ammonia. 
Dialyzed  iron  may  be  precipitated  with  an  alkali.  In  either 
case  the  precipitate  should  be  washed  in  a  filter  of  muslin 
and  given  in  large  amounts.  If  vomiting  has  not  occurred, 
zinc  sulphate  should  be  given,  or  the  stomach  pump  or 
siphon  resorted  to,  and  the  stomach  well  washed  out.  The 
after-treatment  is  carried  out  with  castor  oil,  demulcents, 
opium  and  external  heat.  Sweet  spirit  of  nitre  is  to  be 
prescribed,  with  considerable  water,  to  flush  out  the  kidneys. 

Uses  External. — A  paste  containing  1  part  each  of 
arsenous  acid  and  gum  arabic,  with  5  parts  of  water,  is 
used  to  destroy  warts  and  morbid  growths.  Arsenous  acid, 
diluted  with  5  parts  of  lard,  may  be  employed  to  slough  out 
fistulous  tracts.  In  any  case,  there  is  danger  of  poisoning 
through  absorption,  if  a  sufficient  amount  of  arsenic  is  used  ; 


210  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

but,  on  the  other  hand,  the  danger  is  slight  if  a  large  enongh 
quantity  is  applied  to  cause  rapid  sloughing.  Arsenic  is  the 
principal  constituent  of  so-called  "  sheep-dips  "  employed 
to  kill  ticks  and  other  parasites  in  the  wool.  Finlay  Dun 
recommends  2J  lbs.  of  arsenous  acid  with  an  equal 
amount  of  pearl  ash,  soft  soap,  and  sulphur,  dissolved  in  10 
gallons  of  boiling  water  and  added  to  90  gallons  of  cold 
water.  This  quantity  will  suffice  for  dipping  100  sheep. 
The  sheep  are  submerged,  except  their  heads,  for  a  few 
seconds,  and  placed  on  a  grating  to  drain  into  a  tub,  from 
which  the  water  flows  back  into  the  first  receptacle.  The 
excess  of  water  in  their  fleeces  is  squeezed  out  with  the 
hands  and  a  scraper.  Sheep  have  been  poisoned  after 
dipping,  by  eating  grass  and  fodder  on  which  they  have 
drained  ;  therefore  the  sheep  should  always  be  kept  on  clean 
floors  or  yards  in  the  open  air  and  sunlight  until  they  have 
become  thoroughly  dry.  Sulpho-naphtol  (1-100)  or  creolin 
are  preferable  for  this  purpose,  since  they  are  as  effective 
and  safer. 

Uses  Internal. — Arsenic  is  of  the  greatest  service  in  the 
treatment  of  indigestion  in  horses  associated  with  malnutri- 
tion and  staring  coat.  In  this  condition,  arsenous  acid  is 
often  combined  with  sodium  bicarbonate  and  nux  vomica, 
and  may  be  given  in  powder  on  the  food.  It  is  also  of  value 
in  atonic  diarrhoea,  and  is  used  in  both  the  serous  and 
dysenteric  varieties.  In  diminishing  tissue  change,  and  in 
acting  as  a  blood  tonic,  arsenic  is  believed  to  improve  the 
condition,  endurance,  and  wind  in  horses,  and  is  popularly 
prescribed  by  dealers  and  others. 

The  classical  case  of  the  arsenic-eating  peasants  of 
Styria  seems  to  corroborate  this  view.  These  people  appear 
to  be  very  robust  and  healthy.  Five  grains  of  arsenic  was 
given  experimentally  to  one  of  them  without  producing  any 
untoward  effect.  Arsenic  seems  to  influence  favorably 
diseased  mucous  membranes  of  the  respiratory  tract,  to 
improve  their  nutrition,  and  hasten  absorption  and  repair 
in  diseases  of  the   air   passages.     Coryza,  ozoena,  chronic 


USES    OF   ARSENICAL    COMPOUNDS  211 

cough,  asthma,  emphysema  and  "  broken  wind  "  are  greatly 
benefitted  by  a  course  of  arsenic,  and  in  chronic  conditions 
the  treatment  should  be  sustained  for  months  in  small 
doses. 

"Thick  wind  "  and  convalescence  from  acute  bronchitis, 
pneumonia  or  influenza  are  favorably  influenced  by  arsenic. 
Arsenic  is  one  of  the  best  agents  we  can  prescribe  in  general 
debility  and  anaemia  and  may  be  conjoined  with  bitters  or 
iron. 

In  dry,  scaly  skin  diseases,  arsenic  is  the  most  successful 
internal  remedy,  but  should  not  be  prescribed  in  moist  con- 
ditions associated  with  a  proliferation  of  new  cells,  or 
exudate  of  serum  or  other  liquid.  It  is  particularly  useful 
in  psoriasis ;  also  in  chronic  squamous,  or  papular  eczema, 
lichen,  acne  and  chronic  urticaria,  when  given  for  a  con- 
siderable length  of  time  in  small  doses. 

In  the  human  subject,  arsenic  is  almost  a  specific  in 
chorea,  but  does  not  seem  to  yield  such  good  results  in  that 
disease  in  dogs,  usually  associated  with  distemper.  Fowler's 
Solution  should  be  given  to  dogs  with  chorea,  in  doses  of 
two  or  three  drops  three  times  daily,  and  gradually  increased 
till  the  physiological  limit  is  reached.  Large  single  doses 
of  arsenous  acid  ( 3  ss.)  are  sometimes  given  with  calomel 
( 3  i.)  and  aloes  ( 3  iv.),  in  a  ball  to  horses  to  kill  round 
worms. 

Administration. — Arsenic  is  given  to  horses  as  Fowler's 
Solution,  or  arsenous  acid,  on  the  food.  If  continued  for  a 
long  time,  arsenic  must  be  prescribed  in  small  doses  once 
daily,  or  in  larger  doses  once  in  two  or  three  days.  Arsenic 
is  exhibited  to  dogs  in  tablet  or  pill,  and  as  Fowler's 
Solution.  The  administration  of  Fowler's  Solution 
secures  more  rapid  and  accurate  results  than  that  of  white 
arsenic. 


212  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Antimonium. 
(The  meted  antimony  is  not  iised  in  medicine.) 

Antimonh  Sulphidum.     Antimony  Sulphide.     Sh^S^. 
(TJ.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Antimony  trisulphide,  E.;. stibium  oxy datum ^ 
oxydum  antimonicum  Yel  stibicum ;  oxyde  d'antimoine,  Fr.j. 
antimonoxyd,  G. 

Derivation. — Native  antimony  sulphide,  purified  by 
fusion,  and  as  free  from  arsenic  as  possible. 

Properties. — Steel-gray  masses  of  a  metallic  lustre  and  a 
striated,  crystalline  fracture,  forming  a  black,  or  grayish- 
black,  lustreless  powder ;  without  odor  or  taste,  and  per- 
manent in  the  air.     Insoluble  in  alcohol  or  water. 

Antimonh  Sulphidum  Purificatum.    Purified  Antimony 
Sulphide.     SbA-     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Antimonium  nigrum  purificatum,  B.P.;  puri- 
fied antimony  trisulphide,  E. 

Derivation. — Antimony  sulphide,  100  ;  purified  by  macer- 
ation in  ammonia  water,  50  ;  washing  and  drying.     U.  S.  P. 

Properties. — A  heavy,  grayish-black,  lustreless  powder  ; 
without  odor  or  taste,  and  permanent  in  the  air.  Insoluble 
in  water  or  alcohol. 

Dose. — The  antimony  sulphides  should  not  be  used  in 
medicine.  Dose  would  be  twice  or  thrice  that  of  tartar 
emetic. 

Antimonium  Sulphuratum.     Sulphurated  Antimony. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Kermes  Mineral.  Chiefly  antimony  trisul- 
phide (SbaSg),  with  a  very  small  amount  of  antimony 
trioxide. 

Derivation. — Boil  purified  antimony  sulphide,  100,  with 
solution  of  soda,  1200.     (U.  S.  P.)    Sb.S,  -f  4  Na  O  H  =  Na 


ANTIMONY    OXIDE  213 

SbOa  4-  NagSbSg  f  2  HoO.  Strain  and  add  sulphuric  acid 
to  the  hot  liquor  as  long  as  precipitation  occurs.  NaSbOj  + 
Na3SbS3  +  2  H,SO,  =  8hA  +  2  Na,SO,  +  2  H,0. 

Properties.  —  An  amorphous,  reddish-brown  powder, 
becoming  lighter  in  color  on  exposure  to  the  light,  and 
having  neither  odor  or  taste.     Insoluble  in  water  or  alcohol. 

Golden  Sulphur.     (Non-official.) 

A  yellow,  insoluble  powder,  is  another  compound  of 
antimony,  consisting  of  a  mixture  of  antimony  trisulphide 
and  trioxide. 

Dose. — Neither  kermes  mineral  nor  golden  sulphur  are 
suitable  for  internal  use.  The  dose  would  be  twice  or 
thrice  that  of  tartar  emetic. 

Antimonii  Oxidum.     Antimony  Oxide.     Sb^Oj.     (U.  S.  P.) 
{Antimony  Trioxide.) 

Derivation. — Pour  a  solution  of  chloride  of  antimony 
into  water.  The  oxychloride  of  antimony  is  precipitated. 
Sb  CI3  +  H,0  =  Sb  O  01  +  2  H  01. 

The  precipitate  is  treated  with  carbonate  of  sodium, 
and  the  result  is  washed  and  dried.  2  Sb  O  01  +  Nag  0  0^ 
=  Sb,  O3  +  2  Na  01  +  0  O,. 

Properties. — A  heavy,  grayish-white  powder,  without 
odor  or  taste,  and  permanent  in  the  air.  Almost  insoluble 
in  water  and  insoluble  in  alcohol. 

Dose. — Would  be  twice  that  of  tartar  emetic,  but  the 
oxide  is  inappropriate  for  internal  use. 

Antimonii  et  Potassii  Tartkas.     Antimony  and  Potassium 
Tartrate.     2  K  (Sbo)  0,H,Oe  +  H,0.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Antimonium  tartaratum,  B.P.;  tartar  emetic, 
tartarated  antimony,  tartarus  emeticus,  stibio-kali  tartaricum, 
E.;  antimonii  potassio-tartras,  antimonium  tartarizatum, 
tartarus  stibiatus,  P.G.;  tartrate  de  potasse  et  d'antimoine 
emetique,  tartre  stibie,  Fr.;  brechweinstein,  G. 


x»t  TliS 

"cnsriVERSiTT 


214  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Derivation^ — Make  a  paste  with  cream  of  tartar,  anti- 
uiony  trioxide,  and  water.  Set  aside  24  hours,  boil  in  water 
15  minutes  and  crystallize.  2  K  HC.HA  +  ^\\0,  =  2  K 
(SbO)  C,H,Oe  -f  hJo. 

Properties. — Colorless,  transparent  crystals  of  the  rhom- 
bic system,  becomiug  opaque  and  white  on  exposure  to  the 
air  ;  or  a  white,  granular  powder,  without  odor,  and  having 
a  sweet,  afterwards  disagreeable,  metallic  taste.  Soluble  in 
17  parts  of  water ;  insoluble  in  alcohol. 

Dose. — H.  &  C,  3ii--iv.  (8.-15.);  emetic,  pigs,  gr.iv.-x. 
(.24-.6);  D.,  gr.^Vi-  (.006-.03) ;  emetic,  D.,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.12). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Vinum  Antimonii.     Wine  of  Antimony.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Synonym.— V'mwm.  antimoniale,  B.P. 

Antimony  and  potassium  tartrate,  4  gm.;  boiling  distilled  water, 
65  Cc;  alcohol,  150  Co.;  white  wine  to  make  1000  Cc.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Dose  for  Dogs. — ttlv,- 3  i.  (.3-4.). 

Sympus  ScillcB  Compositus.    Compound  Syrup  of  Squill.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Synonym. — Hive  syrup.    Fluid  extract  of  squill,  80  Cc;  fluid  extract 
of  senega,  80  Cc. ;  antimony  and  potassium  tartrate,  2  gm. ;  precipitated 
calcium  phosphate,  10  gm.;  sugar,  750  gm.;  water  to  make  1000  Cc. 
Dose  for  Dog. — tti,v.-xxx.  (.3-2.) 

ACTION   OF  ANTIMONH   ET   P0TAS8II   TARTRAS. 

Tartar  emetic  is  the  only  antimony  compound  suitable 
for  internal  use.  The  sulphide  and  oxide  of  antimony  are 
insoluble,  save  in  the  hydrochloric  acid  of  the  gastric  juice, 
and  are  not  so  certain  or  reliable  in  their  action  as  tartar 
emetic.  Kermes  mineral  and  golden  sulphur,  containing 
variable  amounts  of  antimony  trisulphide  and  trioxide,  are 
even  more  uncertain  and  unreliable  than  antimony  sulphide 
or  oxide. 

External. — Tartar  emetic  is  irritant,  and  when  rubbed 
into  the  skin  produces  a  pustular  eruption  and  often  slough- 
ing and  destruction  of  tissue. 

Internal. — Stomach  and  Bowels. — Tartar  emetic  is  a 
gastro-intestinal  irritant,  causing  salivation  and  nausea  in 


ACTION  OF  ANTIMONY  AND  POTASSIUM  TARTRATE    215 

small  doses,  vomitiDg  and  diarrhoea  in  large  quantities ; 
while  toxic  amounts  are  followed  by  vomiting  (in  carnivora), 
serous  or  bloody  purging,  great  depression  of  the  cir- 
culation and  respiration,  muscular  weakness,  collapse  and 
death. 

Uneasiness,  nausea,  colic  and  death  have  been  reported 
in  horses  only  after  enormous  doses  of  tartar  emetic  by  the 
mouth.  The  horse,  and  ruminants  are  comparatively  insus- 
ceptible to  the  action  of  tartar  emetic.  The  writer  has 
observed  a  cow,  however,  in  which  nausea  and  actual  vomi- 
tion  occurred,  following  a  therapeutic  dose  of  kermes 
mineral  in  electuary. 

Tartar  emetic  is  a  powerful  but  slowly  acting  emetic 
(attended  with  a  good  deal  of  nausea)  in  dogs.  Tartar 
emetic  has  been  recovered  in  the  first  vomitus  followiug  its 
intravenous  injection.  It  also  expels  the  contents  of  a 
bladder  artificially  replacing  the  normal  stomach.  These 
results  go  to  show  that  tartar  emetic  acts  both  as  a  specific 
emetic  upon  the  vomiting  centre,  and  locally  as  an  emetic 
upon  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  stomach.  Tartar  emetic 
is  eliminated  in  great  part  by  the  mucous  membrane  of  the 
alimentary  canal. 

Circulation. — The  principal  action  of  antimony  is  exerted 
upon  the  heart  and  vessels.  The  heart  muscle  is  weakened 
and  vascular  tension  markedly  lowered  by  large  doses  of 
tartar  emetic.  This  action  depends  upon  the  influence  of 
antimony  on  the  cardiac  muscle  itself,  and  possibly  upon  the 
vagus  nerve-endings  in  the  heart.  Whether  the  action  upon 
vascular  tension  is  due  to  a  centric  or  peripheral  vasomotor 
depression,  or  is  owing  to  relaxation  of  the  vessel  walls 
themselves,  remains  undecided.  The  pulse  is  reduced  in 
force  and  frequency  by  large  doses  of  tartar  emetic.  Follow- 
ing lethal  amounts,  the  heart  becomes  flabby  and  relaxed, 
and  death  occurs  in  diastolic  arrest.  The  preceding  remarks 
apply  only  to  the  action  of  tartar  emetic  upon  carnivora. 

Antimony  was  formerly  a  very  popular  drug  when 
general  depressant  and  depletant  treatment  was  in  vogue, 


216  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

because  of  its  powerfully  depressing  action  upon  the  circu- 
lation. 

Respiratory  Organs. — Small  doses  of  antimony  increase 
secretion  of  bronchial  mucus.  Toxic  amounts  weaken  the 
respiratory  movement  by  lowering  the  functional  activity  of 
the  respiratory  and  vagus  centres,  and  cause  a  copious 
outpouring  of  serous  and  mucous  secretion  into  the 
bronchial  tubes,  which  has  the  effect  of  drowning  an 
animal  in  his  own  secretions.  This  action  is  only  seen 
in  horses  after  intravenous  injection  of  toxic  quantities  of 
tartar  emetic. 

Nervous  System. — Large  doses  of  antimony  depress  the 
functional  activity  of  the  brain  and  sensory  tract  of  the 
spinal  cord.  Larger  doses  produce  loss  of  reflex  action  and 
anaesthesia,  owing  to  the  influence  of  antimony  upon  the 
sensory  side  of  the  cord  ;  while  in  toxic  amounts,  antimony 
is  a  general  paralyzant  to  all  the  spinal  centres  and  to  the 
motor  nerves.  This  action  applies  to  man  and  carnivora, 
and  not  to  horses  or  ruminants. 

Muscles. — In  carnivora  and  man,  antimony  lessens 
muscular  strength  and  relaxes  spasm  through  its  depressing 
action  upon  the  motor  nerves  and  muscular  tissue. 

Elimination. — Antimony  is  mainly  eliminated  by  the 
bowels,  but  also  by  the  kidneys,  bronchial  mucous  membrane, 
and  other  channels. 

Toddcology. — The  symptoms  are  those  described  under 
"  Action  on  the  Stomach  and  Bowels."  The  pulse  is  first 
slow  and  then  rapid  and  weak.  The  faecal  discharges  in 
man  are  copious  and  of  the  rice  water  appearance  character- 
istic of  Asiatic  cholera.  If  vomiting  is  not  free,  zinc  sulphate 
should  be  given,  or  the  stomach  washed  out.  Tannic  acid 
should  be  administered  as  a  chemical  antidote,  together 
with  the  use  of  external  heat,  alcohol,  strychnine  and  mor- 
phine subcutaneously,  and  demulcents  by  the  mouth. 

Uses  External. — Tartar  emetic  is  used  in  ointment,  in 
the  strength  of  1-4,  over  chronically  enlarged  and  rheumatic 
joints  of  cattle.     It  is  also  employed  over  the  sides  of  the 


ACTION  OF  ANTIMONY  AND  POTASSIUM  TARTRATE    217 

chest  in  cattle,  to  produce  counter-irritation  and  pustulation 
in  the  strength  of  1  part  to  12  of  lard. 

Internal. — The  therapeutic  value  of  tartar  emetic  is 
limited  mainly  to  canine  practice.  Antimony  is  still  pre- 
scribed largely  by  the  Germans  as  a  general  and  circulatory 
depressant  and  expectorant  for  horses.  General  depressant, 
or  anti-stimulant  treatment  is  not  ordinarily  indicated  in 
inflammatory  affections,  and  even  if  it  were,  antimony  does 
not  exert  such  an  action  in  any  considerable  degree  upon 
horses  or  ruminants. 

Aconite  is  a  much  more  valuable  and  efficient  circulatory 
depressant  than  antimony  for  the  horse.  There  are  three 
indications  for  antimony  in  canine  practice  :  1st,  as  an 
emetic;  2nd,  as  a  general  depressant  in  inflammatory 
diseases  and  in  strong  patients ;  3rd,  as  an  ex.pectorant  in 
acute  bronchitis.  The  first  indication  is  generally  attained 
more  promptly  and  safely  by  zinc  sulphate.  The  second 
and  third  indications  may  be  combined  by  prescribing, 
antimony  in  the  first,  or  dry  stage  of  acute  bronchitis  in 
dogs,  in  the  form  of  hive  syrup.     For  example : 

Syr.  Scillfle  Co. 

Sp't's  ^ther.  Nitrosi aa  ^  ss. 

M.       Liq.  Ammon.  Acetatis ad  1  iv. 

S.        Teaspoonful  every  2  hours. 

Antimony  may  be  employed  as  an  emetic  in  bronchitis 
to  clear  the  stomach  and  upper  part  of  the  respiratory  tract 
of  secretions,  and  to  reduce  the  force  and  frequency  of  the 
heart.  Ipecac  is,  however,  a  better  and  safer  agent  for  this 
purpose,  and  antimony  is  generally  counter-indicated  in  the 
second,  or  exudative  stage  of  bronchitis. 

The  Germans  prescribe  tartar  emetic  very  commonly 
to  horses  as  a  parasiticide  against  round  worms  and  tape 
worms.  Four  or  five  drachms  are  given  in  aqueous  solution 
to  the  fasting  animal,  and  followed  by  the  administration  of 
a  dose  of  oil. 


218  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

SECTION  VIII. 
Phosphorus. 

Phosphorus.     Phosphorus.     P.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. —Digest  bones  in  sulphuric  acid,  or  treat 
bone  ash  with  sulphuric  acid  ;  filter  and  evaporate.  Ca, 
(POJ,  (bone  ash)  +  2  H,S  O,  =  Ca  H,  (POJ,  (acid  calcium 
phosphate)  +  2  Ca  So^. 

Heat  acid  calcium  phosphate,  charcoal,  and  sand  to- 
gether, and  distil  over  phosphorus  into  water. 

Heat  breaks  up  Ca  H^lPO^^j  into  Ca  (POJj  (calcium 
metaphosphate)  +  2  HjO. 

Then :  2  Ca  (PO3),  +  2  SiO,  +  10  C  =  P,  +  2  Ca  Si  O, 
-h  10  C  O. 

Properties. — A  translucent,  nearly  colorless  solid,  of  a 
waxy  lustre,  having  at  ordinary  temperature  about  the  con- 
sistency of  bees'  wax.  By  long  keeping,  the  surface  becomes 
red  and  occasionally  black.  It  has  a  distinctive  but  dis- 
agreeable odor  and  taste.  It  should  not  be  tasted  except  in 
a  state  of  great  dilution.  When  exposed  to  the  air  it  emits 
white  fumes  which  are  luminous  in  the  dark,  and  have  an 
odor  somewhat  resembling  garlic.  On  long  exposure  to  the 
air,  it  takes  fire  spontaneously.  Insoluble  in  water,  or 
nearly  so  ;  soluble  in  350  parts  of  alcohol,  in  80  parts  of  ether, 
in  about  50  parts  of  any  fatty  oil,  and  very  soluble  in  chloro- 
form and  carbon  disulphide.  Besides  the  official  form  there 
are  several  other  allotropic  forms  of  phosphorus,  including 
the  red,  or  amorphous,  the  black,  and  the  crystallized 
metallic  phosphorus. 

Red  phosphorus  is  non-poisonous,  and  although  it  has 
been  commonly  taught  that  it  is  inert,  some  recent  experi- 
ments have  tended  to  show  that  its  therapeutic  value  is 
equal  to  that  of  the  yellow  phosphorus. 

Dose.—K.,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.12) ;  C,  gr.ii.-iii.  (.12-.18) ;  Sh.  & 
Sw.,  gr-xi o-A  (.0006-003);  D.,  gr.-^-^  (.0006-.003). 


PHOSPHORUS    PREPARATIONS  219 

PREPARATIONS. 

Oleum  Phosphor atum.     Phosphorated  Oil.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Phosphorus,  1  gm.;  expressed  oil  of  almond  and  ether,  of  each  a 
sufficient  quantity  to  make  100  gm.     (U.  S.  P. ) 

Properties.— A  clear,  yellowish  liquid,  having  the  odor  of  phosphorus 
and  ether.  The  ether  in  this  preparation  evaporates  in  time  and  the 
strength  is  proportionately,  and  perhaps  dangerously,  increased. 

Dose.— H.,   3ii.-iii.  (8.-12.);  D.,  mi. -v.  (.06-.3). 

Spiritus  Phosphori.     Spirit  of  Phosphorus.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Phosphorus,  1.2  gm.;  absolute  alcohol,  a  sufficient  quantity  to  make 
1000  Cc.     Teaspoonful  =  ^V  o^  a  grain. 
Dose.— D.,  TTivii.-xxx.  (.42-2.). 

A  saturated  solution  of  phosphorus  in  alcohol  may  be  made  by  dis- 
solving .312  parts  of  phosphorus  in  100  parts  of  absolute  alcohol. 
.     Dose.— H.,  IssA.  (15.-30.). 

ACTION  OF  PHOSPHORUS. 

Internal. — All  that  is  certainly  known  of  phosphorus 
concerns  its  effect  upon  the  growth  of  bone.  It  has  been 
proven  experimentally  that  phosphorus  stimulates  the 
formation  of  bone,  making  the  spongy  tissue  in  the  long  and 
short  bones  thicker,  and  the  compact  tissue  denser.  If  lime 
is  abstracted  from  the  food,  the  new  growth  of  bone  is  of  a 
gelatinous  consistency. 

Phosphate  of  lime  increases  more  markedly  the  earthy 
constituents  of  bone.  Phosphorus  exists  to  a  considerable 
extent  as  a  component  part  of  nerve  tissue,  as  well  as  bone, 
and  is  to  a  less  degree  a  constituent  of  other  tissues.  It  is 
thought  that  phosphorus  acts  as  a  stimulant  to  the  nutrition 
of  those  tissues  of  which  it  is  a  constituent  part.  In  man, 
large  therapeutic  doses  of  phosphorus  frequently  occasion 
sexual  excitement,  increased  force  and  rapidity  of  the  pulse, 
mental  exhilaration  and  capacity  for  work.  There  is 
abundant  clinical  evidence  to  indicate  that  phosphorus  is  a 
nerve  stimulant  and  tonic,  but  whether  it  is  a  general 
diffusible  stimulant  is  not  so  certain.  The  therapeutic 
action  of  phosphorus  differs  decidedly  from  its  toxic  effect. 
Phosphorus  enters  the  blood  in  part  as  phosphorus,  in  the 


220  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

form  of  vapor,  and  Id  solution  with  fatty  matters  obtained 
in  the  digestive  tract.  It  has  everywhere  a  tendency  to 
unite  with  oxygen,  both  within  and  without  the  body.  It  is 
probably  converted  in  part  in  the  intestines  and  blood 
vessels  into  phosphoretted  hydrogen,  and  becomes  further 
oxidized  into  phosphoric  acid,  so  that  after  the  ingestion  of 
phosphorus,  phosphoretted  hydrogen,  phosphoric  acid  and 
phosphorus  may  be  found  in  the  blood.  Neither  phosphoric 
acid,  the  phosphates  nor  hypophosphites  represent  in  any 
sense  the  action  of  phosphorus.  Phosphoric  acid  is  said  to 
stimulate  gastric  digestion  and  resembles  in  action  the 
phosphates,  to  which,  however,  it  is  therapeutically  inferior. 
The  hypophosphites  are  probably  converted  in  the  digestive 
tract  into  phosphates.  The  phosphates  generally  differ 
from  phosphorus  in  not  being  so  stimulant  to  the  nervous 
system,  but  serve  as  restoratives  in  supplying  the  constitu- 
ents essential  for  the  well-being  of  the  various  tissues. 
Phosphate  of  iron  is  a  constituent  of  the  blood  corpuscles, 
sodium  phosphate  of  blood  plasma,  potassium  phosphate 
of  nerve  tissue,  magnesium  phosphate  of  muscular  tissue, 
and  calcium  phosphate  of  bone.  They  tend  to  promote 
growth  and  nutrition  of  these  tissues. 

Toxicology. — The  symptoms  of  poisoning  do  not  ordin- 
arily appear  until  some  hours  after  ingestion  of  toxic  doses. 
Then  abdominal  pain,  nausea  and  vomiting  (in  those  animals 
in  which  it  is  possible)  and  purging  occur.  The  breath, 
vomitus  and  faecal  discharges  may  be  luminous,  and  have 
the  odor  of  phosphorus.  There  is  fever,  anorexia  and  thirst. 
This  condition  is  followed  by  an  intermission  in  which  the 
patient  appears  to  be  recovering,  only  to  be  succeeded  by 
jaundice,  nervous  symptoms,  as  delirium,  coma  and  con- 
vulsions, and  death.  The  urine  rarely  becomes  albuminous 
in  animals,  but  contains  leucin  and  tyrosin. 

Phosphorus  is  largely  eliminated  in  the  urine  as  hypo- 
phosphoric  acid.  There  is  general  fatty  degeneration  of  the 
viscera  and  muscles.  The  blood  is  disorganized,  and  there 
are   widespread  ecchymoses.     Jaundice  follows  closure  of 


ACTION   OF  PHOSPHORUS  221 

the  common,  or  hepatic  duct,  or  smaller  biliary  tubules,  and 
disorganization  of  the  blood.  There  is  rapid  atrophy  of 
the  liver,  and  phosphorus  poisoning  in  man  is  often  indis- 
tinguishable during  life  from  acute  yellow  atrophy  of  the 
liver.  Chronic  poisoning,  attended  with  necrosis  of  the  jaw 
and  other  symptoms,  and  occurring  among  workers  in  phos- 
phorus, is  unlikely  to  occur  in  the  lower  animals.  Acute 
poisoning  is  treated  by  emptying  the  stomach  with  a  stomach 
tube  or  copper  sulphate ;  the  latter  forming  an  insoluble 
phosphide  of  copper.  Cathartics  should  also  be  administered. 
Permanganate  of  potash  or  hydrogen  dioxide  should  be  em- 
ployed as  antidotes,  for  their  oxidizing  action.  Old  turpen- 
tine is  usually  recommended  as  the  antidote,  but  only  the 
French  variety  is  of  any  value,  and  that  is  generally  unob- 
tainable. Demulcents  and  opium  are  in  order  after  evacuant 
and  antidotal  treatment  has  been  carried  out,  but  oil  should 
never  be  given  in  phosphorus  poisoning,  as  it  assists  the 
solution  and  absorption  of  the  poison. 

Uses. — Phosphorus  is  indicated  as  a  stimulant  to  the 
growth  of  bone  in  rhacitis  and  osteomalacia,  as  a  nerve 
stimulant  and  tonic  in  conditions  of  nervous  exhaustion  and 
impaired  vitality,  due  to  excessive  activity  of  the  sexual 
organs  or  otherwise.  It  is  used  empirically  in  treatment 
of  boils,  acne,  and  psoriasis,  and  has  been  prescribed 
with  alleged  advantage  as  a  general  stimulant  in  pneu-' 
monia. 

Administration. — Phosphorus  may  be  given  in  pill  or 
ball,  with  cacao  butter,  or  in  the  official  preparations  to 
dogs,  and  in  the  saturated  alcoholic  solutions  to  horses. 
Phosphide  of  zinc  represents  the  action  of  phosphorus, 
and  yields  phosphoretted  hydrogen  in  its  decomposition  in 
the  body.  It  may  be  given  to  dogs  (gr.^V)  ^^  ^li®  form  of 
pills. 


222  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

SECTION   IX. 
Chlorine. 

Chlorum.     Chlorine.     CI. 
The  gas  is  not  official. 

Aqua  Chlori.     Chlorine  water.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — ^^Liquor  chlori,  B.P.;  chlorum  solutum,  aqua 
oxymuriatica,  solution  of  chlorine,  E.;  aqua  chlorata,  P.G.; 
eau  chloree,  chlore  liquide,  Fr.;  chlor-wasser,  G. 

An  aqueous  solution  of  chlorine  (CI),  containing  at 
least  0.4  per  cent,  of  the  gas. 

Derivation. — Generate  chlorine  gas  with  hydrochloric 
acid,  35 ;  water,  25 ;  and  manganese  dioxide,  10.  Heat  in 
flask  and  pass  gas  into  water. 

4  H  CI  +  Mn  O,  =  CI,  +  2  H,0  +  MnCl,. 

Properties. — A  clear,  greenish-yellow  liquid,  having  the 
suffocating  odor  and  disagreeable  taste  of  chlorine,  and 
leaving  no  residue  on  evaporation.  Incompatible  with  salts 
of  silver  and  lead.    The  preparation  deteriorates  on  keeping. 

Dose. — Not  used  internally. 

The  B.  P.  preparation  contains  0.6  per  cent,  of  chlorine. 

Calx  Chlorata.     Chlorinated  Lime.     Ca  ClaO,,  Ca  CI,. 
(U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Calx  chlorinata,  B.  P.;  calcaria  chlorata,  P. 
G.;  chloris  calcicus,  chloruretum  calcis,  calcii  hypochloris, 
chloride  of  lime,  hypochloride  of  calcium,  bleaching  powder, 
E.;  chlorure  de  chaux,  poudre  de  Tennant,  ou  de  Knox,  Fr.; 
chlorkalk,  bleichkalk,  G. 

A  preparation  often  improperly  called  "  chloride  of 
lime."  It  should  contain  not  less  than  35  per  cent,  of  avail- 
able chlorine. 

Derivation. — Pass  chlorine  gas  over  calcium   hydrate, 


SOLUTION  OF  CHLOEINATED   SODA  223 

when  chlorinated  lime,  a  mixture  of  calcium  chloride  and 
hypochlorite,  results.  2  Ca  O.H^  +  2  Cl^  =  Ca  Cl^O^,  Ca 
CI2  +  2  H2O.  It  may  also  be  regarded  as  a  mixture  of  lime 
and  chlorine.     2  Ca  O.H^  +  2  Cl^  =  2  Ca  0, 2  Cl^  +  2  H,0. 

Properties. — A  white,  or  grayish-white  granular  powder, 
exhaling  the  odor  of  hypochlorous  acid,  having  a  repulsive 
saline  taste,  and  becoming  moist  and  gradually  decompos- 
ing on  exposure  to  air.  In  water  or  in  alcohol  it  is  only  par- 
tially soluble.  It  evolves  chlorine  on  exposure  to  the  air  or 
on  addition  of  an  acid.  Chlorinated  lime  possesses  an 
alkaline  reaction  and  bleaching  properties. , 

Dose. — Only  of  value  externally. 

PREPARATION. 

Liquor  Calcis  Chlorinatce.     Solution  of  Chlorinated  Lime.     (B.  P.) 
Contains  1  lb.  to  the  gallon  of  water,  or  13  grains  of  chlorine  gas 
to  the  ounce. 

Liquor  Sodje  Chlorate.    Solution  of  Chlorinated  Soda. 

(U.S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Liquor  sodse  chlorinatse,  B.  P.;  Labarraque's 
solution,  E.  An  aqueous  solution  of  several  chlorine  com- 
pounds of  sodium,  containing  at  least  2.6  per  cent.,  by 
weight,  of  available  chlorine. 

Derivation. — A  solution  of  sodium  carbonate,  150;  chlo- 
rinated lime,  75;  in  water  to  make  1,000. 

Properties. — A  clear,  pale,  greenish  liquid,  having  a 
faint  odor  of  chlorine  and  a  disagreeably  alkaline  taste. 

Dose. — Only  of  value  externally. 

ACTION  AND   USES   OF  CHLORINE. 

Chlorine  gas,  in  the  presence  of  organic  matter  and 
moisture,  unites  with  the  hydrogen  of  water  and  sets  free 
nascent  oxygen.  When  chlorine  comes  in  contact  with  sul- 
phuretted hydrogen,  it  removes  and  destroys  the  compound. 
Chlorine  is  thus  a  powerful  oxidizing  disinfectaut  agent 
and  deodorizer.  One-quarter  of  1  per  cent,  of  chlorine  in 
solution  is  an  effective  germicide.     When  chlorine  gas  is 


224  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

inhaled  undiluted,  it  is  an  irritant  to  the  respiratory  tract, 
producing  sometinies  spasm  of  the  glottis,  or  severe  bron- 
chitis, and  at  other  times  a  condition  of  narcotism,  with 
death  from  paralysis  of  the  respiratory  center.  In  dilute 
form  it  is  stimulant,  antiseptic,  and  deodorant  in  relation  to 
the  body.  Chlorine  gas  may  be  generated  from  salt  and 
black  oxide  of  manganese,  1  part  each;  with  commercial 
sulphuric  acid  and  water,  2  parts  each. 

Bacteria  are  killed  after  three  hours'  exposure  to  a 
moist  atmosphere  containing  1  per  cent,  of  chlorine  gas. 
Chlorine  may  be  used  to  advantage  in  this  manner  as  a  sub- 
stitute for  sulphur  fumigation.  Chlorine  water  is  employed, 
well  diluted,  for  the  same  purposes  and  with  the  same 
results  as  the  solution  of  chlorinated  soda.  Chlorinated 
lime  varies  much  in  strength.  To  be  of  any  value  it  should 
be  so  irritating  to  the  eyes  that  it  cannot  be  held  near  the 
face.  It  owes  its  medicinal  value  to  the  hypochlorite  of 
lime  which  it  contains.  If  the  compound  is  very  moist,  it  is 
because  calcium  chloride  preponderates.  Chlorinated  lime 
is  often  employed  as  a  deodorizer,  standing  about  premises 
in  vessels,  but  is  of  no  practical  value  unless  it  comes 
directly  in  contact  with  bacteria  or  sulphuretted  compounds 
which  it  is  desirable  to  destroy.  It  is  the  best  and  cheapest 
germ  destroyer  we  possess  for  disinfecting  premises  and 
other  appurtenances,  apart  from  the  body,  as  walls  and 
floors  of  buildings,  faecal  and  other  discharges,  sewers, 
privies  and  cesspools.  A  10  per  cent,  solution  is  to  be  em- 
ployed on  the  floors,  walls  and  other  parts  of  buildings. 
The  pure  compound  may  be  mixed  with  manure  and  dis- 
charges. Even  a  1  per  cent,  solution  is  germicidal,  and  may 
be  employed  to  wash  blankets,  harness  and  other  parapher- 
nalia. It  is  said  not  to  harm  woolen  or  cotton  fabrics,  in 
the  latter  solution.  One  or  two  pounds  of  chlorinated  lime 
is  a  useful  disinfectant  when  put  in  privy  vaults  once  a 
week. 

One  or  two  ounces  of  chlorinated  lime  will  render 
drinkable  65  gallons  of  putrid,  bad  smelling  water,  after  a 


BROMINE  225 

few  hours  have  elapsed  for  precipitation  following  the  use 
of  the  compound.  Upon  the  body,  a  2  or  3  per  cent, 
solution  of  chlorinated  lime  is  employed  as  a  stimulant, 
deodorant,  and  antiseptic,  for  decubitus,  foul-smelling  and 
gangrenous  sores,  severe  burns  and  indolent  ulcers.  It  is 
used  in  10  per  cent,  solution  as  a  parasiticide  in  ringworm 
and  scabies.  A  1  per  cent,  solution  forms  a  valuable  wash  in 
ulcerative  stomatitis.  Chlorinated  lime  may  be  prescribed, 
with  an  equal  amount  of  lard,  upon  ulcers  when  a  stimulat- 
ing action  is  desired.  Its  internal  administration  is  undesir- 
able. The  solution  of  chlorinated  soda  is  a  slight  caustic, 
deodorizer  and  antiseptic  preparation  on  indolent,  sloughing, 
foul-smelling  surfaces.  It  may  be  prescribed  in  sore  throat, 
or  ozoena,  as  a  spray,  or  injected  into  the  uterus,  vagina  or 
rectum.    It  is  commonly  diluted  with  8  to  10  parts  of  water. 

Bromine. 
Bromum.     Bromine.    Br. 

Derivation, — From  seaweed  and  mineral  springs. 

Properties. — Heavy,  dark,  brownish-red  liquid,  volatiliz- 
ing with  the  production  of  an  irritating  vapor.  Soluble  in 
30  parts  of  water,  and  readily  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether. 
Of  no  value  in  veterinary  medicine. 

PoTASSii  Bromidum.     Potassium  Bromide.     K  Br. 
(U.  S.  &B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Kalium  bromatum,  P.G.;  bromkalium,  G. 

Derivation. — Obtained  from  liquor  potassse,  bromine, 
and  charcoal  by  the  same  process  described  in  making 
potassium  iodide  (p.  232). 

Properties.  —  Colorless,  or  white,  cubical  crystals,  or 
granules  ;  odorless,  and  having  a  pungent,  saline  taste. 
Permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble  in  about  1.6  parts  of  water 
and  in  200  parts  of  alcohol. 


226  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

Dose.—K.   &  C,    5i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,    3ii.-iv. 
(8.-15.);D.,gr.v.-3i.(.3-4). 


SoDH  Bromidum.     Sodium  Bromide.     Na  Br. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Syncmym. — Bromure  de  sodium,  Fr.;  bromnatrium,  G. 

Derivation,  —  Similar  to  potassium  bromide.  Liquor 
sodse  is  used  instead  of  liquor  potassai. 

Properties. — Colorless,  or  white,  cubical  crystals,  or  a 
white,  granular  powder;  odorless,  and  having  a  saline, 
slightly  bitter  taste.  From  air  the  salt  attracts  moisture 
without  deliquescing.  Soluble  in  1.2  parts  of  water,  and  in 
13  parts  of  alcohol. 

Dose, — Same  as  potassium  bromide. 

ACTION  OF  THE  BROMIDES. 

External. — None. 

Internal, — In  a  large,  single  dose,  the  bromides  cause  in 
horses  muscular  weakness,  dulness  and  staggering  gait. 
The  pulse  is  weakened  and  the  respiration  slowed.  The 
urine  is  increased  in  quantity  and  sexual  desire  diminished. 
Bromism  may  be  produced  in  man,  or  the  lower  animals,  by 
the  continuous  administration  of  the  bromides.  This  condi- 
tion is  characterized  by  general  weakness  and  unsteady  gait, 
mental  dulness,  indigestion,  cutaneous  anaesthesia,  loss  of 
sexual  power,  and  occasionally  an  acneform  eruption. 
Death  has  never  been  caused  in  man  by  the  bromides. 

Nervous  System.  — The  bromides  are  essentially  depres- 
sant to  nerve  tissue.  Therapeutically,  this  depressing  action 
is  seen  particularly  in  relation  to  the  motor  centres  of  the 
cerebral  cortex,  and  in  lessening  reflex  action.  The  whole 
nervous  system  is  depressed,  but  the  motor  tract  in  the 
brain  and  the  sensory  nerves  are  the  first  to  succumb  to  the 
influence  of  the  bromides.  Intellection  is  clouded,  and  dul- 
ness and  mental  apathy  are  observed  in  man  after  large 


ACTION  OF  THE  BROMIDES  227 

amounts.  Reflex  action  is  diminished  owing  to  the  depres- 
sing effect  of  the  bromides  upon  the  afferent  nerves  and 
reflex  centres.  Finally,  with  the  continuous  administration 
of  large  doses  the  motor  area  of  the  spinal  cord,  the  motor 
nerves,  and  muscles  fall  under  the  depressing  action  of  these 
agents. 

Circulation. — Potassium  bromide  is  a  powerful  depres- 
sant to  the  heart  in  toxic  doses.  In  the  smaller  animals, 
therapeutic  amounts  exert  no  appreciable  effect  upon  the 
circulation.  The  depressing  action  of  potassium  bromide 
upon  the  heart  is  due  partly  to  potassium  and  partly  to 
bromine.  The  other  bromides  are  less  depressant,  and  it  is 
safer  to  administer  sodium  bromide  when  large  doses  of 
these  salts  are  desirable.  The  old  idea  that  the  beneficial 
action  of  the  bromides,  in  relieving  nervous  excitability  and 
in  causing  sleep,  was  due  to  the  production  of  vasomotor 
spasm  and  cerebral  anaemia,  is  now  exploded. 

Temperature. — The  temperature  falls,  following  the 
action  of  toxic  amounts  of  the  bromides,  owing  to  vasomotor 
paralysis,  vascular  dilatation,  and  consequent  loss  of  heat. 

Kidneys. — Both  the  amount  of  urine  and  the  quantity 
of  urea  are  increased  by  large  doses  of  bromides. 

Sexual  Organs. — The  bromides  diminish  sexual  desire 
and  power.  In  so  doing  they  either  act  upon  the  spinal 
■centres  or  lessen  peripheral  sensibility  of  the  genito-urinary 
tract. 

Metabolism. — Carbonic  dioxide  elimination  is  notably 
decreased  by  the  action  of  large  doses  of  potassium  bromide, 
while  nitrogenous  elimination  from  the  kidneys  is  increased. 
It  is  therefore  doubtful  whether  tissue  change  is  increased 
or  diminished. 

Elimination. — The  bromides  are  eliminated  by  all  chan- 
nels and  are  found  in  the  sweat,  urine,  milk,  saliva,  intestinal 
secretions,  etc. 

Uses  Internal. — The  bromides,  being  particularly  useful 
in  the  treatment  of  functional  nervous  diseases,  do  not  pos- 
sess nearly  the  value  in  veterinary  medicine  that  they  have 


228  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

in  human  practice.  Moreover,  their  use  is  limited  mainly 
to  canine  disorders,  as  bromides  have  little  influence  upon 
diseases  of  horses. 

Bromides  are  especially  indicated  in  irritation  of  the 
motor  area  of  the  cerebral  cortex  (convulsions),  in  general 
nervous  excitability,  and  in  conditions  due  to  exalted  reflex 
action  in  dogs. 

The  bromides  are  indeed  the  best  agents  we  can  use  to 
cure  fits  or  convulsions  in  dogs.  They  should  be  combined 
with  chloral  and  given,  if  necessary,  per  rectum.  The 
bromides  are  useful  in  canine  chorea,  in  connection  with 
Fowler's  Solution.  With  chloral  the  bromides  are  antidotes 
to  strychnine  poisoning.  Sexual  excitement  in  dogs  may 
be  allayed  by  the  bromides.  The  bromides  are  occasionally 
of  value  in  reflex  cough,  iialpitation  of  the  heart,  and  asthma, 
but  are  inferior  to  other  agents  in  these  disorders. 

Potassium  bromide  is  recommended  in  the  treatment  of 
tetanus  of  the  horse,  but  opium,  belladona  and  cannabis 
indica  are  generally  more  effectual.  If  the  bromides  are 
used  they  should  be  given  with  chloral. 

Iodine. 

loDUM.     Iodine.     I.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — lodinum,  U.  S.  P.  1870;  iodum,  P.  G.;  iode,. 
Fr.;  jod.,  G. 

Derivation.— lodimQ  is  a  non-metallic  element,  existing 
in  combination  in  the  animal,  vegetable  and  mineral  king- 
doms. It  occurs  in  seaweed,  from  which  it  is  obtained  by 
distillation.  It  is  also  mined  in  the  form  of  iodates  and 
iodides. 

Properties. — Iodine  occurs  in  heavy,  bluish-black,  dry 
and  friable  rhombic  plates,  having  a  metallic  lustre,  a 
distinctive  odor,  and  sharp,  acid  taste.  It  is  soluble  in 
5,000  parts  of  water,  and  in  10  parts  of  alcohol ;  very 
soluble  in  ether  and  in  solutions  of  potassium  iodide. 
Iodine    volatilizes    on    heating,  with   the  formation  of  a 


IODINE  22*9 

a  purple  vapor.  With  starch,  iodine  forms  an  insoluble 
blue  compound. 

Dose.—lI.  &  C,  3ss.-i.  (2.-4.);  Sh.  <fe  Sw.,  gr.x.-xx- 
(.6-1.3). 

Not  often  used  in  solid  state. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Liquor  lodi  Compositus.     Compound  Solution  of  Iodine, 
(Lugol's  Solution.)     (U.  S.  P.) 

Iodine,  5;  potassium  iodide,  10;  water  to  make  100.     (1-20). 
Dose.— H.  &  C,    3ii-iv.   (8.-15.)    D.,   mii-x.   (.12-.6).      Should   be 
given  in  one  quart  of  water  to  the  larger  animals. 

Tinctura  lodi,  (U.S. P.) 

Iodine,  70;  alcohol  to  make  1,000. 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  3ii-iv.  (8.-15.);  D.  mi.-v.  (.06-.3). 

Tinctura  lodi.     (B.  P.) 
Dose. — Same  as  U.  S.  P.  tincture. 

UnguentiLm  lodi.     1-25.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Too  weak  for  most  veterinary  purposes. 

Action  External, — Iodine  is  an  irritant  upon  the  skin 
and  mucous  membranes.  The  yellow  stain  produced  by- 
iodine  may  be  removed  by  ammonia  water,  alkalies  and 
sodium  hyposulphite.  It  is  exceedingly  doubtful  whether 
iodine  is  absorbed  through  the  unbroken  skin,  but  it  is 
thought  to  have  a  special  resolvent  and  alterative  action 
over  and  above  that  of  other  counter  irritants.  Whether 
this  be  true  or  not,  its  easy  mode  of  application  makes  it  a 
very  convenient  irritant  for  local  uses. 

Action  Internal. — Iodine  produces  gastro-intestinal  irri- 
tation and  inflammation  in  large  doses;  and  in  toxic  quanti- 
ties induces  colic,  vomiting — in  animals  capable  of  the  act, 
— purging  and  salivation.  .  The  pulse  becomes  rapid  and 
weak;  there  is  often  suppression  of  urine,  and  occasionally 
nephritis.  Widespread  fatty  degeneration  has  been  found 
after  fatal  poisoning  in  the  lower  animals.  If  there  is  much 
starchy  ipaaterial  in  the   bowels,  the  faecal  discharges  may 


230  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

be  of  a  bluish  color.  Aphrodisiac  action  has  been  noted  in 
man,  following  small  doses  of  iodine.  The  treatment  of 
acute  poisoning  is  embraced  in  the  use  of  starch  by  the 
mouth,  or  raw  eggs,  external  heat ;  strychnine,  alcohol,  and 
atropine  subcutaneously.  Chronic  poisoning  by  iodine,  or 
iodism,  in  man,  commonly  causes  symptoms  analogous  to  a 
severe  cold  in  the  head,  with  pain  over  the  frontal  sinus, 
sore  thoat,  running  at  the  eyes  and  nose,  gastric  indigestion, 
together  with  an  acneform,  and  occasionally  purpuric,  or 
furuncular  eruption. 

These  more  frequent  symptoms  of  iodism  occur  as  well 
after  the  administration  of  potassium  iodide  as  after  that  of 
iodine,  but  other  rarer  effects,  such  as  wasting  of  the  testes 
and  mammary  glands,  and  nervous  disorders,  e.  ^.,  neuralgic 
pains  and  convulsions,  are  hardly  ever  observed  following 
the  use  of  potassium  iodide.  It  is  evident  that  the  physio- 
logical effects  of  iodine  and  potassium  iodide  are  somewhat 
different ;  and  clinical  experience  shows  that  the  therapeutic 
value  of  the  metalloid  differs  in  some  respects  from  that  of 
the  salt.  It  is  not  definitely  known  in  what  form  iodine 
exists  in  the  body,  after  its  ingestion,  although  it  is  usually 
taught  that  it  is  converted  into  an  iodidQ.  Both  iodine  and 
potassium  iodide  are  readily  absorbed  from  mucous  mem- 
branes, and  are  found  in  all  the  tissues  and  fluids  of  the 
body.  Iodine 'is  eliminated,  to  a  great  extent  as  an  iodide, 
probably  of  sodium,  by  the  usual  channels,  as  well  as  by  the 
mucous  membranes.  The  kidneys  eliminate  the  greater 
amount,  but  iodine  is  found  in  the  saliva  and  gastric  juice 
after  it  has  ceased  to  be  present  in  the  urine.  Experimeuts 
concerning  the  action  of  iodine  upon  the  kidneys  and  circu- 
lation, yield  conflicting  results,  although  the  nitrogenous 
elements  in  the  urine  usually  appear  to  be  increased  by  its 
administration. 

Uses  External. — Iodine  is  of  most  value  applied  exter- 
nally, or  locally,  while  potassium  iodide  is  administered 
internally  because  it  is  not  irritating  to  the  digestive  organs. 
Although  potassium  iodide  does  not  exactly  represent  the 


IODINE  231 

action  of  iodine,  yet  it  is  usually  preferable  for  the  reason 
just  stated.  Potassium  iodide  renders  iodine  soluble  and 
prevents  its  precipitation  in  fluids  within  and  without  the 
body;  it  is  therefore  combined  with  iodine,  when  concen- 
trated solutions  are  desirable.  Six  parts  of  potassium  iodide 
and  twelve  parts  of  iodine  are  added  to  one  hundred  parts 
of  water,  or  ointment,  to  make  a  suitable  counter-irritant 
preparation  for  the  horse.  A  useful  tincture  for  veterinary 
purposes  contains  15  parts  of  iodine  and  18  parts  of  potas- 
sium iodide  in  100  parts  of  alcohol.  Iodine  is  employed  in 
aqueous  and  alcoholic  solution,  or  in  ointment,  as  above, 
either  painted  upon  or  rubbed  into  the  skin  over  enlarged 
glands,  rheumatic  swellings  about  the  joints,  or  upon  the 
chest  in  chronic  pleuritis.  It  is  also  of  value  in  strains, 
bruises,  periostal  inflammation  and  muscular  rheumatism. 
In  the  horse,  severe  sprains  and  inflammation  of  joints., 
bones,  and  periosteum  are  treated  more  satisfactorily  by 
blistering  agents.  Iodine  is  a  valuable  disinfectant  and 
parasiticide,  particularly  in  ringworm  and  favus  in  dogs, 
when  the  tincture  is  applied  locally.  Iodine  is  applied 
externally,  in  the  form  of  the  tincture,  on  patches  of  chronic 
mange,  eczema,  and  psoriasis. 

Iodine  is  often  recommended  for  erysipelas,  but  is  infe- 
rior to  ichthyol  for  this  purpose.  Iodine  is  injected  into 
joints,  synovial  sacs,  abscesses,  and  cavities  of  the  body  to 
promote  healing  through  its  antiseptic  and  irritant  action ; 
to  cause  adhesive  inflammation,  and  in  this  manner  to  close 
cavities  and  to  prevent  the  accumulation  of  fluids  in  them. 
The  ofticial  tincture  is  commonly  used  for  injections. 

The  tincture  of  iodine  may  be  injected  undiluted  directly 
into  the  substance  of  enlarged  glands,  in  amounts  varying 
from  15  to  30  drops,  to  assist  their  absorption.  If  the  tinc- 
ture is  injected  into  the  subcutaneous  tissue,  abscess  may 
ensue.  Ozoena  may  be  treated  to  advantage  by  irrigation 
with  a  solution  containing  one  drachm  of  the  tincture  of 
iodine  to  the  pint  of  normal  salt  solution.  In  inflammation 
of  the  upper  air  passages,  iodine  is  sometimes  beneficial  as 


232  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

a  stimulant  and  antiseptic  inhalation,  which  is  produced  by 
adding  one-half  a  drachm  of  iodine  to  the  pint  of  boiling 
water. 

Uses  Internal. — Iodine  is  thought  to  act  more  satisfac- 
torily than  potassium  iodide  in  the  treatment  of  diabetes- 
insipidus  or  polyuria  of  the  horse,  in  which  it  often  appears 
to  be  a  specific. 

Administraticm. — Iodine  may  be  combined  with  gentian 
and  iron  in  the  form  of  a  ball,  as  recommended  by  Finlay 
Dun,  or  better,  as  Lugol's  Solution,  which  is  less  irritating 
and  more  active. 

PoTASSii  loDiDUM.    Potassium  Iodide.     K  I.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Jodkalium,  G. 

Derivation. — Iodine  is  dissolved  in  hot  liquor  potassae. 
6I4-6KOH  =5KI+KI03  +  3  HA  The  evapo- 
rated residue  is  heated  .with  charcoal  to  remove  O  from  K  I 
O3  (Potassium  lodate).  KIO3  +  3  C  =  KI  -h  3  C  O.  The 
result  is  purified  by  crystallization. 

Properties.—  Potassium  iodide  occurs  in  colorless,  trans- 
parent or  translucent,  cubical  crystals ;  or  as  a  white,  gra- 
nular powder,  having  a  slight  odor  of  iodine,  and  a  bitter, 
saline  taste.  Permanent  in  dry  air,  but  slightly  delique- 
scent in  moist  air.  It  is  soluble  in  0.75  part  of  water;  in  18 
parts  of  alcohol,  and  2.5  parts  of  glycerin. 

i>ose.— H.,  3ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  C,  3vi.  (24);  Sh.  &  Sw., 
gr.xv.-xxx.  (1.-2.);  D.,  gr.ii.-x.  (.12.6). 

PREPARATION. 

Unguentum  Potassii  Iodide  (12  per  cent.)     (XJ.  S.  P.) 
Unimportant  in  veterinary  practice, 

SoDii  loDiDUM.     Sodium  Iodide.     Na  I.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.; 

Synonym. — lodure  de  sodium,  Fr.;  jodnatrum,  G. 
Derivation. — Made  from  sodium  hydrate  in  the  same 
manner  as  potassium  iodide. 


SYRUP  OF   HYDRIODIC   ACID  233 

Properties. — Occurs  in  colorless,  cubical  crystals,  or  as 
a  white,  crystalline  powder,  without  odor,  and  having  a 
bitter,  saline  taste.  Soluble  in  .6  part  of  water  and  in  3 
parts  of  alcohol. 

Dose, — Same  as  potassium  iodide. 

Syrupus  Acidi  Hydriodici.    Syrup  of  Hydriodic  Acid. 
(U.  S.  P.) 

Contains  1.3  per  cent,  of  H  I. 

Derivation. — Potassium  iodide,  13 ;  potassium  hypophos- 
phite,  1 ;  tartaric  acid,  12 ;  water,  15 ;  diluted  alcohol  and 
syrup,  of  each  a  sufficient  quantity  to  make  1,000. 

Properties. — A  colorless,  odorless,  syrupy  liquid,  of  a 
sweet,  acid  taste. 

Dose.—D.,  11]_xv.-  3  i.  (1.-4.) 

Action  External. — Potassium  iodide  is  not  absorbed  un- 
less rubbed  into  the  skin  with  fat,  and  is  not  a  local  irritant, 
and  therefore  posseses  very  little  value  as  an  external  appli- 
cation. 

Action  Internal. — Potassium  iodide  and  iodine  are  both 
described  by  that  unsatisfactory  term,  alterative.  In  certain 
diseases,  as  in  rheumatism,  iodine  and  the  iodides  alter 
nutrition  and  cause  absorption  of  exudates  in  some  unknown 
manner;  hence  the  term  alterative.  In  addition  to  this 
action,  potassium  iodide  forms  soluble  compounds  with  the 
lead  and  mercury  salts,  and  hastens  elimination  in  poison- 
ing by  these  metals.  It  is  often  taught  that  potassium 
iodide  liberates  iodine  in  the  tissues,  and  that  the  latter 
forms  soluble  compounds  with  albumin,  which  are  then 
readily  eliminated  ;  thus  explaining  the  effect  of  potassium 
iodide  in  aiding  resolution  of  morbid  exudation  and  inflam- 
matory thickenings.  This  action  has  yet  to  be  definitely 
determined,  and  we  do  not  know  certainly  how  either  iodine 
or  potassium  iodide  exert  their  influence  upon  nutrition. 
Potassium  iodide  is  absorbed  and  eliminated  within  a  few 
minutes. 


2^  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Uses  Internal. — Potassium  iodide  is  useful  in  causing  ab- 
sorption of  enlarged,  lymphatic  glands,  and  its  action  should 
be  assisted  by  the  application  of  iodine  or  red  mercuric 
iodide  externally.  Potassium  iodide,  in  small  doses,  dimin- 
ishes congestion  and  increases  the  fluidity  and  amount  of 
secretion  in  acute  laryngitis,  acute  and  subacute  bronchitis, 
and  appears  to  possess  an  alterative  action  in  improving  the 
condition  and  nutrition  of  the  bronchial  mucous  membranes. 
It  resembles  ammonium  chloride  in  the  latter  respect.  It  is 
also  of  value  in  chronic  bronchitis,  unassociated  with  copious 
secretion.  Chronic  pleuritis,  pericarditis,  and  ascites  are 
treated  with  potassium  iodide,  which  assists  absorption,  and 
occasionally  exerts  a  diuretic  effect.  Tardy  resolution  of 
pneumonic  consolidation  is  hastened  by  potassium  iodide. 
Endocarditis  with  cardiac  hypertrophy  is  said  to  be  bene- 
fited by  potassium  iodide  and  digitalis. 

Champignon,  or  scirrhus  cord  of  horses,  is  sometimes 
cured  by  the  sorbefacient  powers  of  potassium  iodide  in  full 
doses.  "  Roaring,  or  thick  wind,"  due  to  a  thickened  con- 
dition of  the  laryngeal  mucous  membrane,  or,  more  com- 
monly, to  pressure  of  enlarged  lymphatic  glands  upon  the 
recurrent  laryngeal  nerve, — when  of  recent  origin, — may  be 
cured  by  the  administration  of  potassium  iodide.  Potassium 
iodide  is  the  best  remedy  known  for  actinomycosis.  It 
should  be  given  to  the  larger  animals  in  doses  of  3  drachms 
daily,  or  in  the  same  dose  as  LugoVs  Solution.  Potassium 
iodide  is  one  of  the  many  remedies  prescribed  in  chronic 
rheumatism. 

Summary. — Iodine  and  potassium  iodide  resemble  one 
another  in  many  respects.  Iodine  is  a  local  irritant,  potas- 
sium iodide  is  not.  The  known  physiological  action  of 
potassium  iodide  and  iodine  does  not  explain  their  medi- 
cinal uses.  In  combating  certain  diseases,  in  an  inexpli- 
cable manner,  they  are  known  as  alteratives.  In  man,  iodine 
is  superior  to  potassium  iodide  in  the  treatmeut  of  scrofula. 
In  the  horse,  iodine  is  considered  of  more  value  in  the 
treatment  of  diabetes  insipidus ;    while  in  both  man  and 


IODOFORM  235 

the  lower  animals,  potassium  iodide  is  regarded  as  more 
valuable  in  chronic  rheumatism.  The  action  of  iodine  in 
benefiting  local  disorders,  when  applied  externally,  is  due 
to  its  counter  irritant  effect,  rather  than  to  absorption. 

Administration. — Potassium  iodide  is  given  in  solution. 
Sodium  iodide  and  syrup  of  hydriodic  acid  are  simply  sub- 
stitutes for  potassium  iodide. 

loDOFORMUM.     Iodoform.     C  H  I3.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation, — Alcohol,  potassium  carbonate,  iodine,  and 
water  are  heated  together.  C,HeO  +  2  KHCO3  +  81  =  2 
CHI3  +  2  KI  +  2  CO,  +  3  H,0. 

Iodoform  contains  over  90  per  cent,  of  iodine. 

Properties. — Small,  lemon-yellow,  lustreless  crystals  of 
the  hexagonal  system ;  having  a  peculiar  and  very  penetrat- 
ing persistent  odor,  somewhat  resembling  that  of  saffron 
and  iodine,  and  an  unpleasant  and  slightly  sweetish  and 
iodine-like  taste.  Very  slightly  soluble  in  water ;  soluble  in 
52  parts  of  alcohol,  and  in  5.2  parts  of  ether.  Very  soluble 
in  chloroform,  benzine,  fixed  and  volatile  oils. 

PREPARATION. 

Unguentum  lodoformi.     Ointment  of  Iodoform  (1-10). 
(U.  S.  &B.  P.) 

Action  External. — Iodoform  is  an  antiseptic,  local  anaes- 
thetic, stimulant,  protective,  and  dessicant  agent.  While 
many  forms  of  bacteria  will  grow  in  iodoform,  it  is  never- 
theless a  very  valuable  antiseptic.  The  antiseptic  properties 
seem  to  be  brought  out  by  its  decomposition  when  iodine  is 
set  free,  and  this  decomposition  goes  on  more  readily  iu  the 
presence  of  bacterial  growth — in  animal  tissues  and  fluids — 
attended  by  the  formation  of  toxins.  Iodoform  is  particu- 
larly useful  in  septic  and  suppurating  wounds.  When 
applied  over  extensive  surfaces  absorption  and  poisoning 
may  occur.  The  symptoms  of  iodoform  poisoning  are  most 
diverse.     The   writer  has  had  the  fortune,  or  misfortune, 


236  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

to  observe  a  case  of  fatal  poisoning  following  abdominal 
section  and  packing  of  the  pelvic  cavity  with  iodoform 
gauze. 

Symptoms  of  gastro-intestinal  irritation  are  seen  in 
poisoning  in  dogs,  as  vomiting  and  diarrhoea,  together  with 
nervous  symptoms,  as  convulsions,  stupor  and  sleep.  The 
pulse  may  be  very  rapid  or  infrequent ;  the  temperature 
high  or  normal.  Iodine  is  eliminated  in  the  urine  in  iodo- 
form poisoning  and  can  easily  be  discovered  by  the  starch 
test.  General  fatty  degeneration  of  the  internal  organs  is 
found  after  death.  The  local  dessicant  effect  of  iodoform 
on  raw  surfaces  assists  the  antiseptic  action,  and  the  local 
anaesthetic  properties  combine  to  make  iodoform  the  best 
antiseptic  powder  we  possess,  barring  the  odor. 

Action  Internal. — The  internal  action  of  iodoform  pos- 
sesses no  therapeutic  value.  Care  must  be  observed  to 
prevent  animals  licking  off  iodoform  from  the  surface  of  the 
body.     One  drachm  will  poison  a  dog  weighing  ten  pounds. 

Elimination. — Iodoform  is  eliminated  in  the  form  of 
iodine,  iodates,  and  iodides,  by  all  the  secretions. 

Uses  External.  —  Iodoform  is  chiefly  of  value  applied 
over  suppurating  and  septic  surfaces,  sores,  and  ulcers, 
where  it  hinders  the  growth  of  bacteria,  stimulates  un- 
healthy granulations,  relieves  pain,  possibly  neutralizes 
toxins,  and  certainly  produces  a  vile  odor.  For  this  reason 
one  of  its  substitutes  should  be  employed  when  an  antisep- 
tic powder  is  desirable  for  use  upon  dogs  living  in  or  about 
dwellings.  Iodoform  is  commonly  employed  in  its  purity. 
It  may  be  mixed  in  any  proportion  with  boric  acid,  or  with 
tannic  acid  (1-8),  for  its  astringent  effect.  Combined  with 
collodion  (1-15),  it  forms  a  useful  dressing  for  sealing  small 
wounds  or  abrasions  upon  the  hands.  The  anaesthetic 
action  of  iodoform  is  taken  advantage  of  to  relieve  pain  in 
fissure  of  the  rectum,  and  haemorrhoids.  Zuill  recommends 
the  following  combination  by  insufflation  in  the  early  stages 
of  inflammation  of  the  frontal  sinuses : 

Iodoform,  Magnesia,  Silver  Nitrate— equal  parts. 


lODOL  237 

Three  grains  may  be  used  in  suppositories  for  the 
smaller  animals.  Iodoform  may  cause  healing  in  abscess — 
injected  into  the  cavity  with  glycerin  —  (1-10),  using  2-4 
drachms  of  the  mixture  for  smaller  animals,  or  1  ounce  for 
the  larger  animals.  Iodoform  is  very  efficacious  in  the 
treatment  of  local  tubercular  lesions.  Iodoform  combined 
with  lard  or  oil  (1-10),  is  an  excellent  agent  for  burns  which 
are  not  so  extensive  as  to  endanger  the  patient  through 
absorption  and  iodoform  poisoning. 

loDOLUM.     lodol.     CJ,  NH. 
(Non-official.) 

Synonym. — Tetraiodopyrrol. 

Derivation. — Action  of  iodine  on  pyrrol  in  solution  in 
alcohol.     Contains  88.9  per  cent,  of  iodine. 

Properties. — Crystalline,  shining,  yellow-brown  powder. 
Tasteless  and  odorless.  Practically  insoluble  in  water;  sol- 
uble in  3  parts  of  alcohol,  and  in  ether  and  fatty  oils.  The 
surgical  use  of  iodol  has  led  to  poisoning  through  absorp- 
tion, but  the  latter  is  so  slow  that  the  danger  is  exceedingly 
slight.  Iodol  is  suitable  for  all  purposes  in  which  iodoform 
is  indicated.  It  is  too  expensive  for  general  use,  but  is 
preferable  for  application  to  dogs,  on  account  of  its  lack  of 
odor. 

Aristolum.     Aristol.     C^o  Hj,  O^  1^ 
(Non-official.) 

Synonym. — Dithymol  diiodide. 

Derivation.  — Made  by  the  action  of  thymol  in  a  solution 
of  sodium  hydroxide,  on  iodine,  dissolved  in  a  solution  of 
potassium  iodide.     Contains  45.8  per  cent,  of  iodine. 

Properties. — Light  reddish,  or  tawny-brown  crystalline 
powder.  Possesses  peculiar  iodine-like  odor,  and  is  insol- 
uble in  water,  soluble  in  ether,  fats,  and  slightly  soluble 
in  alcohol.      Aristol  is  inferior  as  an   antiseptic  to  either 


238  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

iodoform  or  iodol.  It  is  used  with  some  benefit  in  dry 
skin  diseases,  as  psoriasis,  in  powder  or  ointment.  Other 
antiseptic  dusting  powders  include  acetanilid,  bismuth  sub- 
nitrate,  salol,  and  boric  acid.  Acetanilid  has  been  shown 
by  Langdon  Frothingham  to  be  a  good  anti-bacterial  agent. 
It  is  cheap  and  may  be  applied  pure,  and  it  is  an  efficient 
substitute  for  iodoform.  A  few  cases  of  poisoning  have 
been  reported  following  its  extensive  surgical  use.  Bismuth 
subnitrate  and  salol  may  induce  poisoning  when  used  over 
large  surfaces.  They  are  dessicants  and  feeble  antiseptics. 
Boric  acid  is  harmless  and  mildly  antiseptic. 


SECTION  X. 
Sulphur. 

Official  Varieties. 

Sulphur  Sublimatum.     Sublimed  Sulphur.     S. 
(U.S.&B.P.) 

Synonym. — Flowers 'of  sulphur,  flores  sulphuris,  E.; 
fleurs  (creme)  de  soufre,  Fr.;  schwefelblumen,  schwefel- 
bliithe,  G. 

Derivation. — Obtained  from  native  sulphur  by  sublim- 
ation. 

Properties, — A  fine,  yellow  powder,  having  a  slightly 
characteristic  odor  and  a  faintly  acid  taste.  Insoluble  in 
water ;  slightly  soluble  in  absolute  alcohol ;  more  readily 
soluble  in  benzine,  benzol,  oil  of  turpentine  and  many  other 
oils;  also  in  ether,  chloroform,  and  in  boiling,  aqueous 
solutions  of  alkaline  hydrates. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Sulphur  Lotum.     Washed  Sulphur.     S.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Sulphur  depuratum,  llores  sulphuris  loti,  P.  G.;  soufre 
lave,  Fr. ;  gereinigte  schwefelblumen,  G. 


SULPHUR  239 

Derivation. — Obtained  from  sublimed  sulphur  which  is  treated 
with  diluted  ammonia  water  to  wash  out  sulphurous  and  sulphuric 
and  other  impurities. 

Properties. — A  fine,  yellow  powder,  without  odor  or  taste.  Solu- 
bility, same  as  sublimed  sulphur. 

Pulvis  Olycyrrhizce  Compositus,   Compound  Powder  of  Glycyrrhiza. 

(U.  S.  P.) 

Senna,  180;  glycyrrhiza,  236;  washed  sulphur,  80;  oil  of  fennel,  4; 
sugar,  500. 

Dose. — Dogs  (laxative),  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.). 

Unguentum  Sulphuris.    Sulphur  Ointment.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Washed  sulphur,  300;  benzoinated  lard,  700. 

Unguentuvi  Sulphuris.     (B.  P.)     (Half  strength  of  U.  S.  P.) 

Sulphur  Prcecipitatum.     Precipitated  Sulphur.     S.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Lao  (magisterium)  sulphuris,  milk  of  sulphur,  E.; 
soufre  precipite,  lait  de  soufre,  Fr.;  Schwofelmilch,  G. 

Derivation. — Obtained  from  a  solution  of  sublimed  sulphur,  100; 
in  boiling  calcium  hydrate,  GO;  by  precipation  with  hydrochloric  acid'. 
Calcium  sulphide  and  hyposulphite  are  formed.     12  S  +  3  Ca  O2H2  = 

2  Ca  S5  +  Ca  S,  O3  +  3  HaO.    Then:  2  CaSs  +  Ca  S,  O3  +  6  H  CI  = 

3  Ca  Cla  -f-  12  S  -f-  3  H3O. 

Dose  (of  sublimed,  washed  or  precipitated  sulphur). — 
H.  &  C,  §  ii.-iv.  (60.-120.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  5  i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  D., 
3  s8.-iv.  (2.-15.). 

Larger  doses  laxative ;  smaller  for  constitutional  action. 

Precipitated  sulphur  is  the  best  preparation  for  inter- 
nal use,  as  it  occurs  in  a  finer  state  of  division  and  is  more 
readily  acted  upon  by  the  digestive  juices.  It  may  contain 
traces  of  sulphides  or  sulphuretted  hydrogen,  owing  to  the 
method  of  preparation. 

Action  External. — Sulphur  has  no  action  upon  the  skin 
when  applied  in  the  pure  state.  The  ointment  is  the  most 
effective  agent  in  destoying  acari  which  produce  mange, 
grease,  and  scab.  Sulphur  does  not  kill  acari  as  readily  as 
a  sulphide  which  is  formed  by  the  addition  of  an  alkalL 


240  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

"When  sulphur  ointment  is  rubbed  into  the  skin  it  causes 
considerable  irritation  and  an  artificial  eczema.  Sulphur 
is  converted  into  sulphuretted  hydrogen  and  sulphurous 
acid  by  living  tissue,  and  this  transformation  may  occur 
to  some  extent  when  sulphur  is  rubbed  into  the  skin 
with  fat. 

Action  Internal. — Digestive  Organs, — Sulphur  is  not 
acted  upon  by  the  stomach,  but  is  somewhat  dissolved  by 
the  alkaline  intestinal  juices,  and  converted  in  part  into 
sulphides  and  sulphuretted  hydrogen.  The  sulphides, 
together  with  sulphuretted  hydrogen,  are  absorbed  into  the 
blood.  Minute  traces  of  sulphuretted  hydrogen  are  eli- 
minated by  the  lungs  and  skin,  while  oxidation  of  sulphur 
also  occurs  in  the  body,  as  there  is  an  increased  secretion 
of  urinary  sulphuric  acid  and  sulphates.  The  sulphides 
and  sulphuretted  hydrogen  act  as  laxatives,  and  in  all 
probability  sulphur  itself  exerts  a  mild,  mechanical  irritation 
upon  the  bowels.  Peristaltic  motion  and  intestinal  secre- 
tions are  both  slightly  increased.  The  faecal  discharges  are 
soft  and  pasty,  and  offensive  flatus  containing  sulphuretted 
hydrogen  escapes  from  the  intestines  after  the  administra- 
tion of  sulphur. 

Constitutional  Action. — Sulphur  acts  remotely  during  its 
elimination  in  stimulating  the  functions  of  the  skin  and 
respiratory  mucous  membranes, — so-called  alterative  action. 
Sulphur  causes  disorganization  of  the  blood,  and  depresses 
and  paralyzes  nervous  and  muscular  tissue  after  the 
continuous  administration  of  colossal  doses.  Ordinary 
therapeutic  quantities  of  sulphur  have  no  effect  of  this 
kind. 

Uses  External. — Sulphur  is  mainly  of  service  externally 
as  a  local  stimulant  and  parasiticide  in  skin  diseases.  The 
female  acarus,  which  produces  mange  (acariasis),  bores  under 
the  epidermis  and  lays  her  eggs  in  the  burrows,  while  the 
male  insect  remains  upon  the  surface.  It  is  essential,  there- 
fore, to  remove  the  epidermis  in  order  to  expose  the  ova 
and  female  to  the  action  of  sulphur.-   The  hair  should  be 


SULPHUR  241 

first  shaved  and  the  parts  soaked  and  scrubbed  with  green 
soap  and  water.  All  cloths  or  brushes  used  in  this  opera- 
tion should  be  burned  or  disinfected  by  boiling.  Sulphur 
acts  most  efficiently  in  ointment,  as  fat  fills  up  the  burrows 
and  deprives  the  insects  of  air.  The  official  ointment  is 
used  in  mange,  but  a  combination  with  an  alkali  is  more 
serviceable,  unless  there  is  active  irritation  of  the  skin,  or 
eczema.     The  following  ointment  is  recommended  : 

Sulphur 2  parts. 

Potassium  carbonate 1  part. 

Lard 8  parts. 

In  obstinate  cases  of  ringworm  or  mange,  the  prepara- 
tion mentioned  by  Brunton  is  of  value.  This  consists  of 
one  part  each  of  sulphur  and  oil  of  cade,  with  two  parts 
each  of  green  soap  and  lard.  True  mange  in  the  dog,  if 
extensive  and  of  long  duration,  is  practically  incurable 
by  any  drug.  Sulphur  ointment  is  of  benefit  in  chronic 
eczema  and  acne,  for  its  local  stimulant  and  alterative 
action. 

Uses  Internal. — Sulphur  is  commonly  used  for  its  laxa- 
tive action  in  the  treatment  of  young  animals  and  dogs 
suffering  with  constipation  and  haemorrhoids.  It  may  be  of 
service  in  chronic  bronchitis  with  copious  secretion.  Sul- 
phur is  frequently  prescribed  internally  for  its  action  in 
chronic  diseases  of  the  skin,  and  is  thought  to  exert  a  bene- 
ficial alterative  action.  Sulphur  is  also  recommended  in 
chronic  rheumatism. 

Disinfectant  Action. — When  sulphur  undergoes  combus- 
tion, sulphurous  anhydride  (S0)2  is  evolved,  and  the  latter 
combining  with  water  forms  sulphurous  acid.  SOg  -f-  H2O 
=  H2SO3. 

Sulphurous  acid,  and,  in  a  less  degree,  sulphurous 
anhydride,  are  germicidal,  and  are  in  common  use  as  disin- 
fectants. Bacteriological  experiments,  however,  show  that 
sulphur  fumigation,  as  ordinarily  employed  for  disinfection, 
is  of  little  worth  for  destroying  disease  germs.  Disinfection 
by  formaldehyde  or  chlorine  gas  is  to  be  preferred.     Sole 


242  INOEaANIC  AGENTS 

reliance  should  never  be  placed  upon  sulphur  fum]*gati(m, 
but  premises  should  be  treated  as  recommended  in  the 
section  on  antiseptics  and  disinfectants  (p.  693.) 

In  employing  sulphur  as  a  disinfectant,  animals  must 
be  removed  from  the  premises  and  communication  with  the 
outer  air  should  be  excluded  as  far  as  possible.  Three 
pounds  of  roll  or  flowers  of  sulphur,  mixed  with  2  ounces 
of  alcohol,  should  be  employed  for  every  1,000  cubic  feet  of 
air  space  to  be  disinfected.  The  premises  which  are  being 
disinfected  should  be  closed  for  six  hours.  Alcohol  is 
employed  to  ignite  the  sulphur  and  also  to  form  steam  by  its 
combustion.  The  latter  unites  with  sulphurous  anhydride 
to  make  the  more  potent  sulphurous  acid. 

If  steam  can  be  introduced  into  the  apartment,  together 
with  sulphur  fumes,  the  eflfect  is  vastly  more  efficient.  The 
sulphur  and  alcohol  may  be  placed  in  an  iron  or  earthen- 
ware vessel,  floating  in  a  tub  of  water  to  avoid  danger  of 
fire.  The  sulphur  not  infrequently  fails  to  burn  freely,  and 
combustion  is  secured  more  certainly  by  placing  flowers  of 
sulphur  with  alcohol  in  an  iron  vessel  which  should  rest 
upon  a  stand  in  a  large  iron  pot.  A  lighted  alcohol  lamp  is 
then  put  under  the  smaller  iron  vessel,  containing  the  sul- 
phur, and  the  lamp  is  ignited.  The  lamp  insures  complete 
combustion  of  the  sulphur  and  the  outer  iron  pot  prevents 
the  surrounding  premises  from  catching  fire. 

Sulphurous  anhydride  has  been  employed  for  its  local 
antiseptic  and  stimulant  action,  in  inflammatory  diseases  of 
the  upper  air  passages  in  horses.  For  this  purpose  it  is 
burned  in  such  quantities  that  the  vapor  is  capable  of  being 
inspired  because  largely  diluted  with  air.  With  such  dilu- 
tion the  antiseptic  action  is  lost,  and  there  is  danger  of 
producing  considerable  irritation,  and  the  procedure  is  of 
doubtful  value.  The  same  treatment  has  been  pursued  in 
verminous  bronchitis  of  lambs  and  calves,  caused  by  the 
Strongylus  filaria  and  S.  micrurus.  Local  treatment,  with 
tracheal  injection,  is  more  efficient. 


SULPHUROUS   ACID  213 

AcrDUM  SULPHUROSUM.     Sulpliurous  Acid.    H2SO3. 
(U.  S.  k  B.  p.) 

Synonym. — Acide  sulfureux,  Fr.;  schwefelige  saure,  G. 

Derivation. — Charcoal,  20,  and  sulphuric  acid,  80,  are 
heated  together  and  the  sulphurous  anhydride  evolved  is 
passed  into  water.  4  H,  SO,  +  2  C  =  4  SO^  4-  2  CO,  -f  4 
H,0.    4  SO,  +  4  H,0  =  4  H.SO,. 

Properties.— A  colorless  liquid  of  the  characteristic  odor 
of  burning  sulphur,  and  of  a  very  acid,  sulphurous  taste.  It 
should  contain  not  less  than  6.4  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  sul- 
phurous anhydride,  and  not  more  than  93.6  per  cent,  of  water. 

i>ose.— H.  &  C,  §i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.); 
D.,  3ss..ii.  (2.-8.). 

Actions  and  Uses. — Sulphurous  acid  decomposes  organic 
matter,  abstracts  oxygen,  and  is  transformed  intb  sulphuric 
acid.  The  amount  of  sulphuric  acid  formed  from  the  medi- 
cinal solution  is  not  sufficient  to  interfere  with  its  action  in 
or  upon  the  body.  Sulphurous  acid  is  a  deodorant,  deoxi- 
dizer,  parasiticide  and  disinfectant  externally.  Solutions 
(1-4)  are  used  as  local  stimulant  and  antiseptic  applications 
to  wounds,  ulcers,  or  sores  with  foul  discharges,  and  to  kill 
the  fungus  growths  producing  ringworm. 

Sulphurous  acid  is  employed  as  an  antiseptic  in  indi- 
gestion,' associated  with  flatulence,  and  has  the  same  effect 
and  value  as  the  sulphites  and  hyposulphites  which  are 
used  for  the  same  purposes. 

PoTASSA  SuLPHURATA.     Sulphurated  Potassa.     (U.S.  &  B.P.) 

Synonym. — Potassii  sulphuretum,  potassii  sulphidum^ 
liver  of  sulphur.,  E.;  foie  de  soufre,  Fr.;  kalischwefel- 
leber,  G. 

Derivation. — Powdered  and  dried  potassium  carbonate, 
200,  is  mixed  with  sublimed  sulphur,  and  heated  in  a  cru- 
cible. Potassa  sulphurata  is  a  mixture  of  potassium  hypo- 
sulphite and  sulphide.  3  K^C  O3  -h  8  S  =  KAO3  -f-  2  K.S, 
+  3  CO,. 


244  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Properties,  —  Irregular  pieces  of  a  liver-brown  color,, 
which  by  exposure  to  the  air  gradually  absorb  moisture, 
oxygen,  and  carbonic  dioxide,  and  change  to  greenish-yellow 
and  finally  to  a  gray  mass  containing  potassium  carbonate, 
hyposulphite  and  sulphate.  The  compound  has  a  faint  odor 
of  hydrogen  sulphide,  and  a  bitter  alkaline  taste.  Soluble 
in  2  parts  of  water,  with  the  exception  of  a  small  residue. 

Dose.—B..  k  C,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  D.,  gr.ii.-x.  (.12-.6). 

Action  Inte7'nal. — Sulphurated  potassa  has  practically 
the  same  action  as  sulphur,  internally  and  externally, 
although  more  stimulating  locally.  Large  doses  have  caused 
gastro-intestinal  inflammation,  and  the  remote  effects  ob- 
served after  repeated  enormous  doses  of  sulphur :  i.  e.,  dis- 
organization of  the  blood  and  paralysis  of  nerves  and 
muscles.  It  has  been  administered  internally  as  a  substi- 
tute for  sulphur,  but  is  only  of  value  externally. 

Action  and  Uses  External. — Sulphurated  potassa  is  one 
of  the  most  serviceable  agents  we  possess  in  the  treatment 
of  chronic  forms  of  skin  diseases,  as  psoriasis,  lichen,  but 
particularly  eczema  of  the  horse  and  dog.  It  is  locally 
stimulant,  alterative  (?),  and  parasiticide.  There  is  only  one 
drawback  to  its  general  use,  which  is  its  exceedingly  dis- 
agreeable odor.  Peruvian  Vjalsam  is  frequently  substituted 
for  this  reason  in  the  treatment  of  skin  diseases  in  dogs.  A 
solution,  "yellow  lotion,"  is  used  in  different  strengths  (1-8 
to  1-15),  according  to  the  amount  of  stimulation  which  the 
skin  will  endure.  The  "yellow  lotion,"  is  a  good  agent  for 
killing  lice  upon  the  skin.  The  following  prescription  will 
be  found  of  benefit  in  canine  practice. 

Potassse  Sulphuratae 3  ii.ss. 

Chloralis 3  ss. 

01.  Anisi .... iilii. 

Aquae  ad ^  iv. 

M. 

S.    External  use. 

The  chloral  relieves  itching  and  the  anise  disguises  to 
some  extent  the  odor  of  hydrogen  sulphide. 


HYDROeHLGRIC   AGID  245- 

SECTION    XL 

Acids. 

AciDUM  Hydrochloricum.     Hydrochloric  Acid.     H  CI. 

(U.S.&B.P.) 

(Muriatic  Add.) 

Synonym. — Acidum  hydrochloratum,  S.  chlorhydricum, 
E.;  acide  chlorhydrique  S.  mariatique,  Fr.;  salzsaiire,  G. 

A  liquid  composed  of  31.9  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  abso- 
lute hydrochloric  acid,  and  68.1  per  cent,  of  water.    (U.  8.  P.) 

Derivation. — Distil  together  sulphuric  acid,  salt,  and 
water.  The  resulting  hydrochloric  acid  gas  is  passed  into 
distilled  water,  while  acid  sodium  sulphate  remg-ins  in  the 
retort  and  is  farther  acted  upon  by  salt.  2  Na  CI  +  H2S  O4 
=  H  01  +  Na  CI  +  Na  HSO,;  then :  Na  HSO,  +  Na  CI  = 
H  CI  +  Na,SG,. 

Properties. — A  colorless,  fuming  liquid,  of  a  pungent 
odor  and  an  intensely  acid  taste.  Spec,  gr.,  about  1.163  at 
15°  C.  (59°  F.)  Miscible,  in  all  proportions,  with  water 
and  alcohol. 

Incompatibles. — Alkaline  and  other  carbonates,  and  lead 
and  silver  salts. 

preparations. 

Acidum  Hydrochloricum  Dilutum,  Acidum  Nitrohydrochloricum, 

Acidum  Nitrohydrochloricum  Dilutum. 

Acidum  Hydrochloricum  Dilutum.     Diluted  Hydrochloric  Acid. 

(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

(Diluted  Muriatic  Acid.) 

Derivation. — Hydrochloric  acid,  100;  distilled  water,  219.  Diluted 
hydrochloric  acid  contains  10  per  cent,  of  absolute  hydrochloric  acid. 
(U.  S.  P.) 

Properties. — It  does  not  fume  in  the  air  and  is  without  odor. 
Spec,  gr.,  1.050.  Otherwise  corresponds  to  hydrochloric  acid.   (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.—B..,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  C,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  Sh.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.); 
Sw.  &D.,  mx.-xxx.  (.6-2.).  .   . 


246  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

AciDUM  SuLPHURicuM.     Sulphuric  Acid.     H2SO,. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

A  liquid  composed  of  not  less  than  92.5  per  cent,  by 
weight  of  absolute  sulphuric  acid,  and  not  more  than  7.5  per 
cent,  water. 

Derivation. — Sulphurous  anhydride  (U.  S.  P.),  generated 
by  roasting  iron  pyrites,  or  sulphur,  is  passed  into  leaden 
chambers.  Nitric  acid  is  introduced  with  steam,  and  the 
sulphurous  anhydride  undergoes  oxidation  and  hydration. 
2  HNO3  +  2  SO3  +  H,0  =  2  H,SO,  4-  N  A- 

The  nitrous  acid  combines  with  oxygen  and  water  in 
the  air,  and  is  re-transformed  into  nitric  acid,  acting  con- 
tinually as  a  carrier  of  oxygen  to  sulphurous  anhydride. 

Properties. — A  colorless  liquid,  of  oily  consistence,  ino- 
dorous, and  very  caustic  and  corrosive.  Spec.  gr.  not  below 
1.835.  Miscible,  in  all  proportions,  with  water  and  alcohol, 
with  evolution  of  so  much  heat  that  the  mixing  requires 
great  caution.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Incompatibles.  —  Alkalies  and  carbonates,  calcium  and 
lead  salts. 

PREPABATIONS. 
ACIDUM  SULPHUBICUM  DiLUTUM,   ACIDUM   SULPHURICUM  AROMATICUM. 

Acidum  Sulphuricum  Dilutum.     Diluted  Sulphuric  Acid. 
(U.  S.  «&  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Oil  of  vitriol,  E.;  acide  sulphurique,  huile  de  vitriol, 
Fr.;  schwefelsaure,  vitriolol,  G. 

DeWrah'on.— Sulphuric  acid,  100  gm.;  distilled  water,  825  gm. 

Properties.  —  Diluted  sulphuric  acid  contains  10  per  cent.,  by 
weight,  of  absolute  sulphuric  acid.     Spec.  gr.  about  1.070.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  C,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  Sh.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.); 
Sw.  &  D.,  mx.-xxx.  (.6-2.). 

Acidum -Sulphuricum  Aromaticum.     Aromatic  Sulphuric  Acid. 

(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Tinctura  aromatica  acida,  P.  G.;  elixir  vitrioli  Myn- 
sichti,  elixir  of  vitriol,  E.;  elixir  vitriolique,  teinture  (alcool)  aromatique 
sulphurique,  Fr.;  saure  aromatische  tinctur,  Mynsicht's  elixir,  G. 


AROMATIC   SULPHURIC  ACID  247 

Derivation. — Sulphuric  acid,  100  Co. ;  tincture  of  ginger,  50  Cc. ; 
oil  of  cinnamon,  1  Cc;  alcohol  to  make  1,000  Cc.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Properties. — Aromatic  sulphuric  acid  contains  about  20  per  cent., 
by  weight,  of  official  sulphuric  acid,  partly  in  form  of  ethyl  sulphuric 
acid.     Spec.  gr.  about  0.939.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.,  3ss.-i.  (2.-4.);  C,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  Sh.,  mxv.-xxx.  (1.-2.); 
Sw.  &  D.,  mv.-xv.  (.3-1.). 


AciDUM  NiTRicuM.    Nitric  Acid.     HNO3.    (U.S.&B.P.) 

Synonym. — Acide  azotique,  Fr.;  salpetersaure,  G. 

A  liquid  composed  of  68  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  abso- 
lute nitric  acid,  and  32  per  cent,  of  water. 

Derivation. — Seven  parts  of  sodium  or  potassium  nitrate 
are  distilled  with  four  parts  of  sulphuric  acid  and  water. 
KNO3  -H  H,SO,  =  KHSO,  +  HNO3. 

Properties. — A  colorless,  fuming  liquid,  very  caustic  and 
corrosive,  and  having  a  peculiar,  somewhat  suffocating  odor. 
Spec.  gr.  about  1.414.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Incompatibles.— Alkalies  and  carbonates,  iron  sulphate, 
lead  acetate  and  alcohol. 

PREPARATIONS. 

ACIDUM  NiTRICUM  DiLUTUM,   ACIDUM    NiTROHYDROCHLORICUM, 
ACIDUM  NiTROHYDROCHLORICUM  DiLUTUM. 

J.  Acidum  Nitricum  Dilutum,     Diluted  Nitric  Acid.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Nitric  acid,  100;  distilled  water,  580.  Diluted  nitric 
acid  contains  10  per  cent. ,  by  weight,  of  absolute  nitric  acid.  Spec.  gr. 
about  1.057.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.,  3  i.-ii.  (4-8.);  C,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  Sh.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.); 
Sw.  &  D.,  nv.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

II.  Acidum  Nitrohydrochlorieum.    Nitrohydrochloric  Acid.     (U.  S.  P.) 
(Nitromuriatic  Acid.) 

Derivation. — Nitric  acid,  180;  hydrochloric  acid,  820.  Chemical 
composition  uncertain. 

Properties. — A  golden  yellow,  fuming  and  very  corrosive  liquid, 
having  a  strong  odor  of  chlorine.  The  strong  acid  should  always  be 
freshly  prepared  and  should  be  used  in  preference  to  the  diluted  acid. 
It  may  be  made  off  hand  by  mixing  4  parts  of  nitric  acid  with  16  parts 


248  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

of  hydrochloric  acid.    The  mixture  should  remain  in  an  open  bottle  not 
more  than  half  full,  until  the  fumes  pass  off. 

Dose.—R.,  mxx.-xl.  (1.3-2.6);  D.,  TTiiii.-v.  (.2-.3). 

IIL  Acidum  Nitrohydrochloricum  Dilutum.    Diluted  Nitrochlorio  Acid. 

(U.S.  &B.  P.) 
(Diluted  Nitromuriatic  Acid.) 

Synonym. — Acidum  chloro-nitrosum,  P.  G. ;  aqua  regia  S.  regis,  — 
acide  chloro-azotique  S.  chloro-nitreux,  eau  Regalfes,  Fr.;  salpetersalz- 
saure,  konigswasser,  G. 

Derivation.  —  Nitric  acid,  40;  hydrochloric  acid,  180;  distilled 
water,  780. 

Properties. — A  colorless,  or  pale  yellowish  liquid,  having  a  faint 
odor  of  chlorine  and  a  very  acid  taste.  Completely  volatilized  by  heat. 
(U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  C,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  Sh.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.); 
Sw.  &  D.,  mv.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 


Acidum  Phosphoricum.     Phosphoric  Acid.     HjP  0<. 
(U.  S.  &B.  P.) 

A  liquid  composed  of  not  less  than  85  per  cent.,  by 
weight,  of  absolute  orthophosphoric  acid  (HgP  OJ,  and  not 
more  than  15  per  cent,  of  water.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Derivation. — Heat  phosphorus  with  diluted  nitric  acid 
till  nitrous  fumes  cease.  P3  +  5  HNO3  +  2  H,0  =  3  H3 
PO,  4-  5  NO. 

Properties. — A  colorless  liquid,  without  odor,  but  having 
a  strongly  acid  taste.  Spec.  gr.  not  below  1.710.  Miscible, 
in  all  proportions,  with  water  or  alcohol.     (U.  S.  P.) 

PREPARATION. 

Acidum  Phosphoricum  Dilutum.    Diluted  Phosphoric  Acid. 

Derivation. — Phosphoric  acid,  100;  distilled  water,  750.  (XJ.  S.  P.) 
Diluted  phosphoric  acid  contains  10  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  absolute 
orthophosphoric  acid.     Spec.  gr.  about  1057. 

Dose.— H.,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  C,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  Sh.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.); 
.D.,  Tiiv.-xxx.  (.3-2.)  .  . 


ACETIC  ACID  249 

AciDUM  AcETicuM.     Acetic  Acid.     H  C2H3O2. 
(U.  S.<feB.  P.) 

Synonym. — Acetum  purum,  —  acetum  destillatum,  P.G.; 
acide  acetiqiie  dilue,  Fr.;  reiner  essig,  G. 

A  liquid  composed  of  36  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  absolute 
acetic  acid,  and  64  per  cent,  of  water. 

Derivation. —  Distillation  of  dry  sodium  acetate  with 
sulphuric  acid  and  crystallization  of  the  distillate.  Na  Cj 
H3O2  +  H^  SO,  =  H  C2  H3  O2  +  Na  H  SO,. 

Properties. — A  clear,  colorless  liquid,  having  a  strong, 
vinegar-like  odor,  a  purely  acid  taste  and  a  strongly  acid 
reaction.  Spec.  gr.  about  "  ^  8.  Miscible  with  water  or 
alcohol  in  all  proportions. 

PREPARA.T10N. 
Acidum  Aceticum  Dilutum.    Diluted  Acetic  Acid.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Acetum  concentratum,  —  acide  acetique,  Fr.;  ver- 
diinnte  essigsaure,  G. 

Derivation. — Acetic  acid,  100;  distilled  water,  500.  Diluted  acetic 
acid  contains  6  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  absolute  acetic  acid.  Spec.  gr. 
about  1  008.  Not  employed  internally  except  in  the  form  of  official 
aceta.  Vinegar  is  impure  diluted  acetic  acid,  made  by  destructive 
distillation  of  wood,  or  by  acetous  fermentation  and  oxidation  of  alco- 
holic solutions,  as  cider. 

C2H5O  H  +  Oa  =  H  CaHsOa  +  H^O.  A  temperature  of  80°  F.,  and 
the  presence  of  the  ferment  or  mould  (mycoderma  aceti),  are  necessary. 

AoiDUM  Aceticum  Glaciale.   Glacial  Acetic  Acid.   HC2H3O2. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym.  —  Acidum  aceticum,  P.  G.;  acidum  aceticum 
concentratum,  acetum  glaciale, —  acide  acetique  concentree, 
esprit  de  vinaigre,  vinaigre  glacial,  Fr.;  essigsaure,  eissesig,  G. 

Derivation. — Same  as  acetic  acid. 

Properties. — A  clear,  colorless  liquid  of  a  strong  vinegar- 
like odor,  and  a  very  pungent,  purely  acid  taste.  Contains 
about  99  per  cent,  of  absolute  acid.     Not  used  internally. 


250  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

AciDUM  Tartaricum.     Tartaric  Acid.     HjC^H^Oe- 
(U.S.&B.P.) 

Synonym. — Sal  essentiale  tartari,  —  aclde  tartrique, 
acide  de  tartre,  Fr.;  weinsaure,  weinsteinsaure,  G. 

Derivation.  —  Boil  acid  potassium  tartrate  or  argoL 
(incrustation  in  wine  casks)  witli  chalk  to  form  calcium 
tartrate.  2  K  H  C,H,Oe  +  Ca  C  O,  =  Ca  C.H.Oe  +  K,C,H,Oe 
+  H2O  +  C  O2.  Add  calcium  chloride,  which  precipitates 
more  calcium  tartrate,  and  decompose  with  sulphuric  acid. 
H,S  O,  +  Ca  C,H,Oe  =  H^C.H.Oe  +  Ca  S  O,. 

Evaporate  solution.  Calcium  sulphate  crystals  separate 
and  are  removed,  while  tartaric  acid  crystallizes  on  further 
evaporation. 

Properties.  —  Colorless,  translucent,  monoclinic  prisms, 
or  crystalline  crusts,  or  a  white  powder;  odorless,  having  a 
purely  acid  taste,  and  permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble  in 
about  .8  part  of  water,  and  in  2.5  parts  of  alcohol.  Not 
commonly  used  in  Veterinary  medicine. 

Dose.—R.,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  !>.,  gr.x.-xxx.  (.6-2.). 

AciDUM  CiTRicuM.     Citric  Acid.     HjCeH.O,.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Acidum  citri  S.  limonum,  S.  limonorum,  — 
acide  citrique,  acide  du  citron,  Fr.;  citrouensaure,  G. 

Derivation. — Usually  prepared  from  the  lemon  (citrus 
lemonum),  or  lime  (citrus  bergamia).  Boiling  lemon  juice 
(containing  7  per  cent,  of  citric  acid)  is  treated  with  chalk 
to  form  calcium  citrate.  2  HgCgHjO,  +3  Ca  C  O3  =  Ca^ 
(CeH.O,),  +  3  C  O2  +  3  H^O. 

Calcium  citrate  is  boiled  with  sulphuric  acid  and  the 
resulting  citric  acid  is  obtained  by  filtration,  evaporation 
and  crystallization.  Ca,  (CeH.O,)^  +  3  H^  S  O,  =  2  H3CeH, 
O,  +  3  Ca  S  O,. 

Properties.  —  Colorless,  translucent,  right  -  rhombic 
prisms;  odorless,  having  an  agreeable,  purely  acid  taste; 
efflorescent  in  warm  air  and  deliquescent  when  exposed  to 


LACTIC  ACID  251 

moist  air.     Soluble  in  0.63  parts  of  water  and  in  1.61  parts 
of  alcohol. 

I)ose.—B..,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  D.,  gr.x.-xx.  (.6-1.3). 

PREPARATION. 

Syrapus  Acidi  Citrici.    Syrup  of  Citric  Acid.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Citric  Acid,  10;  water,  10;  spirit  of  lemon,  10;  syrup  to  make  1000. 
Dose. — Ad  lib. 

AciDUM  Lacticum.     Lactic  Acid.     H  C3H5O3. 

(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Acide  lactique,  Fr. ;  milchsaure,  G. 

An  organic  acid,  usually  obtained  by  subjecting  milk- 
sugar  or  grape-sugar  to  lactic  fermentation.  Composed  of 
75  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  absolute  lactic  acid,,  and  25  per 
cent,  of  water. 

Properties. — A  colorless,  syrupy  liquid,  odorless,  of  a 
purely  acid  taste.  Spec.  gr.  about  1.213.  Freely  miscible 
with  water,  alcohol,  or  ether. 

Dose.—B..,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  D.,  1ltxxx..3i.  (2.-4.). 

Other  acids  to  be  found  in  other  sections. 

Action  External. — The  concentrated  mineral  acids  are 
powerful  escharotics,  but  in  dilution  are  stimulant,  astrin- 
gent, rubefacient,  or  vesicant,  according  to  their  strength. 
Acids  have  a  great  affinity  for  the  alkaline  juices  of  the 
tissues  and  blood,  and  weak  acid  solutions  are  thus  neutral- 
ized. Strong  acids  coagulate  albumin,  probably  by  combin- 
ing with  alkalies  which  hold  albumin  in  solution,  forming 
dense  compounds  with  the  albuminoids  of  the  tissue.  When 
mineral  acids  are  present  in  abundance  the  albumin  first 
coagulated  is  afterwards  dissolved  (except  nitric  acid),  and 
the  corrosive  action  of  the  acids  is  extensive.  Acids  farther 
destroy  tissue  by  combining  with  water,  for  which  they  have 
also  a  great  affinity,  particularly  sulphuric  and  phosphoric 
acids.  The  former  withdraws  water  to  such  an  extent  that 
the  tissues  are  carbonized  and  blackened.  Sulphuric  acid 
is  more  destructive  of  tissue  and  acts  more  extensively  than 


252  INORG-iNIC  AGENTS 

the  other  mineral  salts.  Nitric  acid  is  less  caustic,  and 
hydrochloric  acid  is  the  least  corrosive.  Nitric  acid  stains 
the  parts  yellow,  and  hydrochloric,  white.  The  vegetable 
acids,  as  citric  and  tartaric  acids,  are  slightly  caustic,  but 
are  irritant  to  the  skin,  and  still  more  so  to  raw  surfaces  and 
mucous  membranes.  An  ounce  of  tartaric  acid  has  caused 
death  in  man  through  its  local  effect.  The  action  of  the 
caustic  alkalies  is  more  widespread  than  that  of  the  mineral 
acids.  Diluted  sulphuric  and  nitric  acids  are  astringents, 
because  of  their  power  of  condensing  tissues,  and  also 
hemostatics  in  causing  compression  of  blood  vessels  by 
contraction  of  the  tissues  about  them.  Nitric  acid  is  com- 
monly employed  externally,  because  its  effect  is  limited  by 
its  own  eschar,  which  is  not  dissolved  by  an  excess  of  acid. 

Hydrochloric  acid  has  no  astringent  effect  and  is  not 
used  externally  for  its  caustic  properties.  The  acids  are 
antiseptic,  but  are  less  appropriate  than  other  agents  in 
most  cases,  on  account  of  their  irritant  action. 

Action  Interned. — Alimentary  Canal. — Acids  stimulate 
the  normal  alkaline  secretions  in  the  body,  particularly 
those  entering  the  mouth  and  intestines.  The  flow  of 
saliva,  bile  and  intestinal  juices  is  therefore  increased. 
Diluted  acids  are  called  refrigerants  in  imparting  a  sense 
of  coolness  to  the  skin  aud  mucous  membrane  of  the 
mouth,  and,  by  augmenting  the  secretion  of  saliva,  relieve 
thirst  in  fever.  In  opposition  to  the  action  of  acids  in 
stimulating  alkaline  secretions,  exists  the  'fact  of  their 
checking  acid  secretions,  such  as  the  gastric  juice  and 
sweat,  and  if  the  administration  of  acids  is  prolonged  for 
several  weeks,  gastric  digestion  may  be  impaired  in  conse- 
quence, unless  the  gastric  juice  is  abnormally  deficient.  The 
acids  exert  a  local  stimulant  and  astringent  action  upon  the 
intestinal  canal.  Nitric  acid  is  particularly  a  stimulant, 
sulphuric  acid  an  astringent,  while  nitric  and  nitrohydro- 
chloric  acids  are  especially  cholagogues.  Hydrochloric  acid 
assists  digestion  in  supplying  a  deficiency  in  the  normal 
hydrochloric  acid  of  the  gastric  juice,  in  aiding  the  conver- 


ACTION  OF  ACIDS  253 

sion  of  proteids  into  peptones  by  pepsin,  and  in  stimulating 
the  formation  of  the  latter.  Mineral  acids  are  essentially 
digestive  tonics,  promoting  gastric  digestion  (H  CI),  increas- 
ing the  secretion  of  the  liver  and  intestinal  glands,  and 
improving  the  tone  and  blood  supply  of  relaxed  intestinal 
mucous  membrane. 

Constitutional  Action. — Acids  are  absorbed,  and  in  consi- 
derable doses  make  the  blood  less  alkaline,  the  urine  more 
acid,  and  appear  to  exert  a  slight  astringent  action  upon  the 
skin  and  mucous  membranes  during  their  elimination.  We 
possess  no  knowledge  to  explain  the  remote  effects  of  the 
acids.  Some  authorities  state  that  the  acids  are  converted 
into  salts  in  the  blood,  as  sulphates,  nitrates  and  phosphates, 
which  are  eliminated  by  the  urine,  skin  and  bowels.  Others 
teach  that  much  of  the  acid  is  eliminated  in  th^  urine  in  the 
form  of  ammonia  compounds.  Brunton  says  that  the  acids 
cause  a  modification  of  tissue  change  in  the  liver  so  that  the 
production  of  urea  is  lessened  by  the  passage  of  the  acids 
through  that  organ,  and  that  the  ammonia  furnished  by  the 
acids  is  not  converted  into  urea,  as  normally  happens,  but 
is  eliminated  in  the  urine  as  such.  Both  these  suppositions 
are  apparently  fallacious,  because  if  the  acids  were  trans- 
formed into  salts  they  would  not  produce  remote  astringent 
effects^  and  if  they  were  converted  into  ammonia  compounds 
they  would  not  acidify  the  urine.  The  probable  explana- 
tion is  that  in  small  doses  acids  are  more  prone  to  decom- 
position, while  large  doses  are  eliminated  in  part  unchanged 
by  the  kidneys,  bowels  and  skin,  and  so  acidify  the  urine 
and  exert  a  remote  astringent  action. 

Acidity  of  the  blood  causes  death  in  depressing  the 
heart,  and  because  an  alkaline  or  neutral  medium  (normal 
blood)  is  essential  to  carry  away  carbonic  dioxide  from  the 
tissues.  Vegetable  acids  are  thought  more  especially  to 
lower  the  force  of  the  heart,  which  they  certainly  do  in 
poisonous  quantities,  and  possibly  in  medicinal  doses.  In 
considerable  amount,  the  vegetable  acids  increase  the  acidity 
of  the  urine,  but  in  small  doses  alkalize  this  secretion  by 


254  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

undergoing  decomposition  in  the  blood  with  the  production 
of  alkaline  carbonates.  The  vegetable  acids  are  infrequently 
used  in  veterinary  medicine. 

Diluted  phosphoric  acid  relieves  thirst  and  forms  an 
agreeable  cooliug  drink  in  fevers.  It  is  extremely  doubtful 
whether  phosphoric  acid  acts  either  as  a  tonic  or  reconsti- 
tuent,  by  supplying  phosphates  to  the  blood  or  tissues. 

Poismiing. — If  acid  is  spilled  on  the  skin,  alkalies  should 
be  applied,  and  in  case  of  sulphuric  acid  the  excess  of  acid 
should  first  be  rubbed  off,  and  then  large  quantities  of  very 
dilute  alkaline  solutions  or  soapsuds  should  be  employed 
to  avoid  evolution  of  heat  when  the  acid  combines  with 
water.  When  acids  are  swallowed,  there  is  excoriation  and 
sloughing  of  mucous  membranes,  difficulty  in  swallowing, 
vomiting  of  dark  brown  material  and  mucus  (in  animals 
capable  of  the  act),  severe  colic,  pain  on  movement,  consti- 
pation, or,  rarely,  bloody  diarrhoea.  Occasionally  some  acid 
flows  into  the  larynx  during  deglutition  and  oedema  and 
suffocation  rapidly  ensue.  There  is  inflammation  of  the 
upper  part  of  the  digestive  canal,  thirst,  and  collapse,  with 
weak  pulse  and  cold  extremities.  Softening,  slonghs, 
haemorrhage  and  perforation  of  the  mucous  membrane  of 
the  mouth,  gullet  and  stomach  and  small  intestines  are 
found  2X)st  mortem. 

Treatment. — Soapsuds,  sodium  bicarbonate,  lime  water, 
magnesia,  or  other  alkalies.  Demulcents,  as  milk,  white  of 
egg,  gum  arable  and  linseed  tea.  Opium  and  stimulants. 
W^sh  out  the  stomach  with  a  large  amount  of  alkaline 
solution. 

Uses  External.  —  Strong  mineral  acids  are  used  as 
caustics.  One  part  of  sulphuric  acid  is  mixed  with,  three 
parts  of  sulphur,  or  asbestos,  to  form  a  paste  for  the  destruc- 
tion of  morbid  growths. 

The  application  of  sulphuric  acid  is  somewhat  dan- 
gerous, as  it  is  difficult  to  limit  the  action,  and  it  is  not  by 
any  means  the  best  escharotic,  nor  so  good  as  nitric  acid, 
which  produces  less  extensive  destruction  of  tissue,  and  is  a 


USES  OF  ACIDS  255 

useful  agent  for  the  removal  of  tumors,  for  the  cauterization 
of  bites  inflicted  by  rabid  animals,  and  for  the  treatment  of 
foul,  sloughing  wounds  or  foot  rot. 

The  action  of  nitric  acid  may  be  limited  by  surrounding 
the  part  to  which  the  strong  acid  is  applied  with  oil,  or  by 
washing  the  acid  off  with  soapsuds.  Glacial  acetic  acid  is 
frequently  employed  to  remove  warts  and  small  excres- 
cences. It  is  not  so  powerful  as  sulphuric  or  nitric  acid. 
The  acids  in  weak  solution  ( 3  i.-Oi.)  are  useful  in  relieving 
irritation  of  the  skin,  as  in  urticaria,  for  their  astringent 
action  upon  piles,  and  to  stop  slight  haemorrhages.  Vinegar 
diluted  with  3  parts  of  water  may  be  used  for  the  same 
purposes.  Nitric  acid  (TTLv.-xxx.  to  §  i.  of  water)  is  a  good 
antiseptic,  stimulant  and  astringent  application  to  indolent 
ulcers,  wounds,  or,  in  the  mouth,  for  ulcerativa  or  mercurial 
stomatitis. 

Uses  Internal. — The  acids  are  all  of  value  in  digestive 
disorders.  Hydrochloric  acid  is  useful  in  fever,  to  relieve 
thirst  and  aid  digestion,  when  a  few  drops  may  be  put  in 
the  drinking  water.  Hydrochloric  acid  is  especially  indi- 
cated for  gastric  indigestion  with  deficiency  in  the  secretion 
of  gastric  juice,  and  for  fermentation  and  tympanites  in 
chronic  gastritis.  Hydrochloric  acid  should  be  given 
after  feeding,  and  is  often  combined  with  bitters.  It  acts 
as  an  antiseptic  in  addition  to  aiding  digestion.  Hyper- 
secretion of  hydrochloric  acid,  or  hyperchlorhydria,  is  said 
to  be  characterized  by  acid  reaction  of  the  secretion  in  the 
mouth,  and  a  desire  to  lick  alkaline  earthy  matters.  It  is 
best  treated  by  alkalies  after  feeding.  All  the  acids  are 
serviceable  in  the  treatment  of  diarrhoea  and  intestinal  indi- 
gestion. Aromatic  sulphuric  acid  (with  opium)  is  more 
particularly  valuable  as  a  remedy  for  watery  purging. 
Nitric  and  nitrohydrochloric  acids  are  of  more  use  in 
diarrhoea  with  indigestion,  jaundice,  and  disordered  hepatic 
functions.  The  latter  acid  is  often  combined  with  nux 
vomica  in  the  treatment  of  intestinal  indigestion,  and  is  a 
valuable  remedy  in  catarrhal  jaundice  of  dogs. 


256  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Sulphuric  acid  is  utilized  in  acute  lead  poisoning,  as  an 
antidote,  to  form  insoluble  sulphates  in  the  bowels.  The 
acids  are  given  for  their  remote  astringent  action  in  arrest- 
ing or  preventing  haemorrhage  (purpura)  from  internal 
organs,  and  in  diminishing  excessive  sweating  and  mucous 
discharges ;  but  are  inferior  to  other  agents  in  the  treatment 
of  these  conditions. 

Administration.  —  The  acids  should  all  be  thoroughly- 
diluted  with  water  for  internal  use. 


AciDUM  BoRicuM.    Boric  Acid.     H,  B  O,.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Boracic  acid,  E.;  acide  borique,  Fr.;  acidum 
boracicum,  sal.  sedativum  Hombergii,  borsaure,  G. 

Derivation. — Made  by  evaporation  and  crystallization  of 
solutions  obtained  by  passing  steam  issuing  from  rocks  in 
volcanic  regions  of  Italy,  through  water ;  or  by  the  action 
of  hydrochloric  or  sulphuric  acids  upon  borax.  Nag  B^O, 
(borax)  +  10  H,0  +  2  H  CI  =  4  H3B  0,  +  2  Na  CI  +  5  H,0. 
Recovered  by  filtration  and  recrystallization. 

Properties. — Transparent,  colorless  scales,  of  a  some- 
what pearly  lustre,  or,  when  in  perfect  crystals,  six  sided 
triclinic  plates,  slightly  unctuous  to  the  touch ;  odorless, 
haviug  a  faintly  bitterish  taste,  and  permanent  in  the  air. 
Soluble  in  25.6  parts  of  water  and  in  15  parts  of  alcohol; 
also  soluble  in  10  parts  of  glycerin.     It  is  feebly  acid. 

Dose. — Foals  and  calves.,  gr.xx.-xxx.  (1.3-2.). 

PREPARATION. 

Olyceritum  Boroglycerini.     Glycerite  of  Boroglycerin.     (l/.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Glycerite  of  glyceryl  borate,  solution  of  boroglyceride. 
Boric  acid,  310;  glycerin  to  make  1,000.  Solution  prepared  by  heat 
(303°  F.) 

SoDii   Boras.      Sodium   Borate.     Na^B.O,.     (U.  S.  <fe  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Borax,  natrum  biboricum,  boras,  boras  sodi- 
cus,  E.;  borate  de  soudre,  Fr.;  borsaures  natron,  G. 


ACTION  OF  BORIC  ACID  AND  BORAX  257 

Derivation. — Natural  deposits  of  the  crude  article  occur 
as  incrustations  on  shores  of  lakes  in  Nevada  and  California, 
which  are  purified  by  calcination  and  crystallization.  Borax 
is  also  made  by  boiling  boric  acid  with  sodium  carbonate. 
4  H3B  O3  +  Na,C  O3  =  Na,B,0,  +  C  O,  +  6  H,  O. 

Properties. — Colorless,  transparent,  monoclinic  prisms, 
or  a  white  powder,  inodorous  and  having  a  sweetish,  alka- 
line taste.  Slightly  efflorescent  in  warm,  dry  air.  Soluble 
in  16  parts  of  water  at  59°  F.,  and  in  0.5  part  of  boiling 
water ;  insoluble  in  alcohol.  At  176°  F.  it  is  soluble  in  one 
part  of  glycerin.     Borax  is  slightly  alkaline. 

ACTION   OF   BORIC   ACID   AND   BORAX. 

Boric  acid  and  borax  are  essentially  mild,  non-irritating 
antiseptics.  These  agents  are  practically  harmless,  as  ordi- 
narily employed,  yet  death  in  man  has  been  reported  from 
absorption  of  a  5  per  cent,  solution  of  boric,  acid  used  for 
irrigation  of  the  large  cavities  of  the  body,  and  fatalities 
have  resulted  from  the  ingestion  of  quantities  of  boric  acid. 

Three  drachms  of  boric  acid  may  be  given  daily  to  dogs, 
without  causing  any  untoward  effect.  In  man,  boric  acid 
poisoning  has  been  exhibited  by  feeble  pulse,  subnormal 
temperature,  vomiting,  erythema  and  swelling  of  superficial 
parts,  involuutary  evacuations,  coma,  and  disordered  respi- 
ration. Boric  acid  is  eliminated  by  the  urine,  sweat,  saliva 
and  faeces.  It  is  said  to  be  diuretic,  and,  in  large  doses,  to 
induce  acute  parenchymatous  nephritis. 

Boric  acid  and  borax,  like  other  antiseptics,  relieve 
itching  and  destroy  parasites  upon  the  skin.  Boric  acid 
exerts  an  antiseptic  action  upon  the  contents  of  the  digestive 
tract  and  upon  the  urine.  It  is  thought  to  possess  some 
emmenagogue  action. 

USES   OF  BORIC   ACID   AND   BORAX. 

The  value  of  boric  acid  and  borax  is  chiefly  surgical. 
They  are  employed  more  commonly  upon  the  mucous  mem- 


258  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

branes  of  the  eyelids,  moutli,  nose,  vagina,  urethra  and 
bladder,  for  their  non-irritating,  antiseptic  properties,  and 
also  to  relieve  itching  and  to  destroy  parasites  upon  the 
skin.  Boric  acid  is  in  more  frequent  use  than  any  other 
agent  in  simple  catarrhal  conjunctivitis,  and  may  be  com- 
bined to  advantage  with  cocaine  as  follows : 

Cocainae  Hydrochlor gr.v.-x. 

Acid.  Borici. gr.x.-xx. 

Aquae    ad     |  i. 

M. 

S.    Eye  lotion. 

Borax  is  perhaps  more  appropriate  in  the  mouth,  being 
alkaline.  It  is  applied  by  swab,  in  saturated  solution,  for 
aphthous  and  other  forms  of  stomatitis.  A  saturated  solu- 
tion (4  per  cent.)  of  boric  acid  is  useful  as  an  injection  for 
ozoena,  cystitis  and  vaginitis.  Borax  in  saturated  solution 
assuages  pruritus  ani  and  vulvae,  and  is  employed  as  an 
application  for  ringworm.  Boroglyceride  is  indicated  for 
burns  aud  wounds. 

A  serviceable  antiseptic  dressing  is  made  by  soaking 
gauze  in  a  boiling  saturated  solution  of  boric  acid.  The 
dried  gauze  contains  boric  acid,  which  crystallizes  upon  it  as 
the  solution  cools.  One  paj-t  of  boric  acid  in  combination 
with  four  parts  of  zinc  oxide  forms  a  soothing,  protective 
dusting  powder  for  chafed  surfaces,  intertrigo,  erythema  and 
moist  eczema  in  dogs.  Boric  acid  is  occasionally  prescribed 
in  10  per  cent,  oiutment  for  eczema  and  psoriasis.  It  is 
perhaps  the  best  remedy  for  canker  of  the  ear  in  dogs  (otitis 
externa).  The  ear  should  be  syringed  out  with  a  2  per 
cent,  solution,  dried  with  absorbent  cotton,  and  powdered 
with  pure  boric  acid.  The  internal  uses  of  boric  acid  are 
unimportant.  It  has  been  recommended  and  given  as  an 
emmenagogue,  and  as  an  intestinal  antiseptic  in  fermenta- 
tive diarrhoea  of  foals  and  calves.  Boric  acid  is  often 
administered  in  human  medicine  to  acidify  the  urine  and 
disinfect  the  genito-urinary  tract,  although  not  so  efficient 
las  urotropin. 


ANIMAL   CHARCOAL  259 

SECTION  XII. 
Class  1.— Carbon. 

Carbon  is  represented  officially  as  follows : 

Carbo  Animalis.     Animal  Charcoal.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym.  —  Bone  black,  E.;  charbon,  Fr.;  thier  (or) 
knochen-kohle,  G. 

Derivation. — Bones  freed  from  fat  are  exposed  to  great 
heat  in  close  iron  cylinders  till  amraoniacal  vapors  pass 
off.  The  resulting  charcoal  is  pulverized  and  contains 
about  10  per  cent,  of  carbon  and  88  per  cent,  of  calcium 
phosphate  and  carbonate. 

Properties. — Dull,  black,  granular  fragments,  or  a  dull 
black  powder ;  odorless,  nearly  tasteless,  and  insoluble  in 
water  or  alcohol. 

I)ose.—U.&a,  5i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3ii.-iv.  (8.- 
15.);  D.,gr.xx.-3i.  (1.3-4.). 

PREPARATION. 

Carbo  Animalis  Parificatus.    Purified  Animal  Charcoal.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Animal  charcoal,  100,  is  boiled  with  hydrochloric 
acid,  300,  and  water  to  remove  ash.  Result  filtered  and  residue  on 
filter  paper  washed  and  dried. 

Properties.— K  dull,  black  powder,  odorless  and  tasteless;  insoluble 
in  water,  alcohol  or  other  solvents 

i)ose.— Same  as  above. 

Carbo  Lignl     Charcoal.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Wood  charcoal. 

Derivation. — Soft  wood  is  charred  by  piling  it  in  heaps, 
igniting,  and  covering  it  with  sand  and  turf  to  prevent  rapid 
combustion. 

Properties. — A  black,  odorless  and  tasteless  powder,  free 
from  gritty  matter.     Insoluble  in  water  or  alcohol. 

Dose. — Same  as  animal  charcoal. 

Action  External. — Charcoal   is   an   oxidizing  antiseptic 


260  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

and  deodorizer.  It  has  the  power,  when  dry,  to  absorb 
liquids  and  gases,  condensing  the  latter  within  its  pores.  It 
thus  both  -  absorbs  oxygen  and  gives  np  oxygen  when  in 
contact  with  oxidizable  substances. 

In  dessicating  and  oxidizing  decomposing  organic  mat- 
ter, charcoal  deprives  germs  of  their  proper  moisture  and 
food  requirements  for  growth,  but  is  not  a  true  germ 
destroyer  or  disinfectant.  Charcoal  absorbs  noxious  and 
foul  smelling  gases,  and  is  thus  a  deodorant. 

Action  Internal. — Charcoal  has  proved  serviceable  in 
certain  digestive  troubles.  Since  charcoal  loses  its  absorp- 
tive properties  so  soon  as  it  becomes  thoroughly  wet,  it 
seems  probable  that  the  beneficial  action  in  such  conditions 
is  due  to  the  charcoal  scraping  off  mucus  from  the  walls  of 
the  stomach  and  bowels,  or  to  increasing  their  vascularity 
and  peristalsis,  rather  than  to  its  absorbing  gases.  If 
administered  continually  in  large  quantities  charcoal  may 
produce  mechanical  obstruction  in  the  bowels,  and  it  i& 
therefore  employed  in  conjunction  with  laxatives. 

Uses  External. — Charcoal  is  applied  as  a  dusting  powder 
with  astringents  and  antiseptics  upon  ulcers,  galled  and  raw 
surfaces.  The  following  combination  is  useful :  charcoal,  4 
parts;  salicylic  acid,  2  parts;  burnt  alum,  1  part.  It  is  also 
used  in  flaxseed  meal  poultices  upon  foul,  sloughing  parts. 
Animal  charcoal  is  better  than  wood  charcoal  as  an  absor- 
bent, although  the  unpurified  bone  black  is  said  to  be  more 
efficient,  since  the  mineral  matters  separate  the  carbon  par- 
ticles and  aid  its  absorptive  power. 

Uses  Internal. — Charcoal  is  employed  occasionally  in 
indigestion,  chronic  gastric  and  iutestinal  catarrh,  tympa- 
nitis and  diarrhoea,  accompanied  by  mucous  discharges. 
Charcoal  possesses  the  power  of  attracting  and  holding 
alkaloids  in  its  subtance,  and  so  may  be  used  in  large  doses 
as  an  antidote  in  poisoning  by  alkaloidal  drugs,  as  opium, 
nux  vomica  and  aconite.  Its  action  is  slow,  and  other 
means,  as  tannic  acid,  emetics  and  the  stomach  tube,  are 
more  efficient 


CARBON  BISULPHIDE  261 

Carbonei  Disulphidum.     Carbon  Disulphide.    C  B^. 

(U.S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Carbonii  bisulphidura,  bisulphide  of  carbon, 
carbon  sulphide,  E.;  carboneum  sulphuratum,  alcohol  sul- 
furis,  P.  G.;  sulfure  de  carbone,  Fr.;  schwefelkohlenstoff,  G. 

Derivation.  —  Obtained  from  carbon  and  sulphur  by 
distillation. 

Properties. — A  clear,  colorless,  highly  refractive  liquid; 
very  diffusive,  having  a  strong,  characteristic,  but  not  fetid 
odor,  and  a  sharp,  aromatic  taste.  Soluble  in  535  parts  of 
water;  very  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  and  fixed 
volatile  oils.  Spec.  gr.  1.268  to  1.269.  Carbon  disulphide 
vaporizes  readily  and  is  highly  inflammable. 

Actions  and  Uses. — Carbon  disulphide  is  a  rapid  and 
powerful  anaesthetic  when  inhaled,  and  also  locally,  when 
applied  in  spray  upon  the  skin.  It  produces  muscular 
weakness,  coma,  and,  rarely,  convulsions  in  toxic  doses.  It 
has  been  used  as  a  counter-irritant  in  the  form  of  vapor,  to 
cause  absorption  of  enlarged  lymphatic  glands.  Recently, 
favorable  results  have  been  reported  by  Perroncito,*  with 
carbon  disulphide  given  in  gelatine  capsules  to  horses  to 
destroy  the  larvae  of  the  bot  fly  (oestrus  equi).  Three  cap- 
sules, containing  10  grams  each,  for  a  horse,  or  8  grams 
each  for  a  colt,  should  be  given  at  hour  intervals,  and 
followed  in  12  hours  by  a  pint  of  oil. 

Class  2. — Alcohol,  Ether  and  Chloroform. 

Alcohol.     Alcohol.     C^H.OH.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Contains  varying  amounts  of  absolute  alcohol. 

Synonym. — Spiritus  rectificatus,  B.  P.;  spiritus  vini  rec- 
tificatissimus,  alcohol  vini,  rectified  spirit,  E.;  alcool,  Fr.; 
weingeist,  G.;  spiritus,  P.  G. 

*  Four,  de  Med.  Vet.     Sept.  '96. 


262  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Alcohol  is  derived  directly  from  fruit  sugar,  and  indi- 
rectly from  starch.  The  grains,  as  wheat,  rye,  corn ;  and 
potatoes,  supply  starch  most  economically.  The  starch  in 
these  substances  is  converted  into  glucose  by  heating  with 
very  dilute  sulphuric  acid,  or  by  fermentation  with  malt. 
Glucose  is  further  acted  upon  by  yeast  containiug  the  torula 
cerevisise,  which  converts  15  per  cent,  of  glucose  into  alcohol 
and  carbonic  dioxide.     CeHi^Oe  =  2  C^  H^  O  H  +  2  C  0^. 

The  weak  alcohol  resulting  is  subjected  to  repeated 
distillation  until  sufficiently  pure  and  concentrated.  In  the 
natural  fermentation  of  fruit  sugar  in  grape  juice,  during 
the  formation  of  wine,  the  amount  of  alcohol  is  self-limited 
to  15,  rarely  20  per  cent.,  since  the  ferment  is  killed  by  an 
amount  of  alcohol  greater  than  this. 

Derivation. — The  official  alcohol  is  derived  from  rectified 
spirit  (84  per  cent,  alcohol,  by  weight),  by  maceration,  first 
with  anhydrous  potassium  carbonate,  then  with  freshly 
fused  calcium  chloride,  and  finally  by  distillation. 

Properties. — ^A  liquid  composed  of  about  91  per  cent.,  by 
weight,  or  94  per  cent.,  by  volume,  of  ethyl  alcohol  (CjH^O 
H),  and  about  9  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  water.  A  transpa- 
rent, colorless,  mobile  and  volatile  liquid,  of  a  characteristic, 
rather  agreeable  odor,  and  a  burning  taste.  Spec.  gr.  about 
.820  at  15^  C.  (59^  F.).  Miscible  with  water  in  all  propor- 
tions and  without  any  trace  of  cloudiness.  Also  miscible 
with  ether  or  chloroform.  It  is  readily  volatile  at  low  tem- 
peratures, and  boils  at  78^  C.  (172.4^  R).  It  is  inflammable 
and  burns  with  a  blue  flame. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  5i.-iiL  (30.-90.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3ii.-iv. 
(8.-15.);  D.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.). 

PREPARATION. 

Alcohol  Dilutum.    Diluted  AlcohoL    (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym.— Sy^iritM^  tenuior,  B.  P. 

A  liquid  composed  of  about  41  per  cent.,  by  weight,  or  about  48.6 
per  cent.,  by  volume,  of  absolute  ethyl  alcohol  (Ca  Hs  O  H),  and  about 
59  per  cent,  of  water.    (U.  S.  P. ) 

Derivation. — Alcohol,  500;  distilled  water,  500. 


ALCOHOL  263 

Alcohol  Absolutum.     Absolute  Alcohol.     C^  Hg  O  H. 

(U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Alcohol  ethylicum,  B.  P. 

Ethyl  alcohol,  coataiDing  not  more  than  1  per  cent.,  by 
weight,  of  water. 

Derivation. — Percolation  of  the  purest  alcohol  through 
quicklime,  out  of  contact  with  the  air,  and  redistillation  in 
vacuo. 

Properties. — Transparent,  colorless,  mobile  jnd  volatile 
liquid,  of  a  characteristic,  rather  agreeable  odor,  and  a 
burning  taste.  Very  hydroscopic.  Spec.  gr.  not  higher 
than  0.797  at  15^  C.  (69°  F.) 

Alcohol  Deodoratum.     Deodorized  Alcohol.     (U.  S.  P.) 

A  liquid  composed  of  about  92.5  per  cent.,  by  weight, 
or  95.1  per  cent.,  by  volume,  of  ethyl  alcohol  (Cj  Hj  O  H), 
and  about  7.5  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  water. 

Derivation. — Distillation  of  alcohol  with  about  2  per 
per  cent,  of  pure  fused  sodium  acetate. 

Properties. — Similar  to  alcohol,  except  as  regards  odor. 

Spiritus  Frumentl     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Eau-de-vie  de  grains,  Fr.;  whiskey  korn- 
branntwein,  G. 

Derivation. — An  alcoholic  liquid  obtained  by  the  distil- 
lation of  the  mash  of  fermented  grain  (usually  of  mixtures 
of  corn,  wheat  and  rye),  and  at  least  two  years  old. 

Properties. — An  amber-colored  liquid,  having  a  distinc- 
tive odor  and  taste,  and  a  slightly  acid  reaction.  Its  specific 
gravity  should  not  be  more  than  0.930,  nor  less  than  0.917, 
corresponding,  approximately,  to  an  alcoholic  strength  of 
44  to  50  per  cent.,  by  weight,  or  50  to  58  per  cent.,  by 
volume.  Contains  no  more  than  traces  of  fusel  oil.  The 
alcoholic  liquors  owe  their  flavor  or  bouquet  to  ethers  which 
are  only  developed  in  course  of  time.     The  amylic  alcohol, 


264  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

or  fusel  oil  in  whiskey  is  therefore  converted  into  ethers, 
which  give  the  characteristic  flavor  to  whiskey. 

Dose.—TI.  and  C,  Jii.-iv.  (60.-120.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  5  i.-ii. 
(30.-60.);  D.,  3i.-iv.  (4.-15.). 

Spiritus  Yini  Gallici.     Brandy.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Spirit  of  French  wine,  E.;  eau-de-vie,  cognac, 
Fr.;  Frantzbranntwein,  G. 

Derivation. — An  alcoholic  liquid  obtained  by  the  distil- 
lation of  the  fermented  unmodified  juice  of  fresh  grapes,  and 
at  least  four  years  old. 

Brandy  is  somewhat  astringent  and  is  often  not  made 
from  the  distillation  of  wine,  but  is  a  factitious  preparation. 
Native  brandy  is  said  to  be  purer,  but  is  usually  inferior  in 
flavor  to  that  of  foreign  manufacture. 

Dose. — Same  as  that  for  whiskey. 

Spiritus  Juniperi  Compositus.   Compound  Spirit  of  Juniper. 

(U.  S.  P.) 

Derivation. — Oil  of  juniper,  8 ;  oil  of  caraway,  1 ;  oil  of 
fennel,  1;  alcohol,  1,400;  water  to  make  2,000. 

Compound  spirit  of  juniper  is  similar  to  gin  in  its  thera- 
peutic action.  Contains  about  15  per  cent,  more  alcohol. 
Gin  is  made  by  distillation  of  fermented  malt  and  juniper 
berries.  Gin  differs  from  the  other  alcoholic  preparations 
therapeutically  in  being  more  diuretic. 

Dose, — Same  as  that  for  whiskey. 

Rum.     (Not  official.) 

Rum  is  made  from  a  fermented  solution  of  molasses  by 
distillation.  It  contains,  by  weight,  from  40  to  50  per  cent, 
of  absolute  alcohol.  Rum  does  not  differ  physiologically 
from  alcohol.  There  is  no  authoritative  Latin  name  for 
rum. 

Dose. — Same  as  that  for  whiskey. 


ALCOHOL  265 

ViNUM  Album.     White  Wine.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Derivation. — An  alcoholic  liquid  made  by  fermenting 
the  juice  of  fresh  grapes,  the  fruit  of  vitis  vinifera  (nat.  ord. 
vitacese),  free'  from  seeds,  stems,  and  skins. 

Properties.  —  A  pale  amber  or  straw-colored  liquid, 
having  a  pleasant  odor,  free  from  yeastiness,  and  a  fruity, 
agreeable,  slightly  spirituous  taste,  without  excessive  sweet- 
ness or  acidity.  The  Pharmacopoeia  directs  that  the  wine 
should  contain  from  10  to  14  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  absolute 
alcohol.  California .  Hock  and  Reisling,  Ohio  Catawba, 
Sherry,  Muscatel,  Madeira  and  the  stronger  wines  of  the 
Rhine,  Mediterranean,  and  Hungary,  come  within  the  phar- 
macopoeial  limits.  Wines  containing  more  than  14  per  cent, 
of  alcohol,  are  usually  fortified,  i.  e.,  have  alcohol  or  brandy 
added  to  them,  and  much  imported  Sherry  and  Madeira 
contain  15  to  20  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  absolute  alcohol. 

YiNUM  RuBRUM.     Red  Wine.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Derivation. — An  alcoholic  liquid  made  by  fermenting 
the  juice  of  fresh  colored  grapes,  the  fruit  of  vitis  vinifera 
(nat.  ord.  vitacese),  in  presence  of  their  skins. 

Properties. — A  deep-red  liquid,  having  a  pleasant  odor, 
free  from  yeastiness,  and  a  fruity,  moderately  astringent, 
pleasant  and  slightly  acidulous  taste,  without  excessive 
«weetnes3  or  acidity.  Should  contain  not  less  than  10,  nor 
more  than  14  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  alcohol.  Native  Claret, 
Burgundy,  Bordeaux,  and  Hungarian  wines  may  be  included 
within  the  pharmacopoeial  limits  of  vinum  rubrum.  Port 
{vinum  portense)  is  fortified  with  braudy  during  fermenta- 
tion, and  contains  15  to  25  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of  absolute 
alcohol.  Port  is  astringent  from  tannic  acid  in  the  grapes, 
skins  and  stalks,  or  the  astringency  may  be  due  to  logwood. 

Red  wines  are  said  to  be  rough,  contain  tannic  acid  and 
therefore  are  astringent.  Dry  wines  are  those  which  con- 
tain little  sugar.  The  wines  develop  ethers  with  age,  and 
these  improve  their  flavor  and  action. 


266  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

Champagne  contains  about  10  per  cent,  of  absolute 
alcohol  and  carbonic  acid  gas,  which  acts  as  a  local  sedative 
upon  the  stomach.  Ale,  stout  and  beers  contain  from  4  to 
8  per  cent,  of  alcohol,  together  with  bitters  and  malt  extracts. 
Cider  contains  5  to  9  per  cent,  of  absolute  alcohol.  Imported 
Sherry  (vinum  xericum,  B.  P.),  15  to  20  per  cent,  of  absolute 
alcohol.  Alcohol  is  the  solvent  most  commonly  employed 
in  pharmacy,  dissolving  alkaloids,  resins,  volatile  oils,  bal- 
sams, oleo-resins,  tannin,  sugar,  some  fats  and  fixed  oils. 

Action  External. — Alcohol  is  a  germicide.  When  applied 
in  dilution  to  mucous  membranes,  raw  surfaces  or  wounds, 
alcohol  is  a  stimulant,  antiseptic  and  local  anaesthetic ;  while 
in  concentration,  it  is  irritant  and  even  caustic,  coagulating 
mucus  and  albumin.  If  alcohol  is  allowed  to  evaporate 
from  the  unbroken  skin,  cooling  of  the  surface  and  contrac- 
tion of  the  superficial  blood  vessels  ensue,  with  diminished 
secretions  of  sweat ;  but  when  alcohol  is  rubbed  into  the 
skin,  it  is  absorbed,  takes  up  water,  hardens  the  integument 
and  causes  temporary  vascular  dilatation. 

Adixm  Internal. — Alcohol  acts  locally  upon  the  mucous 
membrane  of  the  alimentary  canal,  as  described  above,  and 
if  swallowed  in  concentration  it  produces  congestion  and 
white  patches  in  the  mouth  by  coagulating  albumin  upon 
the  mucous  membrane.  The  secretion  of  saliva  is  increased. 
In  small  doses  the  more  powerful  alcoholic  liquors,  as  whis- 
key and  brandy,  aid  digestion  by  stimulating  locally  the 
gastric  circulation,  secretion,  movement  and  appetite. 

During  and  immediately  after  ingestion  of  undiluted 
stronger  alcoholic  liquors,  and  before  there  is  time  for 
absorption  to  occur,  the  heart  is  reflexly  stimulated  by  the 
irritant  action  of  the  alcohol  upon  the  sensory  nerve  endings 
in  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth,  gullet  and  stomach. 
In  large  amounts,  alcohol  destroys  the  action  of  the  peptic 
ferment,  causes  inflammation  of  the  walls  of  the  stomach 
and  perverts  the  normal  secretion  into  a  mucous  discharge. 
Alcohol  in  physiological  doses  may  be  slightly  decomposed 
in  the  stomach  with  the  formation  of  aldehyde  and  acetic 


ALCOHOL  267 

acid,  which  may  precipitate  some  of  the  proteids,  peptones 
and  pepsin.  This  action  is  not  sufficient  to  interfere  with 
the  stomachic  effect  of  alcohol.  Alcohol  is  slightly  astrin- 
gent in  the  digestive  tract,  and  may  relieve  pain  by  its  local 
anaesthetic  action  upon  the  stomach,  and  spasm,  by  stimu- 
lating the  nervous  mechanism  controlling  the  stomach  and 
bowels,  and  so  coordinating  the  peristaltic  movements. 

Circulation. — Alcohol  is  absorbed  into  the  blood  and 
undergoes  decomposition  in  the  body.  When  alcohol  is 
mixed  with  blood,  outside  of  the  body,  coagulation  occurs, 
and  separation  of  haemoglobin  from  the  corpuscles.  The 
blood  does  not,  under  these  circumstances,  yield  its  oxygen 
readily  to  reducing  agents.  In  rapid  alcoholic  poisoning 
the  corpuscles  have  been  found  shrivelled  and  containing 
a  yellow  precipitate  of  haemoglobin  in  their  substance. 
Alcohol  diminishes  oxidation  in  the  body  by  hindering  the 
oxy haemoglobin  from  giving  up  its  oxygen,  but  this  action 
does  not  occur  until  large  quantities  have  been  absorbed. 

Alcohol  is  essentially  a  heart  stimulant  and  the  most 
valuable  one  we  possess.  It  makes  the  heart  beat  more 
forcibly  and  rapidly,  and  also  increases  blood  pressure, 
despite  the  fact  that  normally  alcohol  causes  dilatation  of 
the  arterioles.  In  weakened  bodily  conditions,  with  vascu- 
lar relaxation,  alcohol  may  increase  vascular  tonicity.  The 
heart  and  blood  vessels  are  paralyzed  by  poisonous  doses  of 
alcohol,  and  blood  tension  falls  tremendously.  Evidence  is 
contradictory  in  relation  to  the  exact  physiological  action  of 
alcohol  upon  the  nervous  mechanism  controlling  the  heart 
and  blood  vessels.  The  action  upon  the  heart  is  thought 
by  some  experimenters  to  be  due  to  the  stimulation  of  the 
accelerator  nerves  (Dogiel);  by  others  to  stimulation  of  the 
cardiac  motor  ganglia;  while  Wood  refers  the  action  to 
excitation  of  the  heart  muscle.  It  is  also  uncertain  whether 
the  action  upon  the  vessels  is  due  to  the  effect  of  alcohol 
upon  the  vasomotor  system  entirely,  or  in  part  to  direct 
action  upon  the  vessel  walls.  The  fact  that  the  heart  is 
reflexly  stimulated   by  the  irritant   action   of   large  dose$ 


268  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

of  concentrated  alcoliolic  liquors  upon  the  stomacli,  Las 
already  been  noted.  Primary  vascular  contraction  may  fol- 
low the  reflex  stimulation  of  alcohol  before  absorption  and 
vascular  dilatation  occur. 

Respiration. — The  respiratory  centre  is  stimulated  by 
medicinal  doses,  but  depressed  and  paralyzed  by  toxic 
amounts  of  alcohol. 

Temperature.  —  The  temperature,  both  in  health  and 
fever,  may  be  lowered  by  alcohol,  because  of  its  action  in 
hindering  the  ozonizing  functions  of  the  red  blood  corpuscles 
and  thus  diminishing  oxidation  in  the  body,  and  because 
alcohol  causes  relaxation  of  the  peripheral  blood  vessels 
and  loss  of  heat  by  radiation  from  the  skin.  The  larger  the 
quantity  of  alcohol  ingested,  the  greater  the  fall  of  tempera- 
ture. In  alcoholic  narcosis,  vasomotor  paralysis  leads  to 
great  loss  of  heat,  particularly  if  the  animal  be  at  the  same 
time  exposed  to  cold.  In  small  doses,  alcohol  may  some- 
times increase  the  temperature  by  stimulating  the  heart, 
but  the  sensation  of  warmth  perceived  in  man  following  the 
use  of  alcohol  is  generally  fallacious,  and  is  simply  due  to 
flushing  of  the  vessels  of  the  skin  and  stomach.  Some  of  the 
lowest  temperatures  ever  observed  have  been  in  drunken 
persons  exposed  to  cold. 

Tissue  Change. — Metabolism  is  diminished  by  alcohol. 
Experiments  conducted  to  determine  quantitatively  the 
-elimination  of  carbonic  dioxide  are  conflicting  in  their 
results,  after  the  ingestion  of  small  doses  of  alcohol,  but 
•when  considerable  quantities  have  been  absorbed  the  elimi- 
nation of  carbonic  dioxide  is  decidedly  diminished.  The 
explanation  of  the  preceding  is  clear  when  it  is  considered 
that  many  other  circumstances  may  obscure  the  action  of 
small  amounts  of  alcohol  upan  carbonic  dioxide  elimination. 
The  nitrogenous  products  in  the  urine,  particularly  urea 
resulting  from  tissue  change,  are  also  lessened  by  alcohol. 

Nervous  System. — Moderate  doses  of  alcohol  stimulate, 
while  excessive  quantities  depress  and  paralyze  the  nervous 
system.     This  action  is  similar  to  that  exerted  upon  the 


ALCOHOL  269 

circulatory  organs.  The  local  effect  of  alcohol  upon  the 
peripheral  nerves  resembles  the  action  after  absorption 
upon  the  system  generally.  The  nervous  system  is  affected 
in  nearly  the  same  order  and  manner  as  by  anaesthetics,  and 
the  same  stages  may  be  observed.  The  stages  include  the 
stimulant,  depressant  and  paralytic.  The  law  of  dissolution 
is  demonstrated  by  alcohol,  as  the  more  highly  organized 
centres,  and  those  more  recently  developed  in  the  process 
of  evolution,  are  the  first  to  succumb,  and  following  out  this 
order,  the  medulla,  the  first  of  the  higher  centres  to  be 
developed,  is  the  last  to  be  influenced  by  the  drug.  In 
accordance  with  this  law  the  cerebrum  is  first  acted  upon. 
The  period  of  excitement  is  brief  and  is  due  in  a  consider- 
able degree  to  the  increased  cerebral  circulation  and  flushing 
of  the  brain.  It  is  essential  to  emphasize  the-  fact  that  by 
far  the  most  apparent  and  decided  action  of  alcohol  is  one 
of  depression  upon  the  nervous  system  as  a  whole.  The 
stimulating  influence  of  alcohol  upon  the  spinal  centres  is 
more  marked  in  the  lower  animals  than  in  man,  because  the 
brain  is  proportionately  small  and  poorly  developed  in  the 
former.  The  primary  stimulating  effect  of  alcohol  is  shown 
in  man  by  increased  mental  activity  and  apparent  brilliancy, 
but  acute  reasoning  and  judgment  are  not  enhanced,  and  in 
many  cases  there  is  almost  immediate  mental  confusion  and 
drowsiness  induced.  In  man  there  is  emotional  excitement 
and  the  functions  of  speech  and  imagination  are  stimulated 
in  the  primary  stage,  but  depression  is  soon  noted  in  the 
loss  of  judgment  and  reasoning  power,  emotional  control, 
decent  restraint  and  speech.  The  patient  cries,  shouts, 
sings  or  laughs  and  talks  incoherently.  In  the  lower 
-animals  the  stimulation  of  the  higher  and  sensory  psychical 
cerebral  centres,  with  exhilaration,  is  rarely  observed,  but 
depression  is  seen  in  stupor  and  muscular  incoordination. 
Stimulation  of  the  cerebral  motor  centres  is  shown  by  motor 
excitement. 

In  man,  following  the  symptoms  described  above,  there 
is  incoordination  of  muscular  movements,  first  of  those  more 


270  INOKOANIC  AGENTS 

highly  and  recently  organized,  such  as  are  employed  in 
writing,  and  then  the  muscular  movements  more  remotely 
developed  are  affected,  and  the  person  is  unable  to  walk, 
and  fiually  there  is  complete  paralysis  of  the  motor  centres 
and  muscles.  The  staggering  and  uncertain  gait  of  drunken 
people  occurs  not  only  because  the  cerebral  motor  and 
cerebellar  centres  are  depressed  by  alcohol,  but  also  because 
of  loss  of  sensation  and  touch,  or  muscular  sense,  which  is 
essential  in  maintaining  the  equilibrium.  In  relation  to  the 
spinal  cord,  primary  stimulation  of  the  reflex  centres  is 
more  marked  in  animals  than  in  man,  as  has  been  pointed 
out.  In  animals  this  stimulation  causes  motor  excitement, 
so  that  the  patient  trembles,  jumps  about,  or  strikes  out 
with  the  feet.  Depression  of  the  reflex  centres  occurs  in 
the  latter  stage  of  poisoning,  and  is  exhibited  by  involuntary 
defsecation  and  micturition ;  sensation  and  voluntary  motion 
are  lost.  The  motor  nerves  and  muscles  are  not  generally 
paralyzed,  except  by  the  local  action  of  alcohol.  The 
medulla  finally  becomes  depressed  and  paralyzed,  so  that 
respiration,  which  is  first  stimulated,  now  fails,  and  the 
heart  muscle  becomes  paralyzed  and  stops  beating. 

The  action  of  alcohol  upon  the  nervous  system  may  be 
summarized  with  a  fair  degree  of  accuracy,  as  stimulation 
and  then  depression  of  the  parts  enumerated  below,  and  in 
the  following  order : 

Cerebral  psychical  centres.       >     Spinal  centres. 
Cerebral  sensory  centres.  Sensory,  reflex  and  motor. 

Cerebral  motor  centres.  Medullary  centres. 

Cerebellum.  Vasomotor  (early  depression) . 

Respiratory. 

Horses  and  dogs  are  comparatively  susceptible  to  alco- 
hol, ruminants  slightly  so.  An  amount  of  alcohol  equivalent 
to  a  pint  of  whiskey  has  killed  a  sound  horse,  while  four 
ounces  of  whiskey  will  cause  death  in  dogs  if  vomition  be 
prevented  by  ligature  of  the  oesophagus. 

Primary  motor  excitement  is  followed  by  unsteady, 
staggering  gait,  and  coma  in  fatal  cases. 


ALCOHOL  271 

Shin. — Alcohol  dilates  the  peripheral  vessels,  and  there- 
fore brings  more  blood  to  the  sudoriparous  glands,  and 
excites  their  functional  activity.     It  is  thus  a  diarphoretic. 

Kidneys.  —  Alcohol  acts  as  a  diuretic  by  increasing 
general  blood  tension,  and  probably  by  augmenting  local 
vascular  tension  in  the  kidney  in  dilating  the  afferent  vessels 
supplying  the  malpighian  bodies. 

Nutrition. — Alcohol  is  a  food,  and,  like  other  carbohy- 
drates, supplies  heat  and  energy  in  its  decomposition,  but 
does  not  directly  furnish  tissue  elements.  *We  are  ignorant 
of  the  fate  of  alcohol  after  absorption,  but  we  do  know  that 
the  greater  portion  is  decomposed  and  is  not  eliminated. 
Alcohol  is  most  advantageous  as  a  food  in  fever,  or  in  condi- 
tions associated  with  weak  digestion,  since  it  is  readily 
absorbed  and  assimilated.  Alcohol  causes  dulness  and 
lessened  power  for  mental  or  physical  work  in  man,  and  in 
normal  conditions  is  not  a  desirable  food  unless  there  is  a 
deficiency  in  the  ordinary  diet.  In  diminishing  oxidation  in 
the  body,  alcohol  assists  the  accumulation  of  fat. 

Elimination.  —  When  alcohol  is  ingested  in  ordinary 
doses  it  is  practically  all  consumed,  and  none  but  the  most 
trivial  amount  is  eliminated,  i.  e.,  two  to  three  per  cent. 
The  greater  the  quantity  absorbed  the  larger  the  amount 
eliminated  by  the  urine,  breath,  sweat  and  faeces,  both  rela- 
tively and  absolutely;  but  under  no  circumstances  after  the 
most  enormous  doses  does  the  elimination  exceed  25  per 
cent,  of  the  quantity  ingested. 

Summary. — Alcohol  is  externally  refrigerant,  astringent, 
anhidrotic  and  antiseptic,  and  if  applied  so  that  absorption 
occurs,  it  is  rubefacient.  On  raw  surfaces  it  is  slightly 
anaesthetic.  Alcohol  is  internally  a  stomachic,  carminative 
and  slight  local  anaesthetic  in  the  digestive  tract.  It  stimu- 
lates the  heart  reflexly  before  and  directly  after  absorption, 
and  excites  the  respiratory  centre.  Alcohol  is  a  narcotic, 
first  stimulating  and  then  depressing  the  nervous  system. 
Alcohol  forms  a  compound  with  haemoglobin  which  gives  up 
oxygen  less  easily,  and  so  diminishes  oxidation  and  tissue 


272  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

change.  It  supplies  force  and  is  a  food.  Alcohol  is  a 
diuretic,  diarphoretic,  and  antipyretic  in  lessening  tissue 
change  and  dilating  peripheral  vessels,  and  in  causing 
sweating. 

Acute  Poisoning. — In  coma  and  muscular  relaxation,  the 
treatment  consists  in  the  external  application  of  heat  and 
counter-irritant;  while  strychnine,  digitalis  and  atropine 
should  be  given  subcutaneously  and  followed  up  with 
ammonia  by  the  mouth. 

Uses  External. — Alcohol  is  applied  to  the  unbroken  skin, 
on  cotton  or  lint,  to  bruises,  for  its  local  refrigerant  and 
astringent  action  in  relieving  pain  and  congestion.  Diluted 
with  one  or  two  parts  of  water,  alcohol  forms  an  antiseptic 
and  local  anaesthetic  application  to  wounds,  and  like  most 
antiseptics,  relieves  itching,  particularly  when  combined 
with  1  to  2  per  cent,  of  carbolic  acid. 

Uses  Internal.  —  Digestive  Tract.  —  Alcohol  is  a  useful 
remedy  to  promote  appetite  and  assist  digestion.  The  drug 
should  be  given  immediately  before  eating  or  v/ith  the  food, 
properly  diluted,  and  often  advantageously  with  egg  and 
milk  during  fever  or  convalescence  from  acute  diseases. 
Alcohol  is  frequently  combined  with  bitters,  as  compound 
tincture  of  gentian,  when  employed  as  a  stomachic. 

Acute  Diseases. — Alcohol  finds  its  greatest  field  of  useful- 
ness in  the  treatment  of  febrile  diseases,  notably  influenza 
and  pneumonia  in  horses.  A  high  temperature  does  not 
contra-indicate  the  use  of  alcohol,  but  it  is  not  desirable  in 
the  first  stages  of  acute  inflammatory  disorders.  Alcohol 
is  particularly  serviceable  in  asthenic  diseases,  and  in 
continued  fevers  associated  with  general  depression,  as 
septicaemia.  Alcohol  is  more  readily  burned  up  in  fever, 
aids  digestion,  lessens  oxidation  and  tissue  waste,  supplies 
force  and  is  a  food.  Alcohol  stimulates  the  nervous  system 
and  bridges  over  a  period  when  artificial  stimulation  is 
necessary.  This  drug  may  reduce  temperature,  but  larger 
doses  are  needed  for  this  purpose  {i.e.,  to  cause  vasomotor^ 
depression  and  interference  with  the  ozonizing  functioDf  .:3 


ALCOHOL  273 

the  blood)  than  is  generally  desirable,  since  the  respiratory- 
centre  and  heart  may  be  depressed,  and  digestion  retarded. 
In  certain  conditions,  however,  as  septicaemia,  alcohol  exerts 
a  decided  antipyretic  action.  Alcohol  furthermore  favors 
antipyresis  through  its  diarphoretic  and  diuretic  properties, 
in  causing  increased  radiation  of  heat  and  elimination  of 
toxic  products.  The  most  essential  action  of  alcohol  in 
acute  diseases  consists  in  stimulating  the  heart  and  respira- 
tion, in  equalizing  the  circulation  by  overcoming  internal 
congestions  through  the  action  on  the  heart,  combined  with 
that  causing  vascular  dilatation.  Alcohol  naturally  increases 
the  force  and  frequency  of  the  normal  heart,  and  may  act 
likewise  in  fevers.  This  effect  is  undesirable,  and  for  this 
reason  alcohol  is  contra-indicated  in  the  first  stage  of  sthenic 
diseases,  but  in  fevers  associated  with  weakness  of  the  heart, 
alcohol  often  decreases  its  rapidity,  although  increasing  the 
cardiac  force.  This  action  may  be  due  to  invigoration  of  the 
weakened  organ.  Since  alcohol  does  not  always  act  uni- 
formly upon  t-he  heart  in  febrile  conditions,  we  must  be 
guided  by  its  effect  in  each  case.  The  pulse,  respiration, 
skin  and  nervous  system  are  our  guides,  and  the  object  is  to 
bring  the  functions  into  a  more  normal  condition.  Alcohol 
should  therefore  reduce  the  frequency  of  the  pulse  and 
respiration,  when  they  are  too  rapid,  and  should  make  the 
skin  moister  and  the  animal  quieter.  If  these  results  are 
obtained,  the  use  of  the  drug  should  be  persisted  in ;  if 
otherwise,  administration  should  be  stopped.  Small  and 
repeated  doses  are  more  appropriate  in  fever. 

Alcohol  is  one  of  the  most  valuable  agents  at  our  com- 
mand in  the  treatment  of  surgical  shock,  collapse,  exhaustion, 
severe  hemorrhage,  and  following  exposure  to  cold.  In 
these  conditions  it  should  be  given  hot  and  only  slightly 
diluted.  In  poisoning  by  drugs  which  depress  the  circula- 
tion, or  by  toxines  resulting  from  bacterial  infection,  alcohol 
is  an  invaluable  remedy.  Alcohol  is  a  chemical  antidote  in 
carbolic  acid  poisoning,  and  besides  overcomes  the  shock 
produced  by  the  latter ;  whiskey  or  brandy  may  be  used. 


274  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Administration. — Veterinary  practitioners  are  fortunately 
exempt  from  any  moral  considerations  in  relation  to  their 
medicinal  use  of  alcoliol.  Rum,  gin  and  whiskey  are  more 
commonly  employed  than  the  other  alcoholic  prepara- 
tions, although  diluted  alcohol  is  practically  as  valuable. 
Gin  is  indicated  when  a  diuretic  action  is  important. 
Brandy,  being  more  astringent,  is  given  to  dogs  with  diar- 
rhoea, and,  combined  with  cracked  ice  in  small  quantities, 
relieves  vomiting.  Sherry  may  also  be  administered  to  dogs 
with  advantage.  The  dose  of  the  various  alcoholic  liquids 
depends  upon  the  quantity  of  alcohol  contained  in  them. 

Animals  will  usually  take  alcoholic  preparations  volun- 
tarily if  largely  diluted  with  water,  milk  or  gruel.  Whiskey 
should  be  diluted  with  about  4  parts  of  water  when  given  in 
drench,  unless  the  reflex  action  is  desired,  when  it  is  admin- 
istered in  considerable  doses  with  an  equal  amount  of  hot 
water. 

Diluted  alcohol,  undiluted  whiskey  or  brandy  are 
injected  subcutaneously  when  a  rapid  action  is  imperative. 

^THER.    Ether.     (C,H,),0.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym.  —  ^ther  purus,  B.  P. ;  aether  fortior,  pure 
ether,  E.;  ether  hydrique  pur,  Fr.;  reiner  aether,  G. 

A  liquid  composed  of  about  96  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of 
absolute  ether  or  ethyl  oxide  l(C^'H.^)JJ],  and  about  4  per 
cent,  of  alcohol  containing  a  little  water. 

Derivation. — Obtained  by  distillation  of  alcohol  with 
sulphuric  acid.  There  are  two  steps  in  the  production  of 
ether ;  sulphovinic  acid  and  water  are  formed  in  the  first 
step,  H,S  O,  +  C,  H,0  H  -  C,  H„  H  S  O,  +  H,  O.  Sul- 
phovinic acid  is  then  further  acted  upon  by  alcohol. 

C,H„  H  S  O,  -h  C,H„  O  H  =  (C,H,),  O  4-  H,S  O,.  The 
distillate  is  freed  from  water  by  agitation  with  calcium  oxide 
and  chloride,  and  subjected  to  redistillation. 

Properties.  —  A  transparent,  colorless,  mobile  liquid, 
having  a  characteristic  odor  and  a  burning  and  sweetish 


ETHER  275 

taste.  ■  Spec.  gr.  .725  to  .728  at  59°  F.  Soluble  in  about  10 
times  its  volume  of  water  at  59°  F.  Miscible  in  all  propor- 
tions with  alcohol,  chloroform,  benzine,  benzol,  fixed  and 
volatile  oils.  Ether  boils  at  about  37°  C.  (98.6°  F.),  and  it 
should  therefore  boil  when  a  test  tube,  containing  some 
broken  glass  and  half  filled  with  it,  is  held  for  some  time  in 
the  hand.  Ether  is  highly  volatile  and  inflammable;  its 
vapor,  when  mixed  with  air  and  ignited,  explodes  violently. 
The  color  of  light  blue  litmus  paper  moistened  with  water 
should  not  be  changed  when  the  paper  is  immersed  in  ether 
for  10  minutes.  Upon  evaporation  ether  should  leave  no 
residue.  Ether  is  a  solvent  for  fats,  oils,  alkaloids,  resins, 
gutta  percha  and  gun  cotton.  Ether  vapor  is  heavier  than 
air,  and,  consequently,  etherization  should  never  be  done 
above  a  light  or  fire. 

Dose.—K,  &  C,  5  i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.); 
D.,lllx.-3i.  (.6-4.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Spiritus  uEtheris.     Spirit  of  Ether.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Ether,  325;  Alcohol,  675.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Dose. — Same  as  for  ether, 

Spiritus  j^theris  Compositus.    Compound  Spirit  of  Ether. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Synonym, — Hoffman's  anodyne.    Ether,  325;  alcohol,  650;  etherial 
oil,  25.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose. — Same  as  for  ether. 

Action  External. — Ether  evaporates  rapidly  from  the 
skin,  and  abstracts  so  much  heat  in  the  process  that  the 
superficial  parts  are  cooled,  benumbed,  and  even  frozen. 
This  action  is  taken  advantage  of  in  spraying  ether  from  an 
atomizer  upon  the  skin  (with  or  without  cocaine  injection) 
to  cause  local  anaesthesia  in  minor  surgical  operations,  as 
opening  abscesses.  The  spray  should  not  be  applied  more 
than  a  few  minutes,  or  freezing,  damage  to  the  tissues,  and 
retardation  of  the  healing  process  will  ensue.  If  ether  is 
applied  with  friction,  or  if  evaporation  from  the  skin  is 
prevented  by  bandaging,  it  will  act  as'a  rubefacient. 


276'  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Action  Internal. — Digestive  Organs. — Ether  is  an  irritant 
to  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  digestive  tract,  and  should 
be  given  only  when  considerably  diluted  with  water.  Ether 
stimulates  secretion,  motion,  and  increases  local  blood 
supply  of  the  stomach.  Ether,  in  concentration,  resembles 
alcohol  and  ammonia  in  stimulating  the  heart  reflexly,  by 
its  irritant  action  upon  the  alimentary  canal,  before  it  has 
time  to  be  absorbed.  It  relieves  pain  and  spasm  in  the 
digestive  tract  by  coordinating  or  restoring  nervous  control 
over  the  stomach  and  bowels. 

Circulation. — Ether  stimulates  the  motor  ganglia  of  the 
heart,  and. increases  its  force  and  frequency.  It  also  excites 
the  vasomotor  centres  and  increases  vascular  tension.  In 
poisonous  doses,  or  after  prolonged  inhalation,  the  circula- 
tion becomes  depressed  and  weak. 

Nervous  System. — Ether  exerts  a  primary,  transient, 
stimulating  action  upon  the  brain  and  lower  nervous  centres, 
but  rapidly  succeeding  this,  ether  depresses  and  abolishes 
the  functions  of  all  the  great  nerve  centres  in  the  following 
order,  and  with  the  following  results  : 

1.  The  cerebrum  (with  loss  of  consciousness). 

2.  Sensory  spinal  tract  (loss  of  sensation). 

3.  Motor  spinal  area  (loss  of  motion  and  partial  loss- 
of  reflex  action). 

3.  Sensory  medullary  centres. 

6.  Motor  medullary  centres  (failure  of  respiration). 

Ether  does  not  affect  the  nerves  or  muscles  when 
inhaled  or  ingested.  Ether  depresses  the  action  of  the 
nerves,  however,  when  applied  locally. 

Respiration.  —  The  respiratory  centre  is  stimulated  by 
inhalation  or  ingestion  of  therapeutic  quantities  of  ether. 
Paralysis  of  the  respiratory  centre  occurs  in  the  last  stage 
of  ether  poisoning.  Ether  vapor  is  irritant  to  the  respira- 
tory mucous  membrane,  and  causes  coughing  and  choking 
during  inhalation.  It  is  not  an  appropriate  anaesthetic, 
therefore,  in  inflammatory  conditions  of  the  respiratory 
tract.     Ether  vapor  excites  the  peripheral  ends  oi  the  trifa- 


ETHER  277 

cial  nerve  in  the  face,  and  the  vagns  nerve  in  the  lungs,  so 
that  temporary  arrest  of  respiration  often  occurs  when  a^ 
fresh  supply  of  ether  is  added  daring  inhalation. 

Temperature. —  The  temperature  of  the  body  may  be 
raised  during  •  the  stage  of  excitement  and  struggling,  but 
prolonged  etherization  leads  to  loss  of  heat,  owing  to  evapo- 
ration of  ether  from  the  lungs,  and  general  depression  of  the 
nervous  system. 

Elimination. — Ether  is  eliminated  principally  from  the 
lungs,  and  to  some  extent  by  the  kidneys,  upon  which  it 
exerts  an  irritant  action.* 

Uses. — Apart  from  its  value  as  an  anaesthetic,  ether 
is  mainly  of  service  for  two  purposes.  First  :  in  col- 
lapse, syncope,  or  "  sinking  spells,"  due  to  poisoning,  or 
natural  causes.  Ether  may  be  given  by  the  mouth,  or  sub- 
cutaneously  into  the  muscular  tissue,  to  avoid  abscess.  It 
is  to  be  compared  with,  and  is  an  efficient  substitute  for, 
nitroglycerin,  or  amyl  nitrite,  as  a  rapid,  circulatory  stimu- 
lant. Ether  should  not  be  given  as  a  stimulant,  however, 
when  such  an  agent  is  required  during  or  following  anaes- 
thesia. Second :  In  spasmodic,  or  mild,  flatulant  colic,  ether 
relieves  pain,  spasm  and  flatulence.  The  following  prescrip- 
tion will  be  found  useful  for  the  horse  : 

^theris §  i. 

Chloroformi 3  ii. 

Tine,  opii |  ii. 

M.  et  f .  haustus. 
S.     Give  at  once  in  a  pint  of  cold  water. 

Ether  is  a  good  antispasmodic  remedy  for  hiccough 
or  "thumps,"  in  the  horse,  and  has  a  narcotic  action  upon 
tape  and  lumbricoid  worms.  When  used  for  the  latter  pur- 
pose, ether  should  be  followed  by  a  purge.  Ether  may  be 
employed  in  enema  to  narcotize  and  remove  the  oxyuris 
curvula  of  the  horse. 

*  Recent  experiments  indicate  that  ether  causes  contraction  of  the 
renal  arteries,  with  diminution  in  the  size  of  the  kidneys,  suppression 
of  urine  and  albuminuria. 


278  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Administration. — Etlier  should  be  given  in  gelatine  cap- 
sules; mixed  with  two  parts  of  cracked  ice  and  water;  or 
with  equal  parts  of  brandy  or  whiskey,  to  avoid  undue 
irritation  of  ether  and  its  vapor  upon  the  mucous  membranes 
during  deglutition. 

Chloroformum.     Chloroform.     C  H  CI3.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Chloroformum  purificatum,  purified  chloro- 
form, E. ;  chloroformium,  P.  G. ;  formylum  trichloratum, 
chloroforme  pur,  Fr.;  reines  chloroformum,  G. 

A  liquid  consisting  of  99  to  99.4  per  cent.,  by  weight,  of 
absolute  chloroform,  and  1  to  0.6  per  cent,  of  alcohol. 

Derivation. —  Alcohol  and  water  are  heated  in  a  still  to 
37.7°  C.  (100°  F.),  when  chlorinated  lime  is  added  and 
chloroform  is  evolved.  The  chemical  action  is  very  compli- 
cated. Chloroform,  free  from  chlorinated  compounds,  is 
also  made  from  acetone  and  chlorinated  lime  by  distillation. 
Calcium  acetate,  hydrate  and  chloride  result  as  bye  products. 

2  (C3H,0)  +  6  (Ca  O  CI,)  =  2  (C  H  CI,)  +  Ca  (CftO,), 
+  2  Ca  0,H.  +  3  Ca  CI,. 

For  tests  and  purification,  vid.  U.  S.  P. 

Properties. — A  heavy,  clear,  colorless,  mobile  and  diffus- 
ible liquid,  of  a  characteristic,  ethereal  odor,  and  a  burning, 
sweet  taste.  Spec.  gr.  not  below  1.490  at  16°  C.  (59°  F.). 
Soluble  in  about  200  times  its  volume  of  cold  water,  and  in 
all  proportions  in  alcohol,  ether,  benzol,  benzine  and  the 
fixed  and  volatile  oils.  Chloroform  is  volatile  even  at  a  low 
temperature,  and  boils  at  60°  to  61°  C.  (140°  to  141.8°  F.). 
It  is  not  inflammable,  but  its  vapor  in  the  presence  of  a 
naked  flame  undergoes  decomposition  with  the  formation  of 
noxious  gases,  chiefly  chlorine.  This  has  caused  death 
during  chloroform  inhalations.  Chloroform  is  a  solvent  for 
fats,  resins,  oils,  balsams,  gutta  percha,  wax  and  many  alka- 
loids. 

Dose.—B..  &  C,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  Sh.  and  Sw.,  ni^xx.-xxx. 
(1.3-2.);  D.,  1l\ii.-xx.  (.12-1.3). 


CHLOROFORM  279 

PREPARATIONS. 

Aqua  Chloroformi.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
(Saturated  Solution.) 
Used  as  vehicle  in  cough  and  diarrhoea  mixtures  for  dogs. 

Linimentum  Chloroformi.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Chloroform,  300;  soap  liniment,  700.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Spiritus  Chloroformi.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Chloroform,  60;  alcohol,  940.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  §i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  D., 
3ss.-i.  (2.-4.). 

Action  External. — Chloroform  acts  as  a  rubefacient  if 
rubbed  into  the  skin,  or  prevented  from  evaporation  by- 
bandaging.  In  evaporating  from  the  surface  it  produces 
mild  refrigeration.  Chloroform  penetrates  the  skin  more 
easily  than  many  other  agents,  and  is  employed  for  this 
reason  to  aid  the  absorption  of  belladonna  and  other  drugs 
used  in  liniments.  Chloroform  possesses  some  local  anaes- 
thetic action  upon  mucous  membranes,  raw  surfaces,  or 
when  rubbed  into  the  skin. 

Action  Interned. — Digestive  Tract — Chloroform  is  an  irri- 
tant in  concentration,  but,  properly  diluted,  stimulates  the 
flow  of  saliva  and  increases  the  secretions,  motion,  and  blood 
supply  of  the  stomach.  Chloroform  has  a  local  anaesthetic 
and  antiseptic  action  in  the  alimentary  canal,  and  by  its 
stimulant  effect  in  restoring  the  normal  state  of  nervous  and 
muscular  tissue,  relieves  spasm,  pain  and  flatulence  in  the 
stomach  and  small  intestines. 

Circulation. — Chloroform,  unlike  ether,  does  not  stimu- 
late the  heart  and  vasomotor  centres,  except  for  a  very  brief 
period.  On  the  contrary,  ignoring  the  primary  and  transi- 
tory stimulant  action  just  noted,  chloroform  exerts  an  ever 
increasing  depressing  influence  upon  the  heart  muscle,  its 
ganglia,  and  the  vasomotor  centres. 

Vasomotor  depression  leads  to  dilatation  of  the  arte- 
rioles and  leaking  of  blood  into  the  veins,  with  consequent 
venous  engorgement   (particularly  of    the   abdomen),   and 


280  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

arterial  ansemia.  Failure  of  respiration  in  chloroformization 
is  secondary  to  cerebral  anaemia,  and  chloroform  kills, 
primarily  by  vasomotor  depression.  (Leonard  Hill  and 
Hare.) 

The  ventricles  dilate  and  all  cardiac  muscular  contrac- 
tility is  lost  in  fatal  poisoning.  Death,  however,  occurs 
almost  invariably  in  healthy  animals  during  chloroform 
inhalation  from  respiratory  failure  associated  with  circula- 
tory depression.  The  heart  usually  continues  to  beat  after 
cessation  of  breathing.  Death  from  syncope  occurs  occa- 
sionally, and  circulatory  depression  is  greater  and  occurs 
more  suddenly  than  with  ether.  As  chloroform  anaesthesia 
proceeds,  the  pulse  becomes  rapid  from  the  depressing 
effect  of  chloroform  upon  the  vagus  centre. 

Respiration. — Chloroform  does  not  markedly  affect  the 
respiration,  when  inhaled  for  an  ordinary  period,  or  when 
ingested  in  small  doses,  but  after  long  continued  inhalation, 
or  when  large  quantities  have  been  swallowed,  depression 
and  paralysis  of  the  respiratory  center  ensues.  Since 
asphyxia  leads  to  inhibition  and  heart  failure  —  besides 
being  dangerous  in  itself — the  respiration  should  always  be 
watched  as  carefully  during  chloroform  as  in  ether  inhala- 
tion. 

Nervous  System.  —  Chloroform  influences  the  nervous 
system  as  described  under  ether;  that  is,  the  cerebrum, 
sensory  and  motor  spinal  tract,  and  sensory  and  motor 
centres  of  the  medulla.  Chloroform,  although  generally 
following  the  order  noted,  affects  the  nervous  system 
more  rapidly,  irregularly  and  persistently  than  ether,  and 
therefore  is  more  dangerous.  It  occasionally  happens  that 
some  of  the  reflexes  are  abolished  by  chloroform  before 
sensation  has  been  annulled,  and  irritation  of  a  sensory 
nerve  produced  during  operation  may  reflexly  stimulate  the 
inhibitory  centres  (instead  of  increasing  vascular  tension  as 
in  health),  and  so  cause  hear"  failure.  Operations  should 
never  be  performed,  therefore,  under  chloroform  until  com- 
plete anaesthesia  is  secured.     The  nerves  ar«  not  influenced 


ANESTHESIA  281 

by  the  constitutional  action  of  chloroform,  although  the 
latter  is  a  local  irritant  and  anaesthetic  to  them. 

Temperature. — The  temperature  is  reduced  by  the  con- 
tinual inhalation  of  chloroform  through  its  depressing 
action  on  the  heat  producing  centres,  and  because  heat  loss 
is  increasecf  by  evaporation  of  chloroform  from  the  lungs. 

Antiseptic  Action. — Chloroform  prevents  the  growth  of 
micro-organisms,  but  does  not  influence  that  of  the  unorgan- 
ized digestive  ferments.  Chloroform's  antiseptic  properties 
may  be  utilized  in  preserving  solutions  for  subcutaneous 
injection.  Saturated  aqueous  solutions  are  used  for  this 
purpose. 

Elimination.  —  Chloroform  is  eliminated  by  the  lungs 
and  kidneys,  but  is  also  decomposed  in  part  in  the  body. 

Uses  External. —  Chloroform  is  employed  in  liniment  to 
relieve  pain  aud  produce  counter-irritation  in  muscular 
rheumatism  and  strains. 

Uses  Internal. — Chloroform  is  of  service  internally  in  the 
treatment  of  four  conditions  :  1.  Intestinal  colic.  2.  Flatu- 
lence. 3.  Diarrhoea.  4.  Cough.  Chloroform  alleviates 
pain  in  colic  by  restoring  the  functions  of  the  nervous  and 
muscular  mechanism  of  the  bowels,  by  relieving  spasm,  and 
also  by  its  local  anaesthetic  action.  It  stimulates  motion 
and  secretion  ;  it  is  an  antiseptic  in  the  digestive  tract,  and, 
in  these  ways,  overcomes  flatulence. 

Chloroform  should  be  combined  with  opium  in  diar- 
rhoea and  colic.  It  is  administered  in  spirit  or  water  to 
assuage  cough. 

Administration. — Chloroform  may  be  administered  in  3 
parts  of  glycerin ;  in  emulsion  with  white  of  egg  or  accacia ; 
or  as  the  spirit,  diluted  with  water. 

ANESTHESIA.  % 

Anaesthesia  is  commonly  divided  into  three  stages  :  the 
stimulant,  anaesthetic  and  paralytic.     The  so-called  "  law  of 
dissolution"  is  illustrated  by  anaesthetics,  as  the  more  highl 
organized  (cerebral)  centres  are  the  first  to  succumb,  wh; 


282  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

the  lower  centres  (medulla)  are  the  last  to  be  affected.  The 
acsesthetics  resemble  other  narcotics  in  producing  a  primary 
condition  of  stimulation  of  the  nervous  system,  which  is 
followed  by  depression.  In  the  first  stage  of  anaesthesia 
there  is  often  struggling  and  excitement.  This  is  partly  due 
to  the  physiological  action  of  the  drug  and  partly  to  fright. 
In  this  stage  the  functions  of  the  brain  are  stimulated  and 
then  depressed.  The  higher  functions  are  the  first  to  be 
excited,  and  the  effect  produced  is  very  similar  to  that  of 
beginning  alcoholic  intoxication.  The  lower  motor  functions 
are  next  stimulated,  inducing  struggling  and  motor  excite- 
ment. In  the  first  stage  of  etherization,  the  local  irritant 
action  of  the  vapor  causes  choking  and  coughing,  and  also 
induces  struggling.  The  respiratory  and  cardiac  centres 
are  temporarily  stimulated,  the  pulse  and  respiratory  move- 
ments are  increased  in  force  and  frequency,  and  blood 
tension  is  raised.  The  smaller  animals  may  vomit  during 
the  first  stage  of  anaesthesia.  A  sub-division  of  the  first 
stage,  sometimes  described  as  the  anodyne  stage,  occurs 
when  sensation  is  lost,  before  consciousness  and  voluntary 
motion.  Short  operations,  as  extraction  of  teeth,  have  been 
done  by  men  upon  themselves  in  the  anodyne  stage  of  anaes- 
thesia, without  pain.  The  anaesthetic  stage  is  that  condition 
characterized  by  absence  of  consciousness,  sensation,  motion, 
and  partial  loss  of  reflex  action,  and  is  that  state  suitable 
for  operations.  The  stimulating  action  of  the  anaesthetic 
has  ceased  and  there  is  now  depression  of  the  cerebral 
functions,  the  motor  and  sensory  tract  of  the  cord,  and,  to  a 
partial  extent,  the  reflex  centres.  The  muscles  are  com- 
pletely relaxed,  and  the  patient  lies  absolutely  motionless. 
The  conjunctivae  fail  to  respond  to  irritation,  i.e.,  winking  is 
not  produced  when  the  conjunctival  membrane  is  lightly 
touched  with  the  finger.  Occasionally  the  muscl+^s  are  seen 
to  be  rigid  and  twitching  during  this  stage  of  etherization, 
although  sensation  and  consciousness  are  absent.  The 
respiration  and  pulse  should  not  be  particularly  altered 
during  the  anaesthetic  stage,  unless  danger  threatens.     In 


COMPARISON   OF   ETHER   WITH    CHLOROFORM 


283 


the  last  stage,  narcosis,  or  poisoning,  is  beginning,  and  there 
itj  depression  of  the  three  great  medullary  centres,  controlling 
the  heart,  respiration  and  vascular  tension,  and  also  the 
lowest  reflex  centres  of  the  cord,  so  that  the  urine  and  faeces 
are  passed  involuntarily.  Micturition  frequently  occurs  in 
the  first  stages  of  anaesthesia  and  should  not  of  itself  be  con- 
sidered a  danger  signal.  The  pulse  becomes  rapid,  feeble 
Mud  irregular ;  the  breathing  is  at  first  stertorous,  and  then 
the  respiratory  movements  become  shallow  and  weak,  with 
considerable  intervals  intervening  between  them.  The 
pupils  are  often  dilated.  The  pupil  is  said  to  be  a  guide 
during  anaesthesia,  especially  with  chloroform,  since  it  is 
contracted  during  the  anaesthetic  stage  and  dilates  quickly 
when  danger  approaches.  Death,  however,  occurs  in  animals 
with  either  dilated  or  contracted  pupils.  With  the  former, 
probably  from  asphyxia ;  with  the  latter,  from  syncope  ;  and 
the  pupil  should  not  be  regarded  as  an  unfailing  sign.  The 
foregoing  stages  are  conventional,  and  are  not  in  any  case 
so  clearly  defined  in  practice  as  they  are  described  theoreti- 
cally upon  paper.  The  first  stage  may  be  either  absent  or 
prolonged,  and  the  last  stage  should  not  be  reached  at  all. 

COMPARISON   OF  ETHER  WITH   CHLOROFORM. 


ETHER. 

More  diffusible. 

Inflammable. 

Irritating  ;  may  induce  bronchitis 
and  nephritis. 

Administered  slightly  diluted  with 
air. 

Stimulant  to  heart,  except  in  enor- 
mous quantities. 

Stimulant  to  vasomotor  centres, 
except  as  above. 

Respiratory  centres  not  so  easily 
depressed  as  by  chloroform. 

Larger  quantity  required. 

Less  rapid:  stage  of  struggling 
and  excitement  longer. 

More  expensive. 

Fatal  from  respiratory  failure. 


CHLOROFORM. 

Vapor  heavier. 

Less  irritating. 

Not  inflammable. 

More  danger  from  shock  during 
imperfect  anaesthesia. 

Depresses  powerfully,  heart,  res- 
piratory and  vasoiiioter  centres 
in  large  doses. 

Acts  more  quickly,  profoundly, 
and  persistently. 

Smaller  quantity  required. 

Cheaper. 

Proportion  of  deaths  to  inhala- 
tions, 4  to  5  times  greater  than 
with  ether.    <* 

Death  occurs  from  respiratory  fail- 
ure combined  with  circulatory 
depression. 

Occasionally  fatality  results  from 
syncope. 


284  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

It  will  be  seen  that  all  the  advantages  are  in  lavor  of 
chloroform,  except  that  of  safety.  **  Ether  is  more  expen- 
sive than  chloroform,  but  cheaper  than  a  funeral."     (Edes.) 

ACCIDENTS  AND   DANGERS  ATTENDING  ANAESTHESIA. 

Asphyxia  may  occur  from  mechanical  obstruction  in 
the  air  passages.  The  tongue  may  fall  back  upon  the 
epiglottis  and  prevent  the  free  entrance  of  air.  The  latter 
accident  is  obviated  by  pulling  the  tongue  forward  with  the 
hand,  or,  in  the  case  of  the  smaller  animals,  by  means  of 
forceps,  or  suture  passed  through  the  tongue.  Mucus, 
blood  or  vomitus  may  obstruct  the  mouth,  pharynx,  larynx, 
or  trachea,  and  should  be  removed  if  possible  by  swabbing 
with  absorbent  cotton.*  The  head  should  be  extended  and 
the  lower  jaw  of  the  patient  held  forward  during  anaBsthesia, 
and  no  impediment  to  the  free  movement  of  the  chest  is 
allowable.  Struggling  is  to  be  avoided,  as  far  as  possible, 
since  it  leatls  to  irregular  respiration  and  asphyxia,  and 
causes  the  auaesthetizer  to  push  the  inhalation,  strains  the 
heart,  and  favors  cardiac  dilatation,  with  chloroform. 
Struggling  may  be  prevented  to  some  extent  by  giving  the 
anaesthetic  well  diluted  with  air  at  the  outset.  Asphyxia 
results  also  from  tetanic  fixation,  or  relaxation  of  the  res- 
piratory muscles.  The  signs  of  asphyxia  include  cyanotic 
mucous  membranes,  muscular  twitchings,  shallow,  feeble, 
slow  and  irregular  breathing,  with  long  intervals  between 
the  respiratory  movements,  and  dilation  of  the  pupils.  If 
death  occurs,  the  heart  continues  to  beat  after  the  breath- 
ing stops.  The  condition  of  the  diaphragm  during  etheriza- 
tion is  an  important  guide.  At  first  the  contractions  of  the 
diaphragm  are  so  vigorous  that  the  viscera  are  forced 
backward,  and  the  abdominal  wall  bulges  outward  during 
inspiration.  As  the  inhalation  is  prolonged  the  diaphragm 
becomes  flaccid  and  powerless,  the  respiratory  movements 
are  shallow,  and  the  breathing  thoracic.     The  abdominal 

*  To  prevent  excessive  secretion  of  mucus  in  the  air  passages,  it  is 
wise  to  give  atropine  subcutaneous! y  fifteen  minutes  before  etherization. 


accidi<:nt8  and  dangers  attending  anesthesia      285 

conteuis  may  then  be  drawn  forward  during  inspiration 
into  the  thoracic  cavity,  so  that  the  abdomen  is  retracted 
(Hare).  When  the  latter  condition  is  seen,  etherization 
should  be  stopped  instantly. 

Heart  failure  occurs  more  frequently  with  chloroform, 
but  does  occasionally  result  from  the  action  of  ether  upon 
animals  with  a  fatty  or  otherwise  weak  heart.  Cardiac 
depression  is  shown  by  a  weak,  irregular  and  rapid  pulse, 
and  pallor  of  the  mucous  membranes.  The  respiratory 
movements  are  sustained  after  the  heart  ceases  to  beat  in 
fatal  cases.  Operations  should  never  be  done  under 
chloroform  before  the  patient  is  fully  under  the  influence 
of  the  anaesthetic,  as  irritation  of  a  sensory  nerve  caused 
by  even  a  slight  surgical  procedure  may  cause  death  by 
reflexly  stimulating  the  vagus  and  inhibiting  the  heart. 
Such  an  accident  is  not  likely  to  occur  with  ether,  and 
minor  operations  are  often  done  with  safety  during  the 
first  stage  of  anaesthesia  (primary  anaesthesia)  when  con- 
sciousness and  sensation  are  lost  and  the  muscles  begin 
to  relax. 

Shock  from  hemorrhage,  or  prolonged  and  severe  sur- 
gical operations,  may  lead  to  fatalities  during  anaesthesia, 
and  it  sometimes  occurs  when  an  operation  is  begun  before 
the  patient  is  fully  under  the  influence  of  an  anaesthetic — 
particularly  chloroform — as  described  above.  In  practice, 
these  causes  of  danger,  i.e.,  respiratory  failure,  circulatory 
depression  and  shock,  are  usually  combined. 

We  have  already  seen  that  asphyxia  leads  to  circulatory 
disorder,  and  both  may  be  associated  with  surgical  shock. 
The  following  embraces  the  proper  treatment  of  all  these 
conditions,  and  should  be  followed  in  every  case  where 
danger  threatens  during  anaesthesia  : 

h  Remove  the  anaesthetic  and  allow  plenty  of  fresh  air. 

2.  See  that  there  is  no  mechanical  obstruction  to  the 
movements  of  the  chest,  or  to  the  free  entrance  of  air. 
Pull  forward  the  tongue  and  lower  jaw  and  extend  the 
head. 


286  INORGiNIC  AGENTS 

3.  Invert  small  animals,  particularly  with  chloroform, 
to  allow  blood  to  flow  to  the  brain. 

4.  Use  forced,  artificial  respiration  with  bellows  and 
rubber  tube  introduced  into  larynx.  Practice  ordinary 
artificial  respiration  in  small  animals  by  carrying  the  fore- 
legs outward  and  forward  till  they  meet  in  front  of  the 
head,  and  then  bring  them  back  till  they  touch,  and  com- 
press the  sides  of  the  chest.  These  movements  should  be  re- 
peated twenty  times  a  minute.  Artificial  respiration  may  be 
done  in  the  horse  by  two  persons  compressing  intermittently 
one  side  of  the  chest  with  the  knees  and  hands.  Rhythm- 
ical traction  of  the  tongue,  at  intervals  of  five  seconds,  has 
proved  successful  in  restoring  respiration.  Dash  hot  or 
cold  water  or  ether  upon  the  chest  and  epigastrium  ;  or  use 
the  faradic  battery  to  stimulate  respiration  by  moving  the 
electrodes  over  the  chest  and  abdomen. 

5.  Give  subcutaneous  injections  of  strychnine  and  digi- 
talis. Administer  nitroglycerin  on  the  tongue,  or  inhalation 
of  amyl  nitrite.  In  chloroformization,  give  strychnine  and 
atropine  hypodermatically ;  and,  in  shock,  saline  infusion 
as  below.  Do  not  use  alcohol  or  ether  as  stimulants,  for 
their  action  resembles  that  of  the  anaesthetics. 

6.  Use  hot  (115°  F.),  high,  rectal  injections  of  salt 
solution  (one  teaspoonful  to  the  quart)  in  case  of  surgical 
shock  with  feeble  pulse  and  subnormal  temperature  result- 
ing from  hemorrhage  or  other  cause.  Two  to  four  quarts 
for  large  animals,  and  one  pint  to  one  quart  for  smaller 
animals.  Saline  infusion  is  still  more  efficient.  (See  "  Saline 
Infusion,"  p.  700.) 

CHOICE  OF  AN  ANESTHETIC. 

Ether  and  chloroform  are  the  only  anaesthetics  of  any 
importance  in  veterinary  medicine.  The  A.  C.  E.  mixture, 
containing  alcohol  (one  part),  chloroform  (two  parts),  and 
ether  (three  parts),  possesses  no  particular  value,  and  is  not 
so  safe  as  ether.  While  chloroform  is  inferior  to  ether  in 
the   matter   of   safety,  it   may  be   given  to   horses  by  an 


PRACTICAL  ANESTHESIA  287 

experienced  and  careful  person  without  much  danger.  It 
is  commonly  the  most  suitable  anaesthetic  for  the  horse, 
for  the  following  reasons :  It  is  less  expensive ;  whereas 
several  pouuds  of  costly  ether  are  required  to  produce 
anaesthesia,  a  few  ounces  of  chloroform  will  accomplish  the 
same  result.  Chloroform  inhalation  is  much  easier  of 
administration,  more  rapid,  and  causes  less  struggling.  It 
may  be  used  without  auy  special  inhaler,  and  may  be  given 
to  animals  in  the  upright  position. 

Chloroform  may  be  employed  for  all  animals  during 
parturition,  as  it  is  less  dangerous  in  this  condition  and 
because  only  enough  is  needed  to  produce  relaxation  of 
parts  to  relieve  pain,  to  assist  dilatation  of  the  os  and 
manual  operations  done  to  rectify  faulty  position  of  the 
foetus. 

Chloroform  is  indicated  in  all  cases  where  the  actual 
cautery  is  used  in  the  neighborhood  of  the  mouth.  Ether 
is  the  most  suitable  anaesthetic  for  cats  and  dogs,  unless  the 
animal  is  suffering  from  bronchitis,  emphysema  or  asthma, 
when  chloroform  is  more  appropriate.  Chloroform,  being 
more  rapid  and  less  irritating,  may  in  any  case  be  employed 
to  begin  anaesthesia,  which  should  then  be  maintained  by 
ether. 

PRACTICAL  ANESTHESIA. 

The  horse  should  be  starved  for  twelve  hours,  and 
should  receive  a  cathartic  twenty-four  hours  before  anaes- 
thetization,  in  order  to  afford  more  room  for  the  respiratory 
movements  and  prevent  accidents  in  casting.  A  specially 
constructed  inhaler,  or  nose  bag,  strapped  about  the  head, 
may  be  employed  for  convenience.  Harger  recommends 
placing  a  sponge  wrapped  loosely  in  flannel,  in  the  upper 
nostril,  as  the  animal  lies  upon  his  side  upon  the  ground, 
and  after  a  few  minutes  a  similar  sponge  is  introduced  into 
the  lower  nostril. 

Chloroform  is  then  administered  frequently  in  drop 
doses  from  a  bottle  having  a  cork  nicked  upon  the  side 


288  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

sufficiently  to  allow  the  ausesthetic  to  flow  out  in  this  small 
quantity.  The  nostrils  should  be  previously  smeared  with 
vaseline  to  afford  protection  from  the  irritation  of  the 
chloroform.  If  the  operation  is  prolonged,  anaesthesia  may 
be  carried  on  with  ether.  It  is  not  essential  to  cast  a  horse 
before  chloroformization,  but  the  animal  should  be  con- 
trolled with  side  lines,  and  a  twitch  should  be  placed  upon 
the  nose,  unless  an  inhaler  is  used.  Since  there  is  com- 
monly more  or  less  struggling,  it  is,  however,  more  satisfac- 
tory to  cast  an  animal  before  anaesthesia  is  begun.  The 
writer  has  given  chloroform  in  several  instances  to  horses 
in  the  standing  position  until  they  fell  or  were  pushed  over 
upon  a  straw  bed,  with  the  aid  of  only  one  assistant.  In- 
thus  producing  anaesthesia,  a  sponge  covered  with  a  towel 
was  used,  and  this  was  saturated  with  about  half  an  ounce 
of  chloroform,  and  held  at  first  three  inches  from  the 
animal's  nose,  in  order  that  the  vapor  should  be  thoroughly 
diluted  with  air.  From  half  a  drachm  to  a  drachm  of 
chloroform  should  be  added  from  time  to  time,  always 
allowing  plenty  of  air,  and  inhalation  may  be  continued  for 
an  hour  with  comparative  safety. 

The  anaesthetizer  should  give  his  whole  attention  to  the 
work,  and  watch  carefully  the  respiration,  pulse  and  pupil, 
for  any  sign  of  danger.  If  any  arise,  the  anaesthetic  should 
be  removed  and  treatment  pursued  as  recommended  in  the 
previous  section. 

Dogs  should  be  fasted  for  twelve  hours  before  etheriza- 
tion, in  order  to  avoid  vomiting  during  anaesthesia.  It  is 
necessary  to  muzzle  dogs  before  anaesthesia  is  begun.  This 
may  be  done  by  tying  a  strong  tape  about  the  nose,  bringing 
both  ends  up  between  the  ears,  over  the  top  of  the  head, 
and  then  tying  them  together  in  a  knot,  and  finally  carrying 
the  ends  down,  one  on  either  side  of  the  neck,  and  fastening 
them  underneath.  A  wire  muzzle  may  be  used  to  control 
the  dog  more  conveniently,  and  the  ether  is  then  poured 
upon  a  sponge  within  the  muzzle  and  the  muzzle  is  covered 
with  cloth  to  keep  out  the  air.     If  the  extemporaneous  tape 


USES  OF  ANESTHESIA  289 

muzzle  is  employed,  ether  is  administered  by  mfeans  of  a 
cone  made  out  of  stiff  cardboard,  or  newspaper  covered  with' 
a  towel,  or  a  straw  cuff  may  be  utilized.  The  cone  should 
be  tight,  and  the  ether  is  then  poured  upon  a  sponge,  or 
absorbent  cotton,  and  introduced  within  the  cone.  If  the 
muzzle  obstructs  the  breathing,  it  can  be  loosened  after 
anaesthesia  is  secured.  While  it  is  essential  to  obtaia  a  free 
supply  of  air  in  chloroform  inhalation,  it  is  as  desirable 
that  air  should  be  somewhat  excluded  by  means  of  the  cone 
during  etherization.  One-half  ounce,  or  more,  of  ether  is 
added  from  time  to  time  as  required.  If  larger  quantities 
are  employed,  it  is  wasteful,  but  not  dangerous,  as  with 
chloroform. 

Dogs  may  also  be  anaesthetized  by  placing  them  in  a 
covered  pail,  tight  box  or  barrel,  or  by  driving  them  into 
their  kennels,  and  dropping  in  cloths,  sponges,  or  absorbent 
material  saturated  with  chloroform,  while  excluding  the 
outer  air.  The  smaller  animals  can  be  destroyed  in  a 
humane  and  satisfactory  manner  by  this  method. 

USES  OF  ANESTHESIA. 

Anaesthetics  are  not  employed  as  frequently  as  is 
desirable  in  veterinary  medicine.  Anaesthesia  entails  skilled 
assistance,  increased  expense,  and  danger ;  but,  on  the 
other  hand,  facilitates  rapidity  and  asepsis  during  opera- 
tions by  lessening  struggling,  and  should  be  employed  to 
relieve  suffering  where  a  local  anaesthetic  is  impracticable. 
The  owner  of  an  animal  should  be  made  to  understand  the 
extra  risk  and  expense  attending  operations  under  anaesthe- 
sia, and  his  consent  should  be  secured  before  using  ether 
or  chloroform. 

The  general  indications  for  anaesthetics  embrace  all 
severe,  prolonged,  and  delicate  operations.  The  more 
special  indications  are  as  follows :  In  abdominal  opera- 
tions, as  ovariotomy,  herniotomy  and  reduction  of  hernia. 
In  operations  for  retained  testicle,  scirrhus  cord,  castration, 
and  in  dystocia  to  cause  dilatation  of  a  rigid  and  otherwise 


290  INOR(iANIO  AGENTS 

undilatable  os,  to  assist  the  operator  in  remedying  faulty 
positions  of  the  foetus  by  relaxation  of  the  parts,  and  to 
facilitate  instrumental  delivery  in  bitches.  Anaesthesia  is 
also  indicated  in  removal  of  tumors,  in  arytenectomy, 
excision  of  the  eyeball  or  parts  of  the  hoof,  extraction  of 
teeth,  reduction  of  dislocations,  setting  of  fractures,  and  to 
relieve  severe  pain  in  colic,  and  to  overcome  spasm  in 
chorea,  or  convulsions  due  to  poison  or  natural  causes. 

Chloroform  is  used  to  destroy  sick,  injured  or  aged 
horses,  but  is  not  so  rapid,  convenient,  or  effective  as  the 
44  calibre  revolver,  or  rifle.  The  bullet  should  be  directed 
toward  a  point  upon  'he  forehead  at  the  intersection  of  two 
imaginary  lines  drawn  from  either  eye  up  to  the  root  of  the 
opposite  ear. 

Class  3.— Nitrites. 

« 

Spiritus  ^theris  Nitrosi.    spirit  of  Nitrous  Ether. 
(U.S.&B.P.) 

Synonym. — Sweet  spirit  of  nitre,  spiritus  nitri  dulcis, 
spiritus  nitrico  -  sethereus,  E. ;  ether  azoteux  alcoolise, 
liqueur  anodine  nitre  use,  Fr.;  versiisster  sallpetergeist,  G. 

An  alcoholic  solution  of  ethyl  nitrite  (C2H5NO2),  yield- 
ing, when  freshly  prepared,  not  less  than  11  times  its  own 
volume  of  nitrogen  dioxide  (NO). 

Derivation. — Dissolve  sodium  nitrate,  770,  in  water; 
add  deodorized  alcohol,  550 ;  introduce  sulphuric  acid,  520, 
previously  diluted  with  water ;  distil  in  flask  and  condense. 
Wash  distillate  with  ice  water  to  remove  alcohol,  with  cold 
solution  of  sodium  carbonate  to  remove  traces  of  acid ; 
agitate  with  potassium  carbonate  to  remove  traces  of  water ; 
filter,  and  add  sufficient  deodorized  alcohol  to  make  the 
mixture  weigh  22  times  the  weight  of  the  nitrous  ether  to 
which  it  was  added. 

Properties.  —  A  clear,  mobile,  volatile,  inflammable 
liquid,  of  a  pale-yellowish  or  faintly  greenish-yellow  tint. 


,B  A 


<^^ive^8i'^ 


AMYL  NITRITE  291 

having  a  fragrant  ethereal  and  pungent  odor,  free  from 
acidity,  and  a  sharp,  burning  taste.  Spec.  gr.  0.820.  Mixes 
freely  with  water  and  alcohol. 

Dose.—B..  and  C,  J  i.-iv.  (30.-120.);  Sh.  and  Sw.,  3  ii.-iv. 
(8.>15.);  D,1l\x.-3i.  (.6-4). 

Smaller  doses  every  two  hours,  diarphoretic.  Larger 
doses,  repeated  three  times  daily,  diuretic. 

Amyl  Nitris.     Amyl  Nitrite.     C^H.^NO,.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym.  —  Amylum  nitrosum,  amylsether  nitrosus, 
amylo-nitrous  ether,  E.;  azotite  d'amyl,  Fr.;  amylnitrit,  G. 

A  liquid  containing  about  80  per  cent,  of  amyl  (prin- 
cipally iso-amyl)  nitrite,  together  with  variable  quantities 
of  undetermined  compounds. 

Derivation. — Obtained  through  distillation  of  nitric  acid 
and  amylic  alcohol.  Distillate  purified  by  sodium  carbonate. 
HNO3  +  C,H,,  OH  =  C,H,,NO,  +  2  H^O. 

Froperties. — A  clear,  yellow  or  pale-yellow  liquid,  of  a 
peculiar  ethereal,  fruity  (banana)  odor,  and  a  pungent, 
aromatic  taste.     Spec.  gr.  0.870  to  0880. 

Dose  (by  inhalation). — H.,  3  8s.-i.  (2.-4.);  D.,  1T]^ii.-v. 
(.12-.3). 

When  given  internally  the  smaller  doses  should  be 
used  dissolved  in  alcohol. 


Spiritus  Glonoini.     Spirit  of  Glonoin.     CgHg  (N  Og),. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Piopenyltrinitrate,  glonoin  trinitrate,  spirit 
of  nitroglycerin,  trinitrate  of  glyceryl,  trinitin,  E. 

An  alcoholic  solution  containing  one  per  cent.,  by 
weight,  of  nitroglycerin.  It  is  probably  decomposed  in  the 
blood  with  the  formation  of  potassium  and  sodium  nitrite. 

Derivation.  —  Nitroglycerin  is  obtained  by  dropping 
pure  glycerin  upon  a  mixture  of  sulphuric  and  nitric  acids, 
kept  cool  by  ice,  and  purified  by  washing  with  water.     The 


292  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

official  one  per  cent,  solution  is.  not  explosive  unless  it 
becomes  concentrated  by  evaporation  to  an  extent  exceeding 
10  per  cent. 

Properties.  —  A  clear,  colorless  liquid,  possessing  the 
odor  and  taste  of  alcohol.  Caution  should  be  exercised  in 
tasting  it,  since  even  a  small  quantity  is  liable  to  produce  a 
violent  headache.     Spec.  gr.  .826  to  .832. 

Dose,—R.,  3ss..i.  (2.-4.);  D.,  Uti--"-  (.06-.12). 

ACTION   OF  THE   NITRITES. 

Externol. — Spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  like  ether,  produces 
a  cooling  and  local  anaesthetic  action,  owing  to  its  evapora- 
tion upon  the  skin.  Amyl  nitrite  has  a  slight  depressing 
action  upon  the  peripheral  ends  of  the  sensory  nerves. 

Internal. — The  actions  of  spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  amyl 
nitrite,  and  nitroglycerin  are  essentially  the  same.  Spirit 
of  nitrous  ether  should  contain  4  per  cent,  of  ethyl 
nitrite.  Analyses  of  68  samples  taken  at  random  from  drug 
stores,  resulted  in  showing  that  a  teaspoonful  of  the  best 
specimen  contained  as  much  ethyl  nitrite  as  a  pint  of  the 
worst,  with  all  manner  of  variations  between  these  extremes. 
To  be  of  value  as  a  nitrite,  sweet  spirit  of  nitre  should  be 
freshly  prepared  by  a  reliable  chemist. 

Circvlcdion. — The  important  action  of  the  nitrites  centres 
upon  the  heart  and  blood  vessels.  The  arterioles  all  over 
the  body  become  relaxed  and  blood  tension  is  lowered  by 
the  nitrites.  This  action  is  no  doubt  peripheral,  but  whether 
due  to  the  impression  upon  the  vasomotor  ganglia  or  mus- 
cular fibres  in  the  walls  of  the  vessels  is  uncertain.  The 
heart  beats  more  rapidly  in  consequence  of  the  lessened 
vascular  resistance,  and  because  a  diminished  blood  pres- 
sure depresses  the  vagus  centre  and  often  stimulates  the 
accelerator.  The  arterioles  being  dilated  in  the  heart,  as 
elsewhere,  there  follows  an  increased  cardiac  blood  supply, 
nutrition  and  force.  The  nitrites  also  stimulate  the  cardiac 
ganglia,  and  increase  the  force  as  well  as  the  rapidity  of  the 
heart.     This  is  shown  by  the  fact  that  in  small  doses  blood 


ACTION   OF  THE   NITRITES  293 

pressure  is  raised  by  the  nitrites,  despite  the  vascular  dila- 
tation. There  is  no  more  quickly  acting  heart  stimulant 
than  nitroglycerin. 

Nervous  System. — The  nitrites  depress,  especially,  the 
spinal  motor  centres,  and,  in  a  less  degree,  the  activity  of 
the  motor  nerves.     Reflex  excitability  is  thus  lessened. 

Muscles. — Amyl  nitrite  paralyses  muscular  tissue  when 
applied  locally ;  and  the  nitrites,  when  administered  inter- 
nally, relieve  spasm  of  muscular  tissue  by  their  depressing 
action  upon  the  motor  nerves  and  muscles. 

Kidneys. — The  nitrites  augment  the  amount  of  urine  by 
dilating  the  afferent  branches  of  the  renal  arteries  which 
supply  the  glomeruli,  and  so  increase  the  tension  within 
them.  The  other  functions  of  the  body  are  not  affected  in 
any  degree  by  medicinal  doses. 

Blood. — In  poisoning  by  the  nitrites,  the  oxidizing  power 
of  the  blood  is  lost.  Both  the  venous  and  arterial  blood 
become  of  a  chocolate  hue  from  the  conversion  of  the  normal 
oxy-haemoglobin  into  meth-hsemoglobin.  The  latter  yields 
up  oxygen  very  sparingly. 

Respiration.  —  The  respiratory  movements  may  be 
increased  both  in  force  and  frequency  by  medicinal  doses 
of  nitrites,  but  paralysis  of  the  respiratory  centre  and 
asphyxia  occurs  in  fatal  poisoning. 

Summary. — The  nitrites  dilate  arterioles,  stimulate  the 
heart,  depress  the  spinal  motor  area,  and  lessen  reflex  action. 
*They  relieve  spasm  and  increase  the  secretion  of  urine. 

Poisoning.  —  Fatal  poisoning  is  extremely  rare  as  an 
accidental  occurence.  Recovery  from  a  quantity  120  times 
greater  than  the  normal  dose  of  nitroglycerin,  has  been 
reported  in  human  practice.  The  physiological  effects  of 
the  nitrites  are  more  noticeable  in  man,  owing  to  his  bare 
skin.  Immediately  following  the  inhalation  of  amyl  nitrite, 
the  face  becomes  extremely  flushed,  and  throbbing  of  the 
vessels  of  the  head,  with  a  feeling  of  tremendous  pressure 
and  headache,  ensue.  These  symptoms  are  due  to  vascular 
dilatation.   There  is  dizziness,  the  heart  is  rapid  and  violent, 


0  294  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

and  the  pulse  full,  frequent  and  easily  compressible.  The 
respiratory  movements  are  increased.  These  symptoms 
occur  after  a  full  medicinal  dose. 

In  poisoning  there  is  pallor,  vomiting  in  man,  trembling, 
weakness,  cyanosis  and  failure  of  respiration  and  heart. 
The  treatment  is  included  in  the  administration  of  ammo- 
niacal  and  alcoholic  stimulants,  together  with  the  subcuta- 
neous injection  of  ergotin,  strychnine  and  atropine,  to 
restore  the  vascular  tone. 

The  nitrites  differ  sufficiently  to  call  for  a  word  con- 
cerning their  individual  characteristics.  It  is  important  to 
emphasize  the  fact  that  their  action,  as  a  whole,  is  transient. 
Amyl  nitrite  diminishes  vascular  tension,  as  shown  by  the 
sphygmograph,  within  a  minute  of  its  inhalation,  and  this 
condition  lasts  for  2  to  4  minutes,  with  variations  of  from 
10  to  30  minutes.  The  same  action  of  nitroglycerin  occurs 
within  6  minutes  and  lasts  from  half  to,  rarely,  an  hour  and 
a  half. 

Good  spirit  of  nitrous  ether  lowers  tension  from  45  to 
60  minutes.  In  addition  to  this  difference  in  degree,  spirit 
of  nitrous  ether  differs  somewhat  in  kind  of  action.  It  is 
more  stimulant  to  the  heart,  and  more  diuretic,  owing  to 
the  ether  it  contains.  For  the  same  reason  sweet  spirit  of 
nitre  increases  the  secretions  and  motion  of  the  upper  part 
of  the  digestive  tract,  relieves  spasm  and  is  of  some  value  in 
indigestion  and  mild  colic.  In  stimulating  the  activity  of 
the  sweat  glands,  following  its  action  in  dilating  peripheral' 
vessels,  sweet  spirit  of  nitre  is  a  useful  diarphoretic  and 
mild  febrifuge. 

It  has  been  pointed  out  that  spiritus  aetheris  nitrosi  is 
far  from  being  a  reliable  preparation  as  a  nitrite,  and  there- 
fore nitroglycerin  or  amyl  nitrite  are  preferable  where 
rapid  and  certain  vascular  dilatation  is  essential. 

USES   OF  THE   NITRITES. 

Internal. — Respiratory  Diseases. — No  drug  is  more  effi- 
cient than  spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  in  the  treatment  of  acute 


USES   OF  THE  NITRITES  295 

diseases  of  the  respiratory  tract,  as  coryza,  pliaryugitis, 
laryngitis  and  bronchitis.  Its  vahie  lies  in  its  power  of 
dilating  peripheral  vessels,  equalizing  the  circulation  and 
preventing  local  congestions. 

In  assisting  diarphoresis  and  diuresis,  sweet  spirit  of 
nitre  hastens  elimination  of  toxines  and  cools  the  body ;  and 
in  both  ways  is  useful  in  abating  fever.  The  following 
prescription  may  be  of  service  in  canine  practice  in  febrile 
conditions  : 

Tine,  aconiti irixxiv. 

Spiritus  getheris  nitrosi 3  vi. 

Potassii  bromidi §  ss. 

Liq.  Ammonii  acetatis  ad §  iv. 

M. 

Sig.    Teaspoonful  in  water  every  2  hours. 

In  asthenic  and  febrile  diseases,  as  influenza,  sweet 
spirit  of  nitre  is  of  worth,  combined  with  tonic  doses  of 
quinine  and  alcoholic  stimulants. 

The  nitrites  are  the  most  successful  remedies  in  reliev- 
ing dyspnoea,  when  due  to  spasm  of  the  bronchial  tubes,  or 
congestion  of  the  lungs.  They  relax  the  bronchioles  and 
avert  congestion  by  vascular  dilatation  and  equalization  of 
the  circulation.  Thus  the  dyspnoea  occurring  in  pneumonia, 
acute  pulmonary  oedema,  asthma  and  chronic  bronchitis,  are 
advantageously  treated  by  half-hourly  or  hourly  doses  of 
nitroglycerin. 

Cardiac  Diseases, — These  are  comparatively  rare  in  the 
lower  animals;  but,  in  general,  it  may  be  said  that  no 
remedy  is  more  useful  for  its  transient  action  in  the  severe 
dyspnoea  of  cardiac  diseases  than  nitroglycerin.  The  pas- 
sing engorgement  of  the  right  heart  and  lungs  is  relieved 
by  nitroglycerin,  which  tends  to  distribute  the  blood  about 
the  body  in  its  proper  channels,  and  thus  takes  the  load  off 
the  heart  temporarily. 

General  Stimulating  Action.  —  In  shock,  heart  failure, 
with  or  without  unconsciousness,  in  poisoning,  as  by  an 
anaesthetic,  opium,  cocaine,  etc.,  and,  in   fact,  whenever   a 


296  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

rapid,  stimulating  action  is  indicated,  there  is  no  better 
agent  to  use  than  nitroglycerin.  Absorption  is  so  rapid 
that  hypodermic  injection  is  needless. 

Nervous  Diseases. — Nitrite  of  amyl  is  invaluable  in  ward- 
ing off  epileptic  seizures  in  man,  when  warning  of  their 
approach  is  given  the  patient.  As  this  warning  cannot  be 
detected  in  the  lower  animals,  the  nitrites  are  of  less  value, 
but  may  be  combined  with  the  bromides  as  prophylactic 
agents.  The  nitrites  exert  their  favorable  effect  in  this 
condition  by  preventing  cerebral  vasomotor  spasm,  which 
is  thought  to  occur  in  epilepsy. 

Diseases  of  Urinary  Organs. — Spirit  of  nitrous  ether  is 
useful  as  a  diuretic  in  carnivora,  when  the  urine  is  concen- 
trated and  irritating  to  the  bladder.  It  is  also  a  valuable 
remedy,  for  the  same  reason,  in  acute  cystitis  of  all  animals, 
when  it  may  be  combined  to  advantage  with  potassium 
citrate,  or  acetate  and  tincture  of  aconite. 

Summary. — We  may  summarize  the  therapeutical  indi- 
cations for  the  nitrites  as  follows : 

1.  To  dilate  peripheral  arterioles  and  equalize  the 
circulation  in  internal  congestions. 

2.  To  stimulate  the  heart. 

3.  To  relieve  spasm  of  vascular,  nervous,  or  muscular 
origin. 

4.  To  increase  the  secretion  of  urine. 
Administration. — Sweet  spirit  of  nitre  is  given  by  the 

mouth,  diluted  with  water,  and  often  combined  with  alco- 
holic stimulants  (  whiskey  ),  diarphoretics  ( liq.  ammon. 
acetatis),  diuretics  (potassium  nitrate),  and  bitters  (quinine). 
Amyl  nitrite  is  administered  usually  by  inhalation  to 
the  larger  animals,  from  a  sponge ;  or  two  or  three  drops 
are  given  by  inhalation  from  a  bit  of  linen  or  cotton  to  the 
smaller  animals.  It  may  be  given  internally  on  sugar  to 
the  smaller  animals,  or  in  spirit  to  the  larger  patients.  The 
spiritus  glonoini  is  the  only  preparation  of  nitroglycerin 
in  use.  It  may  be  dropped  undiluted  upon  the  tongue  of 
the  conscious  or  unconscious  animal.     The  tongue  of  the 


CHLORAL         ,  297 

smaller  animals  may  be  frequently  moistened  with  a  small 
stick  dipped  in  the  solution,  or  it  may  be  given  in  pill  or 
tablet. 


Class  4.— Chloral. 

Chloral.    Chloral.    C^H  CI3O  +  H^O.      . 

Synonym, — Chloral  hydras,  B.  P.;  hydrate  of  chloral,  E.; 
chloratum  hydratum  crystallisatum,  P.  G.;  hydrate  de  chlo- 
ral, Fr.;  chloral  by  drat,  G. 

A  crystalline  solid,  composed  of  trichloraldehyde,  or 
chloral  with  one  molecule  of  water. 

Derivation. — Dry  chlorine  gas  is  passed  into  absolute 
alcohol  until  the  latter  is  saturated.  Aldehyde. and  hydro- 
chloric acid  first  result,  C,H,0  H  +  2  CI  =  C^H.O  +  2  H  CI. 
The  chlorine  gas  then  acts  upon  the  aldehyde,  abstracting  3 
atoms  of  hydrogen  and  replacing  3  atoms  of  chlorine,  and  so 
forms  chloral.     C^H.O  +  6  CI  =  C^H  CI3O  +  3  H  CI. 

Chloral  is  purified  first  by  distillation  with  sulphuric 
acid,  and  then  with  lime,  and  when  mixed  with  water  forms 
chloral  hydrate  (C^H  CI3O  +  H^O). 

Properties. — Separate,  rhomboidal,  colorless,  and  trans- 
parent crystals,  having  an  aromatic,  penetrating  and  slightly 
acrid  odor,  and  a  bitterish,  caustic  taste.  Slowly  volatilized 
when  exposed  to  the  air.  Freely  soluble  in  water,  alcohol 
or  ether;  also* in  chloroform,  benzol,  benzin,  carbon  disul- 
phide,  fixed  and  volatile  oils.  It  liquifies  when  triturated 
with  about  an  equal  quantity  of  camphor,  menthol,  thymol 
or  carbolic  acid.  Chloral  is  decomposed  by  caustic  alkalies, 
alkaline  earths  and  ammonia,  chloroform  being  formed,  and 
a  formate  of  the  base  produced. 

Dose.—R.  k  C,  §i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.); 
D.,  gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3). 

Action  External. — Chloral  is  a  strong  irritant  applied 
locally  in  concentration  to  the  skin  and  mucous  membranes, 
and  if  injected  under   the   skin    may   cause   abscess   and 


298  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

sloughing.  It  is  a  powerful  antiseptic,  and  relieves  itching^ 
especially  in  combination  with  camphor. 

Action  Internal. — Alimentary  Canal  —  Chloral  produces 
severe  irritation  of  the  mucous  membrane  in  concentrated 
solution  (20  per  cent,  or  over),  and  large  doses  may  cause 
vomiting  in  dogs.  The  writer  has  seen  intense  glossitis  and 
stomatitis  follow  the  breaking  of  a  gelatine  capsule,  contain- 
ing chloral,  in  the  mouth  of  a  horse. 

Blood. — Chloral  is  absorbed  into  the  blood  unchanged. 
It  was  formerly  thought  that  the  action  of  chloral  was  due 
to  chloroform  produced  by  the  decomposition  of  the  former 
in  the  alkaline  blood.  C,H  CI3O  +  KH0  =  CHC1,  + 
K  C  H  O3  (formic  acid). 

It  is  now  known  that  the  blood  is  not  sufficiently  alka- 
line to  decompose  chloral,  and  that  chloroform  is  not  found 
in  the  blood,  tissues  or  excretions,  except  in  the  case  of  the 
urine,  when  it  is  strongly  alkaline.  Moreover,  chloral  acts 
as  usual  upon  a  frog  when  the  blood  of  the  batrachian  is 
replaced  by  a  neutral  saline  solution. 

Hea7't  and  Blood  Vessels. — Chloral  in  large  doses  depres- 
ses the  action  of  the  heart  muscle,  its  contained  ganglia,  and 
the  vasomotor  centres.  It  also  produces  local  paralysis  of 
the  vascular  walls.  Blood  pressure  is  therefore  lowered. 
In  small  medicinal  doses  the  circulation  is  not  influenced 
materially,  but  in  poisoning  the  pulse  becomes  slow,  weak 
and  irregular,  and  the  heart  is  arrested  in  diastole. 

Nervous  System — The  salient  action  of  chloral  is  exerted 
upon  the  brain  and  cord.  Like  other  narcotics,  the  depress- 
ing effect  may  be  preceded  by  a  transient  and  unimportant 
excitation  of  the  brain  and  cord  ;  but  this  commonly  passes 
unnoticed,  and  the  prominent  action  of  chloral  consists,  in 
ordinary  doses,  in  depressing  the  higher  functions  of  the 
brain,  and  in  larger  doses,  the  motor  tract  of  the  cord. 
Moderate  therapeutic  doses  cause,  therefore,  dulness  and 
sleepiness  (with  contracted  pupils)  in  the  lower  animals, 
while  doses  approaching  the  toxic  limit  produce  insensibi- 
lity, coma,  paralysis  of  the  inferior  cornua,  with  loss  of  reflex 


CHLORAL  299 

action,  paraplegia,  dilated  pupils  and  anaesthesia.  These 
symptoms  may  occur  and  be  followed  by  recovery.  The 
anaesthesia  is  of  spinal  origin.  Neither  the  sensory  nerves, 
motor  nerves,  nor  muscles  are  affected  except  in  the  later 
stages  of  poisoning. 

Insensibility  to  pain  is  said,  by  Brunton,  to  follow  the 
action  of  chloral  upon  the  gray  matter  of  the  cord,  by  pre- 
venting the  transmission  of  painful  sensations  through  this 
tract.  It  is  uncertain  whether  chloral  acts  as  an  hypnotic  by 
its  direct  depressing  influence  upon  the  brain  tissue,  or  by 
inducing  cerebral  anaemia  in  causing  the  bl'ood  to  be  with- 
drawn from  the  cerebrum  into  the  dilated  peripheral  arte- 
rioles. 

Respiration. — The  respiration  is  not  interfered  with  by 
moderate  nledicinal  doses  of  chloral,  but  toxic  quantities 
depress  and  paralyze  the  respiratory  centre.  The  respira- 
tory movements  become  deep,  regular  and  full,  with  large 
therapeutic  doses,  but  with  toxic  doses,  slow,  irregular  and 
shallow.  Death  occurs  more  commonly  from  arrest  of  res- 
piration, yet  primary  heart  failure,  or  both  combined,  may 
lead  to  a  fatal  result. 

Temperature. — The  temperature  falls,  owing  to  dimin- 
ished heat  production  and  increased  loss,  through  heart 
failure  and  vascular  dilatation. 

Elimination. — Chloral  is  eliminated  by  the  urine,  in  part 
unchanged  and  in  part  in  an  altered  condition. 

Summnry.—CYAoYsl  is  a  local  stimulant  and  antiseptic, 
and  relieves  itching.  It  is  a  powerful  depressant  to  the 
cerebrum,  vasomotor  and  respiratory  centres,  inferior  cor- 
nua,  heart  muscle  and  its  ganglia. 

Acute  Poisoning.  —  Large  doses  produce  insensibility, 
coma,  and  complete  loss  of  muscular  power,  so  that  the 
animal  falls.  There  is  general  anaesthesia,  and  the  pupils 
dilate.  The  pulse  is  weak,  at  first  frequent,  later  infrequent 
and  irregular.  The  respiration  may  be  primarily  quickened, 
but  subseqently  becomes  slow,  shallow  and  irregular.  The 
animal  sweats,  the  sphincters  are  relaxed,  and  involuntary 


300  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

defaecation  occurs,  but  recovery  commonly  follows.  With 
doses  greater  than  4  ounces,  horses  die  in  a  generally  anaes- 
thetic and  paralyzed  state.  In  man,  death  has  followed  the 
ingestion  of  10  grains  of  chloral,  and  several  fatalities  have 
occurred  after  doses  of  20  or  25  grains,  although  these  are 
exceptional  cases.  The  fatal  dose  for  dogs  is  said  to  be 
from  2  to  6  drachms. 

Treatment. — Emetics  and  the  stomach  tube,  shouting  at 
and  beating  the  animal,  external  heat.  Five  times  the  ordi- 
nary dose  of  strychnine  and  atropine  subcutaneously. 
Strong,  hot  coffee  and  alcohol  by  the  rectum.  Amyl  nitrite 
inhalations. 

Administration. — Chloral  has  been  given  intravenously, 
subcutaneously,  and  intratracheally,  as  well  as  by  the  mouth 
and  rectum.  The  best  way  to  administer  it  is  in  solution 
per  orem,  or  rectum.  It  may  cause  abscess  if  injected  under 
the  skin,  or  thrombi,  when  thrown  into  a  vein.  If  given  in 
ball,  the  chloral  may  prove  too  irritating  in  the  digestive 
tract.  It  should  be  diluted  at  least  10  times,  and  is  given  by 
the  mouth  with  glycerin  and  water,  or  weak  syrup,  or  with 
boiled  starch  solution  by  the  rectum. 

Uses  External. — Chloral  may  be  employed  as  a  stimu- 
lant, antiseptic,  and  slight  local  anaesthetic,  in  solution  (1  to 
4),  upon  ulcers  and  wounds.  It  may  be  used  with  an  equal 
part  of  camphor  diluted  with  8  parts  of  ointment,  to  relieve 
itching.  A  4  to  8  per  cent,  aqueous  solution  forms  an 
excellent  antiseptic  preservative  for  anatomical  specimens, 
and  chloral  may  be  added  to  urine  for  this  purpose. 

Uses  Internal. — Chloral  is  used  for  three  purposes  in 
veterinary  practice : 

1.  First  and  foremost,  to  relieve  spasm. 

2.  To  assuage  pain. 

3.  To  procure  sleep. 

In  human  medicine  chloral  is  mainly  employed  as  an 
hypnotic,  but  a  purely  soporific  action  is  rarely  required  for 
the  lower  animals.  The  spasmodic  conditions  benefited  by 
chloral  include  colic,  convulsions,  chorea,  epilepsy,  asthma, 


AGETANILID  301 

canine  distemper,  spasmodic  cough,  rigidity  of  the  uterine 
OS  in  the  first  stage  of  labor,  hysteria,  tetanus,  and  strych- 
nine poisoning.  In  spasmodic  colic,  chloral  is  inferior  to 
opium  as  an  anodyne,  but  has  the  advantage  of  not  inducing 
constipation.  It  may  be  employed  in  colic,  by  the  rectum, 
combined  with  morphine  given  under  the  skin,  as  recom- 
mended for  procuring  anaesthesia.  It  is  the  best  remedy  we 
possess  for  the  treatment  of  convulsions  in  dogs,  apart  from 
anaesthetics.  Ether  may  be  administered  during  the  con- 
vulsion, and  chloral  given  simultaneously,  or  between  the 
attacks,  in  gr.v.-xx.,  per  rectum,  and  repeated  if  necessary. 
Chloral  is  only  indicated  in  chorea  when  the  movements  are 
so  severe  that  the  animal  cannot  secure  sleep  or  rest.  In 
distemper  in  dogs,  chloral  is  used  for  the  same  purpose, 
when  there  is  excessive  congh  and  restlessness.  •  Chloral  is 
given  per  rectum  in  tetanus,  so  as  to  keep  the  animal  conti- 
nually narcotized,  and  may  be  employed  in  conjunction  with 
tetanus  antitoxine. 

Spasm  of  the  os  uteri  is  relieved  by  chloral  when  given 
per  rectum  in  frequently  repeated  doses,  until  the  safe 
physiological  limit  is  reached.  Chloral  is  inferior  to  ether 
or  chloroform  as  an  anaesthetic,  because  it  is  not  so  safe,  nor 
is  the  aDsesthesia  so  complete,  but  it  relieves  pain  effectually, 
and  is  more  easily  administered.  It  is  combined,  in  order 
to  produce  anaesthesia,  with  small  doses  of  morphine,  which 
decidedly  enhance  the  anodyne  action  of  chloral. 

To  prepare  a  horse  for  surgical  operation,  3  grains  of 
morphine  sulphate  and  1  grain  of  atropine  sulphate  may  be 
injected  under  the  skin,  and  followed  in  10  minutes  by 
an  ^nema  containing  1  ounce  of  chloral. 

Class  5. — Antipyretics  and  Analgesics. 

AcETANiLiDUM.    Acetanilid.   CgH^N  H  C2H3O.    (U.S.&B.P.) 

Synonym. — Phenylacetamide,  antifebrin. 
An  acetyl  derivative  of  aniline. 


302  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Derivation. — Glacial  acetic  acid  and  aniline  are  distilled 
together,  and  the  residue  is  purified  hj  repeated  crystalliza- 
tion.    H  C,H30,  +  CeH,N  H,  =  C,H,N  H.  C3H3O  +  H,0. 

Properties. — White,  shining  micaceous  crystalline  lami- 
nae, or  a  crystalline  powder,  odorless,  having  a  faintly 
burning  taste,  and  permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble  in  194 
parts  of  water,  and  in  5  parts  of  alcohol ;  also  soluble  in  18 
parts  of  ether,  and  easily  soluble  in  chloroform. 

Dose.—^.,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3ss.-i.  (2.-4.);  D., 
gr.iii.-vii.  (.2-.5). 

Phenacetinum.   Phenacetin.   C.oHi^^N  02(178.63).   (B.P.) 
(Non-official,  U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Para-acetphenetidin,  CgH^O  C2H5N  H  CjHjO 
-f  H,0  (178.63). 

Derivation. — Obtained  by  the  action  of  glacial  acetic 
acid  upon  parapheuatitin,  a  phenol  derivative. 

H  C,H30,  +  CeH,0  C,H,N  H  =  GJl.O  C,H,N  HC,H30 
-f  H,0. 

Properties.  —  Glistening,  colorless,  tasteless,  odorless, 
scaly  crystals.  Practically  insoluble  in  water  ( 1-1700 ), 
soluble  in  30  parts  of  alcohol,  and  in  glycerin,  chloroform 
and  acetic  acid. 

Dos€.—B..  k  C,  3ii.-iii.  (8.-12.);  D.,  gr.v.-x.  (.3-.6). 

Antipyrinum.     Antipyrin.     CgHj  (C  113)2  C3H  NjO. 
(Non-official,  U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Phenazonum,  B.  P.;  phenyl- dimethyl-pyra- 
zolone. 

Derivation. — Phenyl-hydrazine  is  acted  upon  by  aceto- 
acetic  ether,  when  phenyl -monomethyl- pyrazolone,  ethyl 
alcohol  and  water  result. 

H^N  N  H  CeH,  +  C  H3C  O  C  H^  C  O  O  C^H,  =  CeH, 
(C  H3)  C3H2N2O  +  C^H,  O  H  +  H^O.  Then  CeH,  (C  H3) 
C3H2N2O  +  C  H3 1  (methyl  iodide)  =  CeH,  (C  H,)^  C3H  N^O 
+  HI. 


ACTION  OF  ACETANILID,  ANTIPYRIN  AND  PHENACETIN         303 

Properties. — Colorless,  odorless,  scaly  crystals,  of  a  bit- 
terish taste  and  alkaline  reaction.  Soluble  in  about  its  own 
weight  of  water,  alcohol  and  chloroform. 

Incompatihles. — Spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  iron  sulphate, 
chloride  and  iodide ;  salicylates,  tannin,  chloral,  calomel, 
and  a  large  number  of  drugs. 

Dose.—K.  &  C,  3  iii.-iv.  (12.-15.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3i.  (4); 
D.,  gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3). 

ACTION   OF  ACETANILID,   ANTIPYRIN   AND   PHENACETIN. 

External.  —  Acetanilid  and  antipyrin  are  antiseptics. 
Solutions  of  the  latter  contract  vessels  and  exert  a  haemo- 
static action. 

Internal. — These  substances  exert  no  action  upon  the 
digestive  tract,  but  acetanilid  possesses  a  decided  antiseptic 
influence  upon  bacteria  within  the  alimentary  canal. 

Blood. — ^These  agents  have  no  influence  upon  the  blood, 
in  moderate  medicinal  doses,  but  in  large  doses  they  dimin- 
ish the  ozonizing  power  of  the  blood,  reduce  the  haemoglobin 
of  the  red  corpuscles,  change  it  to  methsemoglobin,  and 
alter  the  color  of  the  blood  to  a  brownish-red  hue.  In 
large  toxic  quantities,  administered  continuously,  they  cause 
disintegration  of  the  red  corpuscles  and  elimination  of  the 
blood  coloring  matter  in  the  urine. 

Heart  and  Blood  Vessels. — In  ordinary  therapeutic  doses 
these  drugs  do  not  alter  the  normal  condition  of  the  heart 
or  blood  vessels,  but  in  large  medicinal  doses  they  depress 
the  force  of  the  heart  by  action  (probably)  upon  the  heart 
muscle.  Phenacetin  is  the  least,  and  acetanilid  the  most 
depressant.  Antipyrin  is  said  to  stimulate  the  heart  and 
increase  blood  pressure  in  minute  quantities.  These  three 
antipyretics  decidedly  diminish  blood  tension  in  large  medi- 
cinal doses,  owing  to  depression  of  the  vasomotor  apparatus. 

Nervous  System. — Usual  therapeutic  doses  of  these  sub- 
stances exert  a  sedative  action  upon  the  sensory  nerves  and 
sensory  tract  of  the  spinal  cord.  They  are  therefore  anal- 
gesics, although  not  comparable  in  this  respect  to  opium. 


304  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Poisonous  quantities  of  these  drugs  diminish  muscuLir 
power,  lessen  reflex  action  and  cause  paralysis.  Experi- 
ments apparently  show  that  acetanilid  paralyzes  the  motor 
nerves,  antipyrin  the  motor  nerve  endings,  while  motor 
depression  seems  to  be  of  spinal  origin  in  the  case  of 
phenacetin.  The  brain  is  undoubtedly  influenced  by  these 
agents,  as  evidenced  by  coma  and  convulsions  in  poison- 
ing, but  exact  knowledge  is  wanting  in  relation  to  the  action 
upon  the  brain.  The  functions  of  the  cerebral  cortex  are 
thought  to  be  depressed  by  antipyrin,  and  the  special  senses 
to  be  first  stimulated  and  then  paralyzed  by  this  drug. 

Temperature. — Acetanilid,  antipyrin  and  phenacetin  are 
essentially  antipyretics.  While  they  do  not  invariably  lower 
temperature,  even  in  large  doses  in  normal  animals,  they  do 
so  very  materially  in  animals  suffering  from  fever.  They 
apparently  depress  the  activity  of  the  calorefacient  centres 
(probably  in  the  corpora  striata),  and  therefore  diminish 
heat  production.  Testimony  is  at  variance  in  regard  to 
their  action  upon  heat  loss.  They  frequently  induce  diar- 
phoresis,  but  it  is  generally  accepted  that  heat  dissipation 
is  increased  to  a  greater  extent  than  would  be  accounted  for 
by  sweating,  and  that  it  occurs  even  when  diarphoresis  does 
not  take  place.  Wood  teaches  that  these  agents  act  solely 
by  lessening  heat  production,  and  this  is  no  doubt  their 
main  action. 

Respiration. — The  respiratory  functions  are  unaffected 
by  therapeutic  doses  of  these  medicines.  In  lethal  doses 
respiration  is  quickened,  owing  to  the  greater  work  thrown 
upon  the  respiratory  centre  by  the  altered  condition  of  the 
blood,  and  this  vital  centre  is  ultimately  paralyzed. 

Kidneys. — The  drugs  under  consideration  produce  slight 
diuresis  in  moderate  medicinal  doses.  In  poisoning,  the 
urine  may  become  dark-colored  by  the  hsematin  escaping 
from  the  disintegrated  red  blood  corpuscles.  Antipyrin 
lessens  the  nitrogenous  products  of  tissue  waste  in  the 
urine,  and  also  diminishes  the  amount  of  that  secretion. 
Acetanilid,  on  the  other  hand,  increases  the  excretion  of  urea. 


ACTION  OP  ACETANIUD,  ANTIPYRIN  AND  PHENACETIN         B05 

Elimination. — Antipyriu  is  rapidly  eliminated  unchanged 
in  the  nrine.  Acetanilid  escapes  in  part  unchanged,  and  in 
part  in  the  same  manner  as  aniline,  i.  e.,  para-amido-phenol- 
sulphate,  while  phenacetin  is  chiefly  eliminated  as  such. 

Poisoning.— Toxic  doses  of  these  drugs  cause,  in  the 
lower  animals,  nervous  excitement  and  convulsions,  and 
sometimes  coma,  loss  of  consciousness,  staggering  gait, 
muscular  failure,  sweating,  rapid,  feeble  respiration,  weak 
pulse,  cyanosis,  occasional  vomiting  in  dogs,  fall  of  tempe- 
rature and  general  paralysis. 

Treatment. — External  heat,  alcoholic  stimulants  by  the 
mouth,  rectum,  or  under  the  skin ;  strychnine,  and  atropine 
subcutaneously. 

Administration. — Antipyrin  is  given  in  solution  by  the 
mouth,  rectum,  or  under  the  skin.  Acetanilid  and  phen- 
acetin can  be  administered  in  powder,  tablet,  pill  or  ball ;  or 
in  solution  in  alcoholic  liquor.  Acetanilid  is  to  be  preferred 
for  horses  on  account  of  its  much  greater  cheapness.  The 
average  dose  of  acetanilid  is  one  drachm  for  a  horse,  and 
three  to  five  grains  for  a  dog ;  and  the  dose  of  phenacetin  is 
twice,  and  of  antipyrin  three  times  greater  than  that  of 
acetanilid. 

Uses  External. — Acetanilid  is  employed  as  an  antiseptic 
dusting  powder  undiluted.  A  ten  per  cent,  solution  of  anti- 
pyrin may  be  applied  as  a  haemostatic  upon  bleeding  surfaces. 

Uses  Internal. — There  are  three  indications  for  the  use 
of  these  agents  :  1.  To  lower  temperature  in  fever.  2.  To 
relieve  pain.     3.  To  lessen  motor  excitement  and  spasm. 

They  are  not  so  valuable  in  veterinary  practice  as  in 
human  medicine,  since  the  lower  animals  rarely  suffer  from 
neuralgic  pain,  which  is  the  special  variety  of  suffering 
alleviated  by  these  drugs. 

Phenacetin  is  the  most  serviceable  for  dogs,  as  it  is  less 

toxic,  more  sedative,  and  more  permanent  in  its  antipyretic 

action  than  antipyrin  or  acetanilid.     Dogs  suffering  from 

.  distemper  are  greatly  relieved  by  small  and  repeated  doses 

of  phenacetin,  which  lessen  fever,  cough  and  restlessness. 


306  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

In  acute  diseases,  as  pueumonia,  these  antipyretics  may  be 
occasionally  employed  to  advantage  when  the  temperature 
rises  above  104^  Far.,  and  remains  there  any  length  of  time. 
They  are  generally  inadvisable  in  asthenic,  febrile  diseases, 
since  they  are  too  depressant  in  their  action  upon  the  heart 
and  have  no  effect  in  removing  the  cause  of  the  disease. 
The  hyperpyrexia  of  insolation  may  be  treated  with  these 
agents,  in  combination  with  cold,  externally  and  per  rectum. 
For  the  relief  of  pain  their  scope  is  limited  in  veterinary 
practice  to  that  of  a  rheumatic  character.  Motor  distur- 
bances, including  convulsions,  chorea  and  spasm,  may  be 
abated  by  the  antipyretics,  but  they  are  usually  inferior  to 
chloral,  opium,  or  other  antispasmodics. 

Phenacetin,  combined  with  codeine  or  heroin,  in  powder 
or  tablet,  is  a  useful  remedy  for  cough  in  dogs. 

Class  6.— Antiseptics. 

AciDUM  Carboucum  Crudum.     Crude  Carbolic  Acid. 

Synonym, — Acide  phenique  cru,  Fr.;  rohe  carbolsaure,  G. 

Derivation. — A  liquid  consisting  of  various  constituents 
of  coal  tar,  chiefly  cresol  and  phenol,  obtained  by  fractional 
distillation  at  a  temperature  between  302°  F.  and  392°  F., 
and  twice  rectified  at  a  temperature  between  338°  F.  and 
374°  F. 

Properties. — A  nearly  colorless,  or  reddish-brown  liquid 
of  a  strongly  empyreumatic  and  creasote-like  odor,  having 
a  benumbing,  blanching  and  caustic  effect  upon  the  skin  or 
mucous  membrane,  and  gradually  turning  darker  on  ex- 
posure to  the  air  and  light.  Soluble  in  15  parts  of  water. 
The  aqueous  solution  has  a  slight  acid  reaction. 

AciDUM  Carboucum.    Carbolic  Acid.     CgHgO  H. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Phenic  acid,  phenol,  phenyl  alcohol,  pheny- 
licum  crystallisatum,  E.;  acide  phenique,  acide  carbolique, 


CARBOLIC  ACID 


307* 


hydrate  de  phenyle,  Fr.;  carbolsaure,  pheoylsaure,  phenyl 
alkohol,  G. 

Derivation.  —  Obtained  from  crude  carbolic  acid  by 
agitation  with  caustic  soda,  heating  to  338°  F.,  and  adding 
hydrochloric  acid.  Then  by  agitation  with  sodium  chloride, 
digestion  with  calcium  chloride,  and  distillation  at  a  tempe- 
rature between  336°  F.  and  374°  F.,  and  finally  by  crystalli- 
zation. 

Properties. — Colorless,  interlaced,  or  separate,  needle- 
shaped  crystals,  or  a  white  crystalline  mass,  sometimes 
acquiring  a  reddish  tint ;  having  a  characteristic,  somewhat 
aromatic  odor,  and  when  copiously  diluted  with  water,  a 
sweetish  taste  with  a  slightly  burning  after-taste.  Delique- 
scent on  exposure  to  damp  air.  Soluble  in  about  15  parts 
of  water,  and  very  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform, 
glycerin,  fixed  and  volatile  oils.     Faintly  acid  reaction. 

Phenol  crystals  melt  when  heated,  but  solidify  again  on 
cooling.  A  95  per  cent,  solution  of  carbolic  acid  crystals, 
in  alcohol,  remains  fluid  at  the  ordinary  temperature.  The 
crystals  are  also  liquified  by  the  addition  of  about  8  per 
cent,  of  water. 

Dose. — H.  &  C,  gr.xv.-xxx.  (1.-2.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.v.-x. 
(.3-.6);  D.,  gr.ss.-i.  (.03-.06). 

PREPARATIONS. 

1. — Unguentum  Acidi  Carholici.     Ointment  of  Carbolic  Acid. 
(U.  S.  &B.  P.) 

Carbolic  acid,  5;  ointment,  95.     (U.  S.  P.) 

2. — Glyceritum  Acidi  Carholici.     Glycerite  of  Carbolic  Acid. 

(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Carbolic  acid,  20;  glycerin,  80.     (U.  S.  P.) 

3. — Acidum  Carholicum  Lique factum.    Liquified  Carbolic  Acid. 

(B.  P.) 
Carbolic  acid  liquified  by  addition  of  10  per  cent,  of  water. 
Dose. — Same  as  acidum  carbolicum. 

Action  External.  —  Carbolic  acid  causes  burning  pain 
when  applied  to  the  skin  or  mucous  membranes,  and  this 


308  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

action  is  followed  by  local  anaesthesia  and  the  production  of 
a  dry  white  spot.  If  used  in  sufficient  quantity,  it  leads  to 
sloughing,  but  the  escharotic  effect  is  superficial,  since  the 
acid  coagulates  albumin,  which  forms  a  protective  coating 
to  the  underlying  parts.  Carbolic  acid  is  an  antiseptic  and 
disinfectant,  and,  in  proper  solution,  acts  as  a  sedative  upon 
the  peripheral  sensory  nerves,  and  is  one  of  the  most 
efficient  agents  in  relieving  itching.  It.  checks  the  growth 
of  both  organized  (bacteria)  and  unorganized  (digestive) 
ferments.  Strong  solutions  (1-2  per  cent.)  kill  most  bacteria, 
but  a  considerable  time  is  required  to  destroy  the  organisms 
of  certain  diseases  and  those  relating  to  putrefaction.  Some 
hours  are  required  to  kill  anthrax  spores,  by  even  a  5  per 
cent,  solution.  Two.  per  cent,  solutions  destroy  the  digestive 
ferments.  Carbolic  acid  is  inferior  in  power  to  corrosive 
sublimate  and  many  other  agents,  as  a  germicide.  The 
lower  forms  of  vegetable  parasites,  growing  upon  the  skin^ 
perish  by  the  application  of  carbolic  acid. 

Action  Lite^mal.— Alimentary  Canal. — Carbolic  acid  exerts 
a  local,  anaesthetic  action  upon  the  sensory  nerve  endings 
in  the  stomach,  and  may  act  to  a  certain  extent  in  the  diges- 
tive tract  as  an  antiseptic,  hindering  abnormal  fermentation, 
but  is,  in  this  respect,  inferior  to  creolin,  napthol  and  nap- 
thalin.  It  is  probably  converted  into  a  sulpho-carbolate  in 
the  stomach.  In  concentration,  carbolic  acid  is  a  powerful 
gastro-intestinal  irritant. 

Blood. — Carbolic  acid  is  absorbed  into  the  blood  and 
probably  circulates  in  part  as  an  alkaline  carbolate  of 
sodium  and  potassium. 

Heart  and  Blood  Vessels. — Phenol,  in  poisonous  doses, 
paralyzes  the  vasomotor  centre  and  later  depresses  the  heart. 
The  effect  upon  the  vessels  is  the  more  important  and  promi- 
nent, but  neither  action  is  observed  after  mediciual  doses. 

Bespiration. — Therapeutic  doses  do  not  influence  the 
respiratory  fuDctions,  but  toxic  quantities  make  the  respira- 
tory movements  rapid  and  shallow  at  first,  owing  to  stimula- 
tion of  the  respiratory  centre  and   peripheral  vagi,  while 


CARBOLIC   ACID  309 

death  occurs  after  lethal  amounts  from  paralysis  of  the 
respiratory  centre. 

Nervous  System. — T'he  brain  is  depressed  by  toxic  doses 
of  carbolic  acid,  and  stapor  and  coma  occur.  The  convul- 
sions appearing  in  carbolic  acid  poisoning  are  due  to  pri- 
mary stimulation  of  the  spinal  motor  area,  which  is  finally 
depressed  and  paralyzed.  When  locally  applied,  carbolic 
acid  depresses  and  paralyzes  the  peripheral  sensory  nerves. 

Temperature. — Carbolic  acid,  in  medicinal  doses,  slightly 
lowers  temperature  both  in  health  and  fever,  but  is  not  suffi- 
ciently antipyretic  to  be  suitable  for  such  a  purpose  in  prac- 
tice.   It  depresses  heat  production  and  increases  heat  loss. 

Elimination. — Carbolic  acid  is  eliminated  by  all  ordinary 
channels,  but  mainly  by  the  kidneys.  The  urine  becomes 
dark  colored — a  very  characteristic  sign — even  after  large 
medicinal  doses.  The  sole  cause  of  this  urinary  coloration 
has  not  yet  been  fully  determined.  Phenol  normally  occurs 
in  small  quantities  in  the  urine  of  man  and  animals.  Three 
grains  have  been  recovered  from  the  urine  passed  in  24 
hours  by  a  horse,  and  is  thought  to  be  a  product  of  intes- 
tinal fermentation.  In  large  toxic  doses  some  carbolic  acid 
is  eliminated  in  the  urine  unchanged.  In  smaller  quantities, 
part  of  the  acid  is  decomposed,  and  part  eliminated  as  sul- 
phocarbolates  of  potassium  and  sodium,  and  a  substance 
called  glycuronic  acid,  while  a  portion  is  oxidized  in  the 
system  into  two  bodies,  hydroquinone  and  pyrocatechin. 
The  latter  accounts,  in  part,  for  the  dark  coloration  of  the 
urine,  for  pyrocatechin  can  only  exist  in  an  alkaline  urine. 
The  normal  sulphates  are  absent  in  the  urine  following 
carbolic  acid  poisoning. 

Toxicology. — Carbolic  acid  ranks  as  one  of  the  most 
powerful  poisons — together  with  prussic  acid  and  nitro- 
benzole — in  existence.  Several  cases  of  death  in  man  have 
occurred  after  the  ingestion  of  one-half  an  ounce  of  carbolic 
acid  ;  and  the  smallest  fatal  human  dose  on  record  appears 
to  be  about  one  drachm.  One  or  two  drachms  are  fatal  to 
dogs,  and  a  dose  as  small  as  15  grains  is  said  to  have  caused 


310  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

the  death  of  a  clog,  while  the  lethal  amount  for  the  horse  is 
about  one  ounce.  Many  cases  of  accidental  poisoning  have 
occurred  from  absorption  of  carbolic  acid  when  applied 
externally  for  surgical  purposes  in  dressings  or  solutions 
upon  raw  surfaces.  The  symptoms  are  the  same  as  when 
absorption  occurs  from  the  digestive  tract.  Dogs  and  cats 
are  particularly  susceptible  to  the  action  of  phenol.  The 
milder  symptoms  of  poisoning  include  dulness,  loss  of 
appetite,  muscular  weakness  and  trembling,  and  dark-colored 
urine  having  the  odor  of  carbolic  acid.  After  lethal  doses 
death  may  be  instantaneous  through  respiratory  arrest,  the 
heart  continuing  to  beat  for  a  time.  The  more  ordinary 
symptoms  in  severe  poisoning  in  all  animals  are:  trembling, 
rarely  vomiting  and  purging,  restlessness,  salivation,  loss  of 
muscular  power  (animal  reels  and  falls),  diminution  of 
sensibility,  anaesthesia,  dyspnoea;  the  breathing  is  rapid, 
shallow  and  stertorous ;  the  pulse  is  weak,  irregular,  and 
usually  frequent;  the  temperature  is'lowered,  and  there  are 
the  usual  symptoms  of  collapse,  with  insensibility,  coma, 
loss  of  reflex  action,  general  paralysis,  occasional  convul- 
sions and  death.  Sometimes  haematuria,  albuminuria  and 
hsemoglobinuria  have  been  observed.  The  condition  resem- 
bles apoplexy,  but  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  mouth  is 
stained  white  in  patches  after  ingestion  of  pure  acid,  dark 
with  crude  acid,  and  the  odor  of  the  poison  lingering  about 
the  animal,  together  with  the  dark,  green-colored  urine,  are 
characteristic  of  phenol  poisoning.  The  urine  may  be  clear 
when  first  voided,  but  becomes  dark  on  standing. 

The  absence  of  carbolic  acid  in  the  urine  affords  certain 
evidence  that  the  case  is  not  one  of  poisoning  by  this  drug. 
Post  mortem  examination  reveals  hard,  whitish  or  brownish 
or  black  patches  and  sloughs  upon  the  mucous  membrane 
of  the  mouth,  gullet,  stomach,  and  even  the  small  intestines. 
The  blood  is  dark  from  asphyxia,  and  imperfectly  coagu- 
lated. There  is  occasionally  fatty  degeneration  of  the  liver 
and  kidneys.  The  odor  of  the  acid  remains  not  longer  than 
twenty-four  hours. 


CARBOLIC   ACID  311 

Treatment. — Emetics  are  usually  valueless  on  account  of 
the  ansesthetic  condition  of  the  mucous  membrane  of  the 
stomach.  We  use,  therefore,  the  stomach  pump  or  tube, 
and,  as  antidotes,  Epsom  or  Glauber's  salts,  forming  in- 
soluble and  harmless  sulphocarbolates  in  the  digestive 
tract  and  blood ;  and  these  are  indicated  in  every  stage  of 
the  poisoning.  For  collapse,  heart  and  respiratory  failure, 
digitalis,  strychnine,  atropine,  ether,  brandy*  subcutane- 
ously,  are  to  be  employed,  together  with  heat  externally. 
Mucilaginous  drinks  are  also  useful. 

Administration.— G'Arho\\G  acid  is  commonly  given  in- 
ternally, diluted  several  hundred  times  with  water. 

Uses  External. — A  solution  of  carbolic  acid  (1-20)  is 
frequently  used  in  surgery  to  disinfect  the  unbroken  skin, 
while  a  weaker  solution  (1-40)  is  more  suitable  as  an 
antiseptic  upon  raw  surfaces  and  mucous  membranes.  Cor- 
rosive sublimate  is  a  cheaper  and  more  powerful  disinfectant 
and  antiseptic,  and  is  therefore  more  often  employed  to 
render  the  operative  field  aseptic  and  to  sterilize  the  hands 
of  the  operator.  Pare  carbolic  acid  is  occasionally  used  as 
a  caustic  to  destroy  small  growths,  as  warts,  and  the  lining 
membrane  of  fistulae  of  ihe  poll,  withers,  or  lateral  car- 
tilages; to  swab  out  a  septic  uterus,  and  as  a  local 
anaesthetic  upon  the  skin.  A  drop  of  pure  acid,  or  a  line 
drawn  with  a  brush  along  a  proposed  path  of  incision,  may 
render  a  hypodermic  puncture  or  superficial  incision  pain- 
less. Injection  of  ten  to  thirty  drops  of  a  two  per  cent, 
solution  into  the  substance  of  boils,  glandular  swellings, 
erysipelatous  inflammatory  patches,  poisoned  wounds,  joints 
affected  with  chronic  synovitis,  and  inflamed  bursas,  will 
often  assist  recovery  and  may  abort  the  lesion. 

In  acute  inflammation,  the  injections  are  made  twice 
daily;  in  chronic  conditions,  once  every  other  day;  and  if 
there  is  a  large  extent  of  surface  involved,  several  injections 
are  done  at  one  time. 


*  Strong  alcoholic  liquors  given  by  the  mouth  possess  considerable 
value  as  chemical  and  physiological  antidotes  to  carbolic  acid. 


312  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Bacelli's  treatment  of  tetanus  with  carbolic  acid  lias 
met  with  considerable  success  of  late.  One  drachm  of  the 
pure  acid  in  solution  (5  to  10  per  cent)  should  be  injected  in 
the  region  of  the  neck  and  shoulders  of  the  horse  every  two 
hours  during  the  first  32  hours,  and  less  frequently  after- 
ward. As  much  as  36  drachms  may  be  given  to  the  horse 
in  24  hours,  for  there  appears  to  be  a  special  tolerance 
for  carbolic  acid  acquired  in  tetanus. 

Instruments  are  frequently  placed  in  carbolic  acid 
solution  (1-40)  during  surgical  operations,  although  it  is 
sufficient  to  boil  them  in  water  for  ten  minutes  and  keep 
them  in  the  boiled  water,  or  place  them  in  a  pure  atmos- 
phere upon  boiled  towels.  Carbolized  gauze  is  prepared 
from  unbleached  cotton  gauze  medicated  with  half  its 
weight  of  a  mixture  consisting  of  carbolic  acid,  1 ;  resin,  3 ; 
and  paraffin,  4  parts.  Plain  gauze,  sterilized  by  baking  at  a 
temperature  of  140°  C.  for*  two  hours,  is  preferable,  and 
avoids  the  danger  of  absorption  and  poisoning.  The  gly- 
cerite  of  carbolic  acid  is  employed  as  a  local  application  in 
stomatitis,  upon  the  ulcerations  of  actinomycosis  with 
iodine,  and  also  upon  the  skin  to  destroy  ringworm.  It  is 
inferior,  however,  to  tincture  of  iodine  for  the  latter  pur- 
pose. Two  per  cent,  solutions  are  recommended  to  kill 
lice  and  the  acari  of  scab  and  mange.  Carbolic  acid  is  the 
most  serviceable  remedy  we  possess  to  relieve  itching. 
Two  per  cent,  .solutions  may  be  employed  upon  the  un- 
broken skin,  but  the  strength  should  not  be  greater  than 
half  this  amount  upon  excoriated  surfaces.  In  sub-acute 
moist  eczema  of  dogs,  carbolic  acid  with  zinc  ointment 
(gr.5-  5  i.),  or  the  following  prescription,  will  be  found  of 
value  in  relieving  itching  and  promoting  recovery : 

Calaminae 1  ss. 

Zinci  oxidi 3  ii^ 

Acid.  Carbol gr.xx. 

Liq.  Calcis  ad ^  iv. 

M. 

Sig.    External  use.     (Shake.) 


CABBOLIC   ACID  313 

Care  should  always  be  taken  not  to  apply  carbolic 
preparations  over  any  considerable  extent  of  raw  surface, 
and  to  muzzle  dogs  in  the  event  of  an  opportunity  being 
afforded  them  to  lick  off  any  undue  amount  of  the  acid. 
A  solution  (1-50)  in  boiling  water  forms  an  efficient  anti- 
septic and  sedative  inhalation  for  horses  suffering  from 
catarrh  of  the  upper  air  passages.  One  of  the  most 
excellent  remedies  for  burns  consists  of  a  two  per  cent, 
solution  of  carbolic  acid  in  carron  oil.  It  relieves  pain  and 
lessens  suppuration,  although  carbolic  acid  in  oil  possesses 
little  antiseptic  property.  Good  results  have  been  reported 
with  intratracheal  injections  in  verminous  bronchitis  of 
foals  and  calves,  consisting  of  the  following : 

Acidi  carbolici i  ttixx, 

Ol.  terebinthinae 3  ii. 

Chloroformi 3  ss. 

M. 

Sig.     Give  at  one  injection  intratracheally. 

Crude  carbolic  acid  may  be  used  to  disinfect  infected 
buildings  and  their  contents,  and,  in  two  per  cent,  solution 
with  whitewash,  can  be  applied  to  walls  after  cleaning. 
Boiling  water  and  corrosive  sublimate  are  cheaper  and  more 
effective  disinfectants  than  carbolic  acid. 

tfses  Internal. — Carbolic  acid  is  of  no  worth  in  the  treat- 
ment of  general  septic  diseases,  as  a  sufficient  quantity 
to  kill  bacteria  cannot  be  absorbed  into  the  blood  without 
being  prejudicial  to  the  patient.  Locally,  carbolic  acid  may 
exert  an  antiseptic  and  anaesthetic  action  in  the  stomach. 
Carbolic  acid  is  sometimes  of  service  in  relieving  vomiting 
and  gastric  pain  caused  by  flatulence  in  dogs,  and  in 
counteracting  intestinal  fermentation  and  diarrhoea  in  all 
animals.  In  diarrhoea  of  dogs,  grain  doses  are  combined  to 
advantage  with  bismuth  subnitrate  in  powder,  capsules, 
or  pill. 


314  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Creosotum.     Creosote.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Kreosotum,  P.G.;  kr^osote,  Fr.;  kreosot,  G. 

Derivation. — A  mixture  of  phenols,  chiefly  guaiacol  and 
cresol,  obtained  during  the  distillation  of  wood  tar,  prefer- 
ably of  that  derived  from  the  beech,  Fagus  sylvatica  Linne. 
(Nat.  ord.  cupuliferse.) 

PropeHies. — An  almost  colorless,  yellowish  or  pinkish^ 
highly  refractive,  oily  liquid,  having  a  penetrating,  smoky 
odor,  and  a  burning,  caustic  taste.  Usually  becoming 
darker  in  tint  on  exposure  to  the  light.  Spec.  gr.  not  below 
1.070  at  59^  F.  Soluble  in  about  150  parts  of  water,  but 
without  forming  a  perfectly  clear  solution.  Freely  soluble 
in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  acetic  acid,  fixed  and  volatile 
oils. 

i>ose.—H.,  ITlxv. -XXX.  (1.-2.);  C,  3ss.-i.  (2.-4);  Sh.  and 
Sw.,  Htv.-xv.  (.3-1.);  D.,  11lss.-ii.  (.03-.12). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  action  of  creosote  upon  animals 
is  practically  the  same  as  that  of  carbolic  acid,  both  in 
therapeutic  and  toxic  doses.  The  antidotes  (soluble  sul- 
phates) and  treatment  of  poisoning  are  also  similar. 
Externally,  creosote  is  as  effective  a  germicide  as  carbolic 
acid,  but  the  latter  is  usually  preferred,  being  much  cheaper. 
Creosote  may  be  applied  in  the  same  strength  for  its  local 
antiseptic,  parasiticide,  and  local  anaesthetic  action.  Inter^ 
natty f  creosote  is  administered,  as  is  carbolic  acid,  to  check 
vomiting  and  to  act  as  an  intestinal  antiseptic.  Outside  of 
of  the  body,  creosote  is  employed  in  inhalation  in  inflam- 
matory diseases  of  the  upper  portion  of  the  respiratory 
tract,  and  to  kill  parasites  in  the  air  passages.  Intra- 
tracheal injection  may  be  substituted  for  inhalation  in  the 
latter  condition. 

Creolinum.     Creolin.     (Non-official). 

Derivation. — Obtained  from  soft  coal  by  dry  distillation. 
Composition  very  complex.  Is  said  to  contain  cresol  and 
higher  homologues  of  phenol. 


CEEOLIN  315 

Properties, — Dark-brown,  syrupy,  alkaline  liquid,  of  a 
tarry  taste  and  odor.  Nearly  soluble  in  alcohol ;  soluble  in 
chloroform  and  ether.  When  added  to  water,  creolin  forms 
a  white  emulsion  containing  in  suspension  as  much  as  12 
per  cent,  of  the  drug. 

Dose. — H.  and  C,  5  ss.-i.  (15.-30.),  in  single  dose.  For 
continuous  use— H.  and  C,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  D.,  '\^\.-y,  (.06-.3). 

Acti(m  External. — Creolin  is  a  powerful  and  useful  dis- 
infectant, antiseptic,  and  parasiticide.  It  forms  a  slippery 
coating  upon  the  skin.  Strong  solutions  are  not  caustic, 
but  may  cause  a  dermatitis  when  continuously  applied. 
Creolin  generally  represents  carbolic  acid,  but  is  much 
more  efficient  as  a  germicide,  less  irritating,  and  does  not 
endanger  animal  life  from  absorption.  Aqueous  solutions 
(emulsions),  containing  from  ^  to  1  per  cent,  are  employed 
for  antiseptic  purposes. 

Action  Internal. — Creolin  is  eliminated  by  all  channels, 
giving  the  secretions  a  tarry  odor,  and  coloring  the  urine 
brown.  One  or  two  drachms  of  creolin  (a  lethal  dose  of 
carbolic  acid),  when  given  daily  to  dogs  for  weeks  at  a  time, 
produce  no  bad  effects.  It  is  a  good  intestinal  antiseptic, 
and  better  than  carbolic  acid. 

Uses. — Creolin  is  employed  mainly  outside  of  the  body, 
and  is  a  useful  general  antiseptic  for  surgical  purposes  in  1 
per  cent,  solution.  Antiseptic  poultices,  so  valuable  upon 
septic  sloughing  parts,  are  best  made  by  soaking  clean 
gauze  in  a  ^  per  cent,  aqueous  solution  of  creolin,  and 
applying  the  same,  covered  by  a  waterproof  protective. 
Creolin  solutions  are  not  to  be  recommended  for  instru- 
ments during  operations,  as  the  fluid  is  so  turbid  that 
they  cannot  be  seen  by  the  operator.  A  2  per  cent,  solution 
is  useful  for  a  vaginal  or  uterine  injection ;  a  1  per  cent, 
solution  for  irrigation  of  the  bladder  in  cystitis,  or  eye  in 
keratitis  and  conjunctivitis ;  and  a  ^  per  cent,  solution  for 
intestinal  irrigation  in  dysentery.  As  a  parasiticide,  2  per 
cent,  solutions,  or  10  per  cent,  ointments  or  soaps,  may  be 
used  to  kill  lice  and  acari  of  scab  and  mange. 


316  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Sheep  are  dipped  to  advantage  in  2  per  cent,  solutions, 
to  destroy  ticks,  instead  of  the  more  dangerous  arsenical 
liquids.  Creolin  (of  Merck)  may  be  used  internally,  as  an 
intestinal  antiseptic  and  anthelmintic.  One  ounce  given  on 
an  empty  stomach,  in  a  quart  of  water,  is  one  of  the  most 
effective  vermifuges  for  the  horse. 

Lysolum.    LysoL 
(Non-official.) 

Derivation,  —  From  that  part  of  tar  oil  which  boils 
between  190°  and  '200°  C,  by  dissolving  in  fat  and  saponi- 
fying in  alcohol. 

Properties. — A  clear,  brown,  oily  liquid,  of  a  feeble, 
creasote-like  odor.  Soluble  in  water,  forming  a  clear,  frothy, 
soapy  fluid,  and  in  alcohol,  chloroform,  and  glycerin.  Lysol 
contains  50  per  cent,  of  cresol. 

Lysol  is  used  as  a  substitute  for  creolin,  in  ^  to  2  per 
cent,  aqueous  solution.  It  is  a  powerful  antiseptic,  and  is 
stated  to  be  more  efficient  and  half  as  poisonous  as  creolin, 
and  only  |  as  toxic  as  carbolic  acid.  Lysol  solutions  do 
not  obscure  instruments,  nor  damage  the  hands  of  the 
operator.     The  drug  is  undoubtedly  a  very  useful  one. 

Naphtol.    Naphtol.     C,„H,0  H.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Beta  naphtol. 

A  phenol  occurring  in  wood  tar,  but  usually  prepared 
artificially  from  naphthalin. 

Derivation. — Naphthalin  is  treated  with  strong  sulphuric 
acid.  B- naphthalin  sulphonic  acid  is  formed  (C10H7  H  SO3). 
The  latter  acid  is  dissolved  in  water  with  milk  of  lime,  and 
the  resulting  calcium  salt  is  recovered  by  crystallization. 
The  crystals  are  then  dissolved  in  water  and  treated  with 
sodium  carbonate,  when  sodium  naphthalin-sulphonate  (Cm 
H^SOgNa)  results.  The  latter  is  mixed  with  fused  sodium 
hydroxide,  when  sodium  naphtol  (Cjo  H^  O  Na)  and  sodium 
sulphite  are  obtained.     Hydrochloric  acid  is  added  to  the 


KAPHTALIN  317 

former,  and  naphtol  results,  which  is  further  purified  by 
sublimation  and  recrystallization. 

Properties.  —  Colorless,  or  pale  buff-colored,  shining, 
crystalline  laminae,  or  a  white,  or  j-ellowish- white,  crystalline 
powder ;  having  a  faint  phenol-like  odor,  and  a  sharp  and 
pungent  but  not  persistent  taste.  Permanent  in  the  air. 
Soluble  in  about  1,000  parts  of  water,  and  in  0.75  parts  of 
alcohol ;  also  very  soluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  or  solutions 
of  caustic  alkalies. 

Dose,—R.,  3ii.-iii.  (8.-12.);  D.,  gr.i.-x.  (.06-.6). 

Actions  and  Uses. — Naphtol  is  a  powerful  disinfectant, 
antiseptic  and  parasiticide.  It  is  a  useful  application  exter- 
nally in  10  per  cent,  ointment,  for  mange  and  ringworm. 

Internally  it  is  employed  to  kill  round  and  tape  worms, 
and  as  an  antiseptic  in  intestinal  fermentation.  It  should 
be  given  in  keratin  coated  pill  (to  avoid  irritating  the 
stomach),  or  capsules,  to  dogs,  and  in  ball  to  horses. 

Naphtalinum.     Naphtalin.      Cjo  Hg.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Naphtalene. 

Derivation.— h.  hydrocarbon  obtained  from  coal  tar  by 
distillation  between  356°  F.  and  482°  F.  The  impure  naph- 
talin resulting  is  treated  with  sulphuric  acid  and  sodium 
hydroxide,  and  is  further  purified  by  distillation  with  steam, 
and  then  by  mixture  with  strong  sulphuric  acid,  and  finally 
by  redistillation. 

Proj^erties.  —  Colorless,  shining,  transparent  laminae, 
having  a  strong  characteristic  odor  resembling  that  of  coal 
tar,  and  a  burning  aromatic  taste ;  slowly  volatilized  on 
exposure  to  the  air.  Insoluble  in  water;  soluble  in  15  parts 
of  alcohol ;  very  soluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  carbon  disul- 
phide,  and  fixed  and  volatile  oils. 

Z)ose.— H.,  3ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  D.,  gr.i.-xx.  (.06-1.3). 

Actions  and  Uses. —  Naphtalin,  like  other  coal  tar  pro- 
ducts, is  an  antiseptic  and  parasiticide.  It  may  be  used  as 
an  antiseptic  dressing  powder  upon  wounds,  or  in  10  per 


318  INORGANIC   AGENTS 

cent,  ointment  for  parasitic  skin  diseases.  Naplitalin  is 
almost  insoluble  in  the  digestive  tract,  and  acts  as  an  anti- 
septic, therefore,  throughout  this  canal.  It  is  of  service  in 
intestinal  fermentation,  diarrhoea,  dysentery,  and,  as  a  ver- 
micide, in  combination  with  castor  oil.  Naplitalin  is 
administered  to  dogs  in  starch  wafers  or  gelatine  capsules ; 
and  to  horses  in  ball  or  electuary. 

Eesorcinum.     Eesorcin.     CeH,(0  H)^.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Resorcinol.     Metadioxybenzol. 

Derivation. — A  diatomic  phenol  formed  by  the  action  of 
fuming  sulphuric  acid  upon  benzine,  whereby  benzine  meta- 
disulphonic  acid  [CgH^  (H  S  03)2]  results.  The  latter  is 
neutralized  by  milk  of  lime ;  calcium  sulphate  is  expressed, 
and  sodium  carbonate  is  added.  The  process  is  continued 
by  filtration,  and  the  filtrate  evaporated  to  dryness.  The 
residue  is  heated  with  sodium  hydrate,  with  the  formation 
of  sodium  resorcin  [CgH^  (O  Na)^. 

Sulphurous  acid  is  driven  off  from  sodium  resorcin  by 
boiling,  and  the  result  is  extracted  with  ether;  impure 
resorcin  is  recovered  by  distillation,  and  is  purified  by  sub- 
limation or  by  re  crystallization  from  water. 

Properties. — Colorless,  or  faintly  reddish,  needle-shaped 
crystals,  or  rhombic  plates ;  having  a  faint,  peculiar  odor, 
and  a  disagreeable,  sweetish,  and  afterward  pungent  taste. 
Resorcin  acquires  a  reddish  or  brownish  tint  on  exposure 
to  light  and  air.  Soluble  in  0.6  part  of  water,  and  in  0.5 
part  of  alcohol ;  readily  soluble  in  ether  or  glycerin,  and 
very  slightly  soluble  in  chloroform. 

Dose.— H.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  Foals  and  Calves,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.); 
D.,  gr.ii.-v.  (.12-.3). 

Action  and  Uses. — Resorcin  was  originally  employed  as 
an  antipyretic,  but  is  not  now  used  for  this  action,  being  too 
depressing  to  the  heart.  It  is  an  efficient  antiseptic,  exter- 
nally and  internally;  possesses  a  slight  local  anaesthetic 
etfect,  and  is  not  nearly  so  irritating  topically  as  phenol. 


FORMALDEHYDE  319 

Externally  it  is  of  value  in  scaly  skin  diseases,  as  psoriasis, 
in  solution  (1-4),  in  glycerin.  Internally,  resorcin  is  of  worth 
in  fermentation  and  indigestion,  given  in  a  large  amount  of 
water  an  hour  or  two  after  eating 

Formaldehyde.     C  H  O  H. 
(Non -official.) 

Synonym. — Formic  aldehyde. 

Derivation. — Obtained  by  partial  combustion  of  wood 
alcohol,  without  ignition,  by  evaporation  of  the  spirit  in 
contact  with  a  hot,  platinized,  asbestos  plate.  2  C  Hg  O  H 
+  0,  =  2CHOHH2  H,0. 

Properties. — Formaldehyde  is  a  pungent  gas,  having  a 
spec.  gr.  of  1.6;  soluble  in  water,  forming  a* clear,  colorless, 
stable  solution  when  kept  in  glass-stoppered  bottles,  but 
volatilizing  on  exposure  to  the  air.  Formalin  is  the  com- 
mercial name  for  an  aqueous  solution  containing  40  per 
cent,  of  formaldehyde  gas. 

Action  arid  Uses.  —  Formaldehyde  and  formalin  are 
powerful  microbicides.  A  1  per  cent,  solution  of  formalin 
will  kill  Staphylococcus  pyogenes  aureus  in  about  an  hour; 
B.  typhosus  in  40  to  50  minutes ;  B.  coli  communis  i'n  30 
to  40  minutes ;  B.  anthracis  and  S.  cholerse  in  less  than  15 
minutes.  Clothes  soaked  in  cultures  of  B.  typhosus,  S.  cho- 
lerse  and  Staphylococcus  pyogenes  aureus,  and  then  for  24 
hours  in  a  1  per  cent,  solution  of  formalin,  were  found  to  be 
completely  sterile  (Slater).  Trillat  and  Robinson  have 
apparently  shown  that  formaldehyde  gas  has  wonderful 
disinfectant  and  penetrating  properties,  destroying  all 
pathogenic  bacteria  in  ordinary  rooms  containing  the  micro- 
organisms buried  under  mattresses,  between  blankets,  in 
in  clothing  and  other  articles,  in  the  air,  dust,  and  morbid 
secretions.  Harrington  has  proved,  however,  that  the  pene- 
trating power  of  formaldehyde  is  nil  in  the  case  of  moist 
substances,  and  that  sterilization  is  not  always  complete 
when  micro-organisms  are  imbedded  in,  or  covered  by,  dry, 


320  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

pervious  material.  StilJ,  formaldehyde  is  the  best  practical 
disinfectant  now  known  for  the  sterilization  of  infected  pre- 
mises. It  is  as  yet  comparatively  expensive.  The  gas  is 
most  effective  between  60^  and  70°  F.,  but  will  act  at  other 
temperatures.  It  is  nof  so  operative  in  damp  air,  and  the 
premises  should  be  closed  tight  from  the  outer  air,  in  order 
that  the  disinfection  may  be  thorough.  One-half  a  liter 
(about  one  pint)  of  pure  wood  alcohol  will  yield  a  2J  per 
cent,  formaldehyde  atmosphere  in  1,000  cubic  feet  of  air 
space,  and  this  is  the  proper  proportion  of  alcohol  necessary 
for  disinfection.  The  premises  containing  the  gas  should 
be  sealed  from  4  to  24  hours.  Formaldehyde  vapor  is 
extremely  pungent  and  irritating  to  the  mucous  membranes, 
causing  running  of  the  nose  and  eyes  in  those  exposed  to 
its  influence ;  but  some  experimenters  have  subjected  ani- 
mals to  formaldehyde  vapor  (of  disinfectant  strength)  for 
hours  without  causing  their  death.  In  Harrington's  experi- 
ments two  rabbits  were  killed  by  formaldehyde  in  the  disin- 
fection of  a  room,  and  exhibited  the  following  post  mortem 
appearances :  Congestion  and  hemorrhage  of  the  buccal 
mucous  membrane ;  intense  bronchitis  with  hyperaemia,  and 
consolidation  of  the  lung  with  a  purulent  and  slightly  fibri- 
nous exudate.  There  was  also  congestion  of  the  abdominal 
organs,  including  the  liver,  kidneys  and  spleen.  As  death 
may  occur,  it  is  certainly  unwise  to  attempt  the  disinfection 
of  premises  with  formaldehyde,  when  inhabited  by  men  or 
animals.  The  smaller  insect  pests  and  animal  parasites  are 
sometimes  killed  by  formaldehyde  disinfection,  but  not  in- 
variably so. 

Formic  aldehyde  vapor  is  not  injurious  to  plants,  cloth- 
ing, metals,  or  other  like  articles,  as  are  sulphurous  anhy- 
dride or  chlorine  gas,  and  it  bids  fair  to  supersede  all  other 
agents  for  the  gaseous  disinfection  of  premises  infected  with 
pathogenic  bacteria.  Formalin  may  be  diluted  with  §  of  its 
bulk  of  water  and  evaporated  by  heat  to  generate  formalde- 
hyde gas,  without  any  special  apparatus. 

Harrington  states  that  the  evaporation  of  110   Cc.  of 


FORMALDEHYDE  321 

formalin  is  sufficient  to  kill  all  pathogenic  micro-organisms 
within  2^  hours,  in  1,000  cubic  feet  of  air  space.  Sheets 
saturated  with  formalin  ( J  v.  to  1,000  cubic  feet  air  space) 
will  efficiently  disinfect  premises  when  reasonably  air-tight, 
by  simple  evaporation. 

It  is  necessary  to  employ  a  generator  or  special  ap- 
pliance to  convert  wood  alcohol  into  formic  aldehyde,  but 
these  are  not  expensive. 

Formalin,  in  ^  to  2  per  cent,  solution,  is  perhaps  the 
most  powerful  antiseptic  we  possess  for  surgical  purposes. 
It  is  somewhat  painful  and  irritating  on  raw  surfaces,  but  is 
a  valuable  agent  for  the  disinfection  of  the  skin  or  septic 
parts. 

PREPARATIONS. 

CTro^rqpm  (Hexamethylentetramen).     Cs  H,2  N4. 

Urotropin  occurs  in  colorless,  transparent  crystals,  soluble  in  1.2 
parts  of  water  and  in  14  parts  of  alcohol;  odorless,  of  a  sweet,  afterward 
bitter  taste,  and  slight  alkaline  reaction.  It  is  made  by  combining  solu- 
tions of  ammonia  and  formaldehyde,  and  was  first  introduced  into 
medicine  by  Nicolaier  in  1895.  Urotropin  appears  to  be  decomposed  in 
the  kidneys  with  the  liberation  of  formaldehyde,  and  thus  disinfects 
the  urinary  tract.  It  is,  in  fact,  considered  the  best  urinary  antiseptic  in 
human  medicine  and  has  been  used  with  the  greatest  success  in  the 
treatment  of  all  infectious  diseases  of  the  urinary  passages,  especially 
acute  and  chronic  pyelitis  and  cystitis.  It  renders  normal  a  putrid 
urine  containing  pus  or  mucus,  is  a  solvent  for  uric  acid  and  is  slightly 
diuretic.  These  actions  should  be  of  value  in  similar  diseases  of  animals, 
especially  of  dogs.  The  drug  may  be  given  in  from  3  to  5  grain  doses 
thrice  daily  in  solution,  in  canine  practice. 

Olutol  (Formalin  Gelatin). 

Glutei  is  a  coarse,  white  powder,  without  odor  or  irritating  pro- 
perties, and  is  prepared  by  dissolving  gelatin  in  water  and  drying  the 
solution  in  formalin  vapor.  It  is  a  most  valuable  antiseptic  powder  in 
liberating  formaldehyde  gas  in  contact  with  living  cells.  Glutei  forms 
a  scab  when  dusted  over  fresh  wounds,  preventing  infection,  and  is 
serviceable  in  the  treatment  of  infected  wounds,  abscesses,  boils  (after 
paracentesis),  sinuses  and  other  surgical  conditions.  It  was  first 
brought  into  use  by  Dr.  C.  L.  Schleich,  in  1896. 


322  INORGA.NIC  AGENTS 

Class  7. — Miscellaneous  Carbon  Compounds. 

AciDUM  Hydrocyanicum  Dilutum. 
Diluted  Hydrocyanic  Acid.     HON.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym,  —  Prussic  acid,  acidum  hydrocyanatum,  s. 
borussicum,  E.;*  acide  cyanhydrique,  s.  hydrocyanique,  Fr.; 
cyanwasserstoffsaure,  blausaure,  G. 

Derivation.  —  A  liquid  composed  of  2  per  cent.,  by 
weight,  of  absolute  hydrocyanic  acid,  and  98  per  cent,  of 
water.  Obtained  by  distillation  of  ])otassium  ferrocyanide, 
20 ;  sulphuric  acid,  8 ;  and  water,  65 ;  into  distilled  water. 
The  following  reaction  first  occurs  :  K^  Fe  Cg  Ng  +  2  Hg  S 
O4  =  2  K2  S  0^  +  H^  Fe  Cg  N^ ;  then  on  the  application  of 
heat,  the  hydroferrocyanic  acid  resulting  in  the  first  reaction  ' 
reacts  with  the  remaining  potassium  ferrocyanide  and  sul- 
phuric acid,  as  follows  :  H,  Fe  C,  Ng  +  K,  Fe  C,  N^  +  H^  S 
O,  =  6  H  C  N  +  K,  S  O,  +  K,  Fe  (Fe  C,  X). 

Diluted  hydrocyanic  acid  can  also  be  made  by  mixing 
hydrochloric  acid,  5 ;  with  distilled  water,  55  ;  silver  cyanide, 
6.  Shake  together  in  a  glass- stoppered  bottle.  Ag  C  N  + 
H  CI  =  H  C  N  +  Ag  01.  When  the  precipitate  of  silver 
chloride  falls,  pour  off  the  clear,  supernatant  fluid. 

Properties. — A  clear,  colorless  liijuid,  of  a  characteristic 
taste  and  odor,  resembling  those  of  bitter  almond.  It  is 
very  unstable  and  is  apt  to  be  inert  as  obtained  from  ordi- 
nary drug  stores.  It  should  be  kept  in  inverted  glass-stop- 
pered dark  bottles. 

Incompatibles. — Salts  of  iron,  copper  and  silver ;  sulphides 
and  red  mercuric  oxide. 

I)o8e.—K.  &  0, 1l\xx.^xl.  (1.3-2.6);  Sh.,  y([x.-xY.  (.6-1.); 
Sw.,  11lii.-v.  (.12.3);  D  ,  nii.-iii.  (.06-.2). 

Action  External.  —  Prussic  acid  is  absorbed  to  some 
extent  through  the  unbroken  skin  ;  paralyzes  the  peripheral 
sensory  nerves,  and  acts  as  a  local  anaesthetic.     If  the  finger 

*  Scheele's  prussic  acid  contains  4  to  5  per  cent,  of  the  pure  hydro- 
cyanic acid. 


X 


DILUTED   HYDROCYANIC  ACID  323 

is  held  over  a  bottle  containiDg  the  acid,  it  soon  becomes 
anaesthetized.  Upon  mucous  membranes,  or  raw  surfaces, 
prussic  acid  is  rapidly  absorbed  and  exhibits  its  usual  con- 
stitutional action. 

Action  Internal. — Alimentary  Canal. — Hydrocyanic  acid 
exerts  a  sedative  effect  upon  the  mucous  membrane  of  the 
stomach  and  upper  portion  of  the  digestive  tract.  It  is 
iibrtorbed  into  the  blood,  but  we  are  ignorant  of  its  fate  or 
mode  of  elimination. 

Blood. — In  poisoning,  the  blood  becomes  first  of  a  bright 
arterial  hue,  and  later  assumes  a  dark,  venous  color.  The 
first  condition  is  due  to  the  fact  that  the  blood  does  not 
give  up  its  oxygen  for  some  reason.  Brunton  suggests  that 
it  is  because  the  blood  is  hurried  so  rapidly  through  the 
dilated  peripheral  vessels  that  it  does  not  have  time  to  yield 
up  its  oxygen.  The  dark  color  of  the  blood  is  probably 
owing  to  asphyxia  and  accumulation  of  carbonic  dioxide, 
following  the  paralytic  action  of  prussic  acid  upon  the 
respiratory  centre.  A  substance  called  cyanoliaemoglobin 
is  formed  outside  the  body  by  hydrocyanic  acid  when 
shaken  with  blood.  The  acid  appears  to  deoxydize  the 
normal  oxyhsemoglobin,  and  blood  thus  treated  has  no  ozon- 
izing property.  Cyanohsemoglobin  was  thoupjht  to  account 
for  the  action  of  prussic  acid,  but  it  does  not  exist  within 
the  body  in  the  blood  of  poisoned  animals.  The  red  blood 
corpuscles  are  altered  in  shape  by  the  action  of  prussic  acid 
upon  blood  withdrawn  from  the  vessels.  They  generally 
become  rounder,  then  granular,  and  finally  disintegrate  and 
liquefy.  But  these  changes  do  not  occur  in  the  blood  during 
life.  The  general  action  of  prussic  acid  is  altogether  inde- 
pendent of  any  influence  upon  the  blood,  since  the  same 
toxic  effect  is  produced  upon  the  bloodless,  or  "  salt  frog  " 
(vessels  containing  normal  salt  solution),  as  upon  the  normal 
batrachian. 

Nervous  System  and  Muscles. — Prussic  acid  has  an  essen- 
tially depressing  action  upon  the  nervous  system  as  a  whole. 
The  brain,  cord  and  nerves  become  paralyzed  by  large  doses. 


324  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

The  convulsions  occurring  in  poisoning  are  shown  by  expe- 
riments to  be  due  probably  to  altered  cerebral  circulation, 
although  thoy  have  been  attributed  to  the  direct  influence 
upon  the  brain  substance,  and,  to  asphyxia.  They  are,  how- 
ever, present  during  that  period  of  poisoning  when  the  blood 
is  of  a  bright  arterial  hue.  The  spinal  cord  is  paralyzed  at 
a  period  after  coma  and  convulsions  have  appeared.  The 
peripheral  nerves  and  muscles  are  paralyzed  directly  by 
toxic  doses,  and  not  through  the  mediation  of  the  central 
nervous  apparatus.  This  is  proved  by  shutting  off  the  blood 
supply  containing  the  drug,  from  a  frog's  leg,  and  leaving 
the  nervous  connections  intact,  when  no  effect  of  prussic 
acid  is  observed  upon  the  limb. 

Heart  and  Blood  Vessels.  —  Death  sometimes  occura 
instantaneously  from  large  lethal  doses  of  prussic  acid, 
owing  to  diastolic  arrest  of  the  heart.  This  action  is  due 
probably  to  paralysis  of  the  heart  and  its  contained  ganglia,, 
and  also  to  irritation  of  the  vagus  centre.  Moderate  non- 
toxic doses  stimulate  the  vagus  centre  of  the  medulla,  and 
slow  the  pulse  without  diminishing  the  force  of  the  heart. 
When  the  vagi  are  previously  divided,  this  action  does  not 
occur,  but  after  large  doses  slowing  of  the  heart  is  observed 
whether  the  vagi  are  cut  or  not;  thus  showing  that  the 
heart  muscle,  or  its  ganglia,  are  directly  influenced.  Mode- 
rate doses  of  prussic  acid  first  stimulate,  and.  then  depress 
the  vasomotor  centre.  Arterial  pressure  is  therefore  prima- 
rily raised  considerably,  but  this  is  followed  by  a  fall  to,  or 
below,  the  normal. 

Toxic  doses  stimulate  the  vasomotor  centre  very  briefly,, 
and  this  action  is  succeeded  by  profound  depression  and 
paralysis  of  the  centre,  accompanied  by  a  great  diminution 
of  blood  tension. 

Respiration. — Inhalation  of  the  pure  acid  will  cause 
death  in  a  confined  atmosphere,  and  even  inhalation  of  the 
medicinal  solution  will  induce  the  physiological  symptoms 
of  the  drug.  The  respiratory  centre  is  usually  depressed 
from   the   beginning,  by  prussic  acid,  and   the  respiratory 


DILUTED  HYDKOCYANiC  ACID  325 

movements  are  therefore  lessened  in  frequency  throughout 
the  period  of  its  action.  Earely,  thert3  is  a  primary  transient 
stimulation  of  the  centre,  so  that  the  breathing  is  increased 
in  frequency.  In  the  latter  stage  of  poisoning,  the  breathing 
is  feeble  and  shallow,  and  only  occurs  at  long  intervals. 
If  death  does  not  supervene  immediately  from  diastolic 
arrest  of  the  heart,  it  comes  on  more  slowly  by  asphyxia. 
The  respiratory  movements  become  less  frequent  and 
forcible,  the  animal  giving  an  occasional  gasp,  until  finally 
the  breathing  ceases  altogether,  while  the  heart  continues  to 
beat  for  a  time. 

Summary. — Prussic  acid  in  any  considerable  dose  exerts 
a  general  paralyzant  action  upon  the  system,  including  the 
brain,  spinal  cord,  nerves,  muscles,  and  the  three  great 
medullary  centres  controlling  the  heart,  respiration  and  ves- 
sels. Topically  applied,  hydrocyanic  acid  also  paralyzes 
nerves  and  muscles,  and  acts  therapeutically  as  a  local 
sedative  and  anaesthetic. 

Toxicology. — Prussic  acid  is  one  of  the  most  powerful 
poisons  in  existence.  Death  may  be  instantaneous,  or  life 
may  be  prolonged  for  over  an  hour  after  a  lethal  dose. 
More  commonly  the  animal  survives  for  a  few  minutes,  and 
we  observe  the  following  symptoms  in  dogs :  The  animal 
falls,  froths  at  the  mouth,  the  respiration  is  of  a  gasping 
character  and  occurs  at  infrequent  intervals.  There  is  un- 
consciousness, the  pupils  become  dilated,  there  are  muscular 
tremblings,  and  clonic  or  tonic  spasms.  Defsecation  and 
micturition  occur,  and  erections  often  ensue  in  the  male. 
Respiration  ceases  before  the  cardiac  pulsations. 

Three  stages  may  be  distinguished  in  fatal  poisoning. 
First :  a  very  short  period  elapses  before  the  symptoms 
appear.  There  are  giddiness,  difficult  breathing,  and  slow 
pulse  in  this  stage.  Second :  the  pupils  dilate,  vomiting 
may  occur,  and  the  animal  utters  loud  cries.  Spasmodic 
defaecation,  micturition  and  erections  may  be  present,  with 
convulsions  and  unconsciousness.  Third:  the  last  stage  is 
characterized  by   collapse,  spasms,  general   paralysis   and 


326  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

death.  The  subacute  form  of  poisoning  may  ensue  and 
prove  fatal,  or,  owing  to  the  volatile  character  of  the  drug, 
complete  recovery  may  take  place  within  one-half  or  three- 
quarters  of  an  hour.  Occasionally  dogs  continue  to  be 
paralyzed  for  several  days  and  get  well.  The  minimum 
fatal  dose  recorded  in  man  is  ^^  of  a  grain  of  pure  acid,  or 
about  50  drops  of  the  medicinal  solution.  Four  to  five 
drachms  of  the  diluted  acid  frequently,  but  not  invariably, 
cause  subacute  poisoning  and  death,  in  horses,  within  an 
hour.  One  to  two  drachms  of  the  pharmacopoeial  prepara- 
tion usually  kills  dogs  within  ten  minutes. 

Prussic  acid  is  commonly  used  to  destroy  the  domestic 
animals.  Two  to  four  drachms  of  the  medicinal  acid  are  to 
be  given  to  dogs  and  cats  of  the  ordinary  size,  and  certain, 
painless,  and  rapid  death  will  occur  if  a  fresh  preparation 
of  the  drug  can  be  obtained.  The  unopened,  half-ounce 
vial,  kept  by  druggists,  is  recommended.  Big  dogs,  horses, 
and  the  other  larger  animals  are  not  killed  rapidly,  nor 
sometimes  at  all,  by  great  quantities  of  the  diluted  acid. 
Hence,  shooting  is  a  more  humane  and  preferable  mode  of 
death  for  them.  In  the  experience  of  the  writer,  one  to  two 
drachms  of  prussic  acid  saturated  with  potassium  cyanide, 
failed  to  kill  a  horse,  when  injected  directly  into  the  jugular 
vein.  The  odor  of  the  acid  lingers  about  the  animal  for  a 
few  hours  after  death  ;  the  eyes  Jire  fixed  and  staring ;  the 
pupils  dilated;  the  teeth  are  clinched  tight  and  covered 
with  froth,  while  the  blood  is  of  a  very  dark  color.  The 
treatment  embraces  emptying  the  stomach  by  large  doses 
of  promptly  acting  emetics,  or  by  the  stomach  tube,  or 
pump ;  atropine,  ether,  and  brandy  subcutaneously,  and 
inhalations  of  ammonia,  together  with  artificial  respiration, 
and  hot  and  cold  douches  upon  the  chest. 

Uses. — Prussic  acid  is  indicated  for  three  therapeutic 
purposes : 

1.  To  relieve  gastric  pain  and  vomiting,  by  its  paralyz- 
ing action  upon  the  peripheral  sensory  nerves  of  the 
stomach. 


POTASSIUM  CYANIDE  327 

2.  To  stop  coughing. 

3.  To  allay  itchiug  by  means  of  its  local,  sedative  action 
upon  the  cutaneous  sensory  nerve-endings. 

It  is  mainly  useful  in  veterinary  practice  as  a  cough 
remedy,  when  the  symptom  is  of  reflex  origin,  or  is  caused 
by  chronic  bronchitis ;  and  the  acid  is  often  conjoined  with 
chloroform,  or  opium,  in  some  form.  Prussic  acid  is  a  dan- 
gerous remedy  to  apply  to  the  skin,  as  absorption  may 
occur,  or  the  acid  may  be  lapped  off  by  the  patient. 
Solutions  containing,  of  the  diluted  acid,  3  ss.-i.  to  ^  i- 
of  water,  are,  however,  sometimes  employed  to  relieve 
pruritus. 


PoTASsn  Cyanidum.     Potassium  Cyanide.     K  C  N. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym.^Cjanure  de  potassium,  Fr.;  cyankalium,  G. 

Derivation. — Made  by  heating  together  potassium  ferro- 
cyanide  and  carbonate. 

Properties. — White,  opaque,  amorphous  pieces  ;  or  a 
white,  granular  powder,  odorless  when  perfectly  dry,  but 
in  moist  air  exhaling  the  odor  of  hydrocyanic  acid.  Taste 
sharp  and  alkaline,  and  in  moist  air  the  salt  deliquesces. 
Reaction  very  strongly  alkaline.  Solutions  stain  and  destroy 
clothing.  Soluble  in  about  2  parts  of  water  ;  sparingly 
soluble  in  alcohol. 

Dose.—R.,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.12);  D.,  gr.-jV  (.006). 

Action  and  Uses. — Potassium  cyanide  is  transformed,  in 
the  stomach  and  blood,  into  prussic  acid,  and  resembles  the 
latter  in  its  action,  but  is  much  slower.  Death  has  been 
caused  in  man  by  5  grains  of  the  salt. 


Argentum  Cyanidum.     Silver  Cyanide.     Ag  C  N. 

A  white,  insoluble,  tasteless,  odorless  powder,  used  for 
making  prussic  acid. 


328  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

Prunus  Yirginiana.     Wild  Cherry.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Ecorce  de  cerisier  de  Yirginie,  Fr.;  wild- 
kirschenrinde,  G. 

The  bark  of  the  wild  cherry,  indigenous  in  the  United 
States,  contains  a  ferment  (emulsin)  which,  in  the  presence 
of  water,  acts  on  a  glucoside  (amygdalin,  C20  Ho^  N  On)  con- 
tjiiued  in  the  bark,  with  the  formation  of  hydrocyanic  acid, 
glucose  and  a  volatile  oil.  A  fluid  extract,  infusion  and 
syrup  of  prunus  virginiana  are  official.  The  latter  prepara- 
tion is  sometimes  employed  in  cough  mixtures  for  dogs,  on 
account  of  its  sedative  action.  The  entire  value  of  the  drug 
depends  upon  the  minute  amount  of  prussic  acid  formed 
in  it.  The  official  hydrocyanic  acid  is  more  reliable,  but 
syrupus  pruni  virginianse  (U.  S.  P.)  maybe  used  as  a  vehicle 
for  more  efficient  remedies. 

Petrolatum.     (U.  S.  P.) 

(Three  varieties.) 

1. — Petrolatum  Liquidum.    Liquid  Petrolatum.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Derivation. — A  mixture  of  hydrocarbons,  chiefly  of  the 
marsh- gas  series,  obtained  by  distilling  off  the  lighter  and 
more  volatile  portions  from  petroleum,  and  purifying  the 
residue  when  it  has  the  desired  consistence. 

Properties.—  A  colorless,  or  more  or  less  yellowish,  oily, 
transparent  liquid,  without  odor  or  taste ;  or  giving  off,  when 
heated,  a  faint  odor  of  petroleum.  Spec.  gr.  about  0.875  — 
0.945.  Insoluble  in  water ;  scarcely  soluble  in  cold  or  hot 
alcohol,  or  cold  absolute  alcohol ;  but  soluble  in  boiling 
absolute  alcohol,  and  readily  soluble  in  ether,  chloroform, 
carbon  disulphide,  oil  of  turpentine,  benzin,  benzol,  and 
fixed  and  volatile  oils. 

2. — Petrolatum  Molle.     Soft  Petrolatum.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Vaseline,  cosmoline. 

Derivation, — A  mixture  of  hydrocarbons,  chiefly  of  the 


HARD  PETROLATUM  329 

marsh-gas  series,  obtained  by  distilliDg  off  the  lighter  and 
more  volatile  portions  from  petroleum,  and  purifying  the 
residue  when  it  has  reached  the  desired  melting  point. 
When  petrolatum  is  prescribed  or  ordered  without  further 
specification,  soft  petrolatum  is  dispensed. 

Properties. — A  fat-like  mass  of  about  the  consistence  of 
an  ointment,  varying  from  white  to  yellowish  or  yellow ; 
more  or  less  fluorescent  when  yellow,  especially  after  being 
melted ;  transparent  in  thin  layers,  completely  amorphous, 
and  without  odor  or  taste ;  or  giving  off,  when  heated,  a  faint 
odor  of  petroleum. 

The  melting  point  of  soft  petrolatum  ranges  about  40° 
and  45°  C.  (104°  and  113°  F.).  In  other  respects  soft  petro- 
latum has  the  characteristics  of  liquid  peti*olatum. 

3. — Petrolatum  Spissum.    Hard  Petrolatum.    (U.  8.  P.) 

Derivation. — A  mixture  of  hydrocarbons,  chiefly  of  the 
marsh-gas  series,  obtained  by  distilling  off  the  lighter  and 
more  volatile  portions  from  petroleum,  and  purifying  the 
residue  when  it  has  reached  the  desired  melting  point. 

Properties. — A  fat-like  mass  of  about  the  consistence  of 
an  ointment,  varying  from  white  to  yellowish  or  ^^ellow; 
more  or  less  fluorescent  when  yellow,  especially  affer  bt^iug 
melted;  transparent  in  thin  layers,  completely  amorphous, 
and  without  odor  or  taste;  or  giving  off,  when  heated,  a 
faint  odor  of  petroleum.  The  melting  point  of  hard  petro- 
latum ranges  about  45°  and  51°  C.  (113°  and  125°  R).  In 
other  respects  hard  petrolatum  has  the  characteristics  of 
liquid  petrolatum. 

Action  and  Uses. — Petrolatum  is  a  valuable  emollient. 
It  soothes,  protects  and  softens  parts  to  which  it  is  applied, 
and  is  superior  to  animal  and  vegetable  fats  and  oils  in  not 
becoming  rancid,  and  therefore  irritant  and  malodorous. 
Petrolatum  may  be  used  alone,  or  as  an  excipient  in  the 
preparation  of  ointments,  but  does  not  aid  the  absorption  of 
drugs  (as  do  alcohol,  glycerin,  chloroform,  and  animal  oils 


330  INORGANIC  AGENTS 

and  fats),  for  it  is  not  itself  absorbed  even  when  adminis- 
tered internally.  Petrolatum  exerts  a  demulcent  action 
upon  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  alimentary  tract,  and 
may  be  prescribed  in  electuary  or  capsule  in  inflamma- 
tion thereof.  Petrolatum  is  sold  universally  under  the 
proprietary  names  of  vaseline  and  cosmoline,  and  is  often 
combined  with  antiseptics  for  medicinal  and  surgical  pur- 
poses in  skin  diseases  and  upon  inflamed  mucous  mem- 
branes, blistered  and  abraded  surfaces  and  sores.  It  is  one 
of  the  most  useful  agents  in  lubricating  instruments,  pro- 
tecting metal  from  rust,  preserving  leather,  and  is  sometimes 
employed  as  a  vehicle  for  electuaries. 

Rhigolene.     (Non-official.) 

Rhigolene  is  a  petroleum  product  prepared  by  repeated 
distillation  until  the  liquid  boils  at  64.4°  F.  It  evaporates 
at  a  lower  temperature  than  any  other  substance,  except 
cymogene,  and  is  employed  as  a  spray  to  induce  numbness 
and  local  anaesthesia  of  a  part  in  minor  surgical  operations, 
such  as  paracentesis  of  an  abscess  or  the  use  of  the  actual 
cautery. 


PAKT  II. 
VEGETABLE    DRUGS, 


SECTION  I.— DEUGS  ACTING  UPON   THE  BRAIN. 
Class  1. — Depressing  the  Brain. 

Opium.     Opium.     (U.  S.  k  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — The  concrete,  milky  exudation  obtained  by 
incising  the  unripe  capsules  of  Papaver  somniferum  Linue 
(Nat.  Old.  Papaveraceae),  and  yielding  in  its  normal,  moist 
condition,  not  less  than  9  per  cent,  of  crystallized  morphine, 
when  assayed  by  the  official  process  (U.  S.  P.)  Opium  is 
procured  from  Turkey,  Asia  Minor,  Persia,  India  and  Egypt. 
The  Smyrna,  or  Turkey  opium  is  the  more  common  variety 
used  in  the  United  States.  It  occurs  in  irregular,  globular 
masses,  covered  with  poppy  leaves  and  capsules  of  a  species 
of  dock,  weighing  from  5  to  1  pound. 

Properties. — Irregular,  or  sub-globular  cakes,  with  the 
remnants  of  poppy  leaves  and  fruits  of  a  species  of  rumex 
adhering  to  the  surface ;  plastic,  or  of  a  harder  consistency ; 
chestnut-brown  or  darker,  and  somewhat  shining ;  internally 
shewing  some  tears  and  fragments  of  vegetable  tissue.  It 
has  a  sharp,  narcotic  odor,  and  a  peculiar,  bitter  taste.  It 
yields  its  medicinal  properties  to  water,  alcohol,  and  diluted 
acids,  forming  dark  brown  solutions.  Ether  extracts  its 
principles  in  part. 

Constitiients.  — There  are  nineteen  or  more  alkaloids ;  the 
three  first  are  used  in  human  medicine,  but  narceine  is  of 
no  value  in  veterinary  medicine. 


Morphine. 

3,5—22.8  per  cent. 

Thebaine. 

•.15—  1. 

per  cent. 

Codeine. 

.2—    .7   "      " 

Narcotine. 

1.3  —10. 

it      it 

Narceine. 

.1—    .7    **       '' 

Papaverine. 

1. 

ti      f 

332  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

In  addition  to  these,  the  following  exist  in  minute  quan- 
tity, but  some  are  merely  "pharmaceutical  curiosities": — 

Protopine.  Oi-ganic  Acids. 

Cryptopine,  Meconic  Acid. 

Oxynarcotine.  ^^*\^  ^^^^l- 

Hydronarcotine*^  Pectin. 

Laudanosine.  ^"^-         ^^'    percent. 

Laudaine.  ^«^^- 

Phoeadine.  ^^^^f^' 

Codamine.  T'^f  1  ^H''     , 

Meconodine.  A  Volatile  Oil. 

Gnoscopine.  ^^^^^"^  ^^^^^«- 

Lanthopine.  Caoutchouc 

Water.  15.-25.  percent.        Ammonium  Salts. 

Neutral  Bodies.  Calcium  Salts. 

Meconin.  Magnesium  Salts. 

Meconoisin. 

Impurities, — Starch,  molasses,  leaves,  fruit,  stones  and 
water. 

Incompatibility. — Solutions  of  lead  acetate  and  sub- 
acetate,  and  of  copper  and  arsenic  salts,  precipitate  mecon- 
ates,  sulphates  and  coloring  matters,  but  the  opium  remains 
physiologically  active.  Ferric  chloride  produces  a  deep  red 
color  with  opium,  by  its  union  with  meconic  acid.  Tannin 
compounds  precipitate  codeine  tannate.  Alkalies,  their  car- 
bonates and  ammonia  precipitate  morphine  and  narcotine. 

Dose.—B..,  3  i-ii.  (4.-8.) ;  C,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.) ;  Sh.,  gr.x.- 
XXX.  (.6-2.);  Sw.,  gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3);  D.,  gr.ss.-iii.  (.03-.2). 

Opii  Pulvis.     Powdered  Opium.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Opium  dried  at  a  temperature  not  exceding  85°  C. 
(185°  P.),  and  reduced  to  a  fine  powder.  Powdered  opium, 
for  pharmaceutical  or  medicinal  purposes,  when  assayed 
should  yield  not  less  than  thirteen  (13)  nor  more  than  fifteen 
(15)  per  cent,  of  crystallized  morphine.  Any  powdered 
opium  of  a  higher  percentage  may  be  brought  within  these 
limits  by  admixture  with  powdered  opium  of  a  lower  per- 
centage in  proper  proportions.  Powdered  opium  is  the  base 
of  all  the   other   pharmacopoeial    preparations   of  opinra. 


POWDERED   OPIUM  333 

Only  those   are  mentioned   here  which   are   applicable  to 
veterinary  practice. 

Dose. — Same  as  for  opium,  but  preferable  to  the  crude 
drug. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Opii.    Extract  of  Opium.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Powdered  opiuv.  IOC  "istilled  water,  1000;  sugar  of  milk,  a 
sufficient  quantity,  ivlade  by  trituration,  filtration,  and  evaporation. 
(U.  S.  P.) 

Dose. — About  one-half  that  of  powdered  opium.  H.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.); 
C,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  Sh.,  gr.v.-xv.  (.3-1.);  Sw.,  gr.ii.ss.-x.  (.15..6);  D., 
gr.J^-i.ss.  (.015-.09). 

Pulvis  IpecachuanhcB  et  Opii.   Powder  of  Ipecac  and  Opium.   (U.  S.  P.) 
Synonym.  — DoYer^s  powder,   E  ;   pulvis  ipecacuanhas  opiatus,  s. 

pulvis  Doweri,  P.  G.;  poudre  de  Dower,  Fr.;  Dower'sches  pulver,  G. 
Ipecac,  10 ;    powdered  opium,  10  ;    sugar  of  milk,  80.    The  most 

diarphoretic  compound  of  opium. 

Dose.— H.,   z  ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  D.,  gr.iii.-xv.  (.2-1). 

Tinctura  Ipecacuanhce  et  Opii.    Tincture  of  Ipecac  and  Opium. 

(U.  S.  P.) 
Synonym. — Liquid  Dover's  powder. 

Tincture  of  deodorized  opium,  1000 ;  fluid  extract  of  ipecac,  100 ; 
diluted  alcohol,  a  sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000.  Made  by  evapora- 
tion and  filtration. 

Dose. — Same  as  Dover's  powder. 

Tinctura  Opii.    Tincture  of  Opium.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Synonym. — Laudanum,  tinctura  meconii,  tinctura  thebaicse,  E.; 
tinctura  opii  simplex,  P.  G. ;  teinture  d'opium,  teinture  thebai'que,  Fr. ; 

einfache  opiumtinktur,  G. 

Powdered  opium,  1000 ;  alcohol,  400 ;  water,  400 ;  diluted  alcohol 
to  make  1000.  Made  by  trituration,  maceration  with  precipitated  cal- 
cium phosphate,  and  percolation.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.—U.y  I  i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  C,  I  ii.-iii.  (60.-90.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ii.-vi. 
(8.-24.);  D.,  TTiiii.-xx.  (  2-1.3). 

Tinctura  Opii  Camphorata.    Camphorated  Tincture  of  Opium. 

(U.  S.  P.) 
Synonym. — Tinctura  camphorae  composita,  B.  P.;  paregoric,  elixir 
paregoricum,  paregoric  elixir,  E.;  tinctura  opii  benzoica,  P.  G.;  elixir 
paregorique,  Fr. ;  benzoesaurehaltjge  opiumtinktur,  G. 


334  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

Powdered  opium,  4 ;  benzoic  acid,  4;  camphor,  4 ;  oil  of  anise,  4; 
glycerin,  40;  diluted  alcohol  to  make  1000.  Made  by  maceration  and 
filtration.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— D.,  3  i.-iv.  (4.-15.). 

Opium  Deodoratum.    Deodorized  Opium.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Opium  denarcotizatum. 

Powdered  opium  (containing  13-15  per  cent,  of  morphine),  100 ; 
ether,  1400  ;  sugar  of  milk  to  make  100  Made  by  repeated  maceration 
and  agitation  with  ether ;  evaporation  and  trituration  with  sugar  of 
milk.  The  ether  removes  narcotic  and  odorous  principles,  which  cause 
nausea  and  disagreeable  after-effects  in  opium. 

Dose. — Same  as  powdered  opium. 

Tinctura  Opii  Deodorata.    Tmcture  of  Deodorized  Opium.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Powdered  opinm,  100 ;  ether,  200 ;  alcohol,  200 ;  water  to  make 
1000.  Made  by  trituration  and  maceration  with  precipitated  calcium 
phosphate,  50 ;  percolation  and  evaporation. 

Dose. — Same  as  tincture  of  opium,  but  less  nauseating. 

Extractum  Opii  Liquidum.     (B.  P.) 
(Gr.  22  extract  of  opium  to  §  i.) 
Dose. — Same  as  laudanmn. 

Vinuvi  Opii.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
i)ose.— Same  as  laudanum. 


MoRPHiNA.     Morphine.     C^  H^g  N  O,  +  Hj  O. 

(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Au  alkaloid  obtained  from  opium. 

1.  Macerate  opium  in  cold  water,  forming  a  solution  of 
morphine  meconate.  2.  Add  calcium  chloride  to  precipitate 
calcium  meconate  and  resins.  3.  Evaporate  solution  remain- 
ing, which  contains  morphine  hydiochlorate,  till  it  crystal- 
lizes; press  in  flannel  to  remove  narcotine  and  coloring 
matter ;  redissolve ;  filter ;  evaporate  and  crystallize  repeat- 
edly. 4.  Decolorize  by  digestion  with  charcoal.  5.  Preci- 
pitate with  ammonia  and  wash,  when  pure  morphine  is 
separated  from  codeine. 

Properties. — Colorless  or  white,  shining  prismatic  crys- 
tals, or  fine  needles,  or  crystalline  powder;  odorless  and 


MOltPHINE    HYDROCHLORATE  335 

having  a  bitter  taste  ;  permanent  in  the  air  ;  soluble  in  4,350 
parts  of  water. 

Dose. — Same  as  salts  of  morphine,  but  the  latter  are 
preferable  on  account  of  their  solubility. 

Morphine  Hydrochlora.s.     Morphine  Hydrochlorate. 
C,,H,,N  O3H  CI  +  3  H,0.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation.  —  Morphine  is  stirred  with  hot  distilled 
water,  to  which  hydrochloric  acid  is  gradually  added.  Mor- 
phine hydrochlorate  crystallizes  out  on  cooling. 

Properties. — White,  feathery  needles  of  a  silky  lustre ; 
or  minute,  colorless,  needle-shaped  crystals ;  odorless  and 
having  a  bitter  taste.  Permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble  in  24 
parts  of  water  and  in  62  parts  of  alcohol.  Very  slightly 
soluble  in  ether  or  chloroform. 

Incompatibility. — Incompatible  with  all  agents  containing 
tannin,  alkaline  carbonates,  lime  water,  salts  of  copper,  mer- 
cury, zinc  and  lead ;  and  with  Fowler's  solution  of  arsenic. 

Dose.—B.,  &  C,  gr.iii.-x.  (.2-.6) ;  Sb.,  gr.ss.-ii.  (.03-.12) ; 
Sw.,  gr.-J^-i  (.006-03);  D.,  gr.|4  (.008-03). 

Subcutaneously.— H.,  gr.iii.-iv.  (.2-24);  D.,  gr.i-|  (.008.- 
.02). 

124-  parts  of  morphine  hydrochlorate  correspond  to 
100  parts  of  morphine. 

Morphine  Acetas.     Morphine  Acetate. 
C.H^eN  03C,H,0,  4  3  H,0.     (U.  S.  k  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Morphine  is  dissolved  in  acetic  acid  and 
water,  and  the  solution  evaporated  and  crystallized. 

Properties. — A  white,  or  faintly  yellowish- white,  crystal- 
line, amorphous  powder,  having  a  faint,  acetous  odor  and 
bitter  taste.  It  slowly  loses  acetic  acid  on  exposure  to  the 
air,  and  should  be  kept  in  dark,  amber-colored,  well:Stop- 
pered  vials.  Soluble,  when  freshly  prepared,  in  2.5  parts  of 
water,  and  in  47.6  parts  of  alcohol. 

Dose, — Same  as  morphine  hydrochlorate. 


336  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Morphine  Sulphas.     Morphine  Sulphate. 
(C,,Hi9N  O3),  H,S  O,  +  5  H,0.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Morphine  is  stirred  into  boiling  distilled 
water;  diluted  sulphuric  acid . is  added  until  neutralization 
is  attained,  and  the  sulphate*  crystallizes  out  on  cooling. 

Properties. — White,  feathery,  acicular  crystals  of  a  silky 
lustre;  odorless  and  having  a  bitter  taste.  Permanent  in 
the  air.  Soluble  in  21  parts  of  water,  and  in  702  parts  of 
alcohol. 

Dose. — Same  as  hydrochlorate.  125  parts  of  morphine 
sulphate  correspond  to  100  parts  of  the  pure  alkaloid. 

The  official  salts  of  morphine  may  be  used  interchange- 
ably. The  acetate  is  more  soluble,  but  less  stable,  than  the 
sulphate,  which  is  sufficiently  soluble  for  practical  purposes, 
and  is  in  more  common  use. 

Liquor  Morphine  Hydrochloratis.    (B.  P.) 

(Gr.4J-5i.) 

Dose.—B..,  3  vi.-  5  ii.  (24-60.);  D.,  %x.-  3  i.  (.6-4.). 

Liquor  Morphine  Acetatis.     (B.  P.) 
Same  strength  and  dose  as  above. 

Injeotio  Morphin;E  Hypodermica.    (B.  p.) 
(Gr.i  morphine  acetate  in  TTt^.) 

Dose.— H.,  111^xxx.-xl.  (2.-2.6);  D.,  11ti.-iii.  (.06-.2). 

SupposiTORiA  Morphine.     (B.  P.) 
(Gr.J  morphine.) 

Dose. — Dog,  1  per  rectum. 

CoDEiNA.     Codeine.     G,sH,,N03  -f-  H,0.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — An  alkaloid  obtained  from  opium  by  evapo- 
ration of  the  ammoni-ic.il  liquid,  after  the  precipitation  of 


HEROIN  337 

morphine.  The  residue  is  added  to  water,  precipitated  by 
potassium  hydrate,  and  redissolved  in  ether,  from  which 
codeine  crystallizes  out  on  evaporation. 

Properties. — White,  or  nearly  transparent,  orthorhom- 
bic  prisms,  or  octohedral  crystals;  odorless,  and  having 
a  faintly  bitter  taste;  slightly  efflorescent  in  warm  air. 
Soluble  in  80  parts  of  water,  and  in  3  parts  of  alcohol; 
also  soluble  in  30  parts  of  ether  and  in  2  parts  of . 
chloroform. 

Dose.—T>.,  gr.J-ii.  (.015-.12). 

Heroin. 
(Diacetylraorphine.) 

This  remedy,  derived  from  morphine,  was  first  intro- 
duced by  Dreser,  in  1898,  and  is  now  used  extensively  in 
human  medicine  as  a  substitute  for  morphine  and  codeine. 
Heroin  occurs  as  a  white,  odorless,  crystalline  powder, 
possessing  a  slightly  bitter  taste  and  alkaline  reaction. 
Practically  insoluble  in  water,  but  readily  soluble  in  weak 
acidulous  solutions. 

Heroin  hydrochloride  is  a  white,  crystalline,  odorless 
powder,  soluble  in  2  parts  of  water.  Heroin  surpasses  both 
morphine  and  codeine  therapeutically  in  many  ways.  It 
increases  markedly  the  inspiratory  and  expiratory  force, 
while  lessening  the  number  of  the  respiratory  movements, 
and  exerts  a  special  sedative  influence  on  the  respiratory 
mucous  membranes.  The  drug  acts  also  as  a  general  motor 
depressant  and  analgesic,  but  is  not  comparable  to  morphine 
in  these  respects.  The  fatal  dose  is  ten  times  that  of  code- 
ine, and  the  after-effects  (nausea,  constipation,  etc.)  are 
slight.  Heroin  is  particularly  valuable  in  the  treatment  of 
all  varieties  of  cough  affecting  the  human  subject,  and 
should  prove  useful  in  canine  practice. 

Heroin  may  be  administered  in  powder,  pill  or  tablei 
the  hydrochloride  in  solution,  every  few  hours. 

The  dose  of  either  is,  tor  the  dog,  gr.gV  i  (•0025-.01). 


338  vegetable  drugs 

Opium  and  Morphine. 

The  action  of  morphine  and  opium  is  practically  the 
same,  with  some  exceptions  to  be  noted. 

Action  External — Opium  may  be  absorbed  to  a  slight 
extent  from  the  unbroken  skin,  and  cause  a  mild,  anodyne 
action.  Absorption  readily  occurs  from  mucous  membranes 
and  raw  surfaces,  with  resulting  characteristic  effects. 

Action  Internal. — Digestive  Tract.  —  Opium  diminishes 
the  two  principal  activities  of  the  digestive  organs,  namely, 
secretion  and  motion.  Secretions  all  over  the  body  are 
decreased,  except  that  of  sweat.  The  action  upon  the  ali- 
mentary tract  in  lessening  secretion,  is  partly  a  local  one 
and  partly  constitutional,  following  the  absorption  of  the 
drug.  The  mouth  is  made  dry,  thirst  is  increased  and  appe- 
tite impaired.  Opium  is  absorbed  rather  slowly  from  the 
stomach  and  bowels,  and  stimulates  the  splanchnic  nerve 
centre  of  the  sympathetic  system,  wbicli  inhibits  the  move- 
ments of  the  stomach  and  intestines,  and  thus  lessens  peri- 
staltic action  of  these  organs.  Opium  is  directly  opposed 
to  belladonna  in  this  respect,  as  the  latter  drug  paralyzes 
the  intestinal  inhibitory  apparatus  (splanchnic  endings),  and 
so  increases  peristalsis. 

In  diminishing  both  secretion  and  motion,  opium  causes 
constipation  in  health,  but  is  most  useful  in  relieving 
vomiting  and  diarrhoea.  In  toxic  doses,  opium  may  induce 
diarrhoea  from  paralysis  of  the  splanchnic  inhibitory  centre. 

Blood  and  Eliminxition.  —  Morphine  circulates  in  the 
blood  as  such.  The  greater  part  of  opium  is  decomposed 
in  the  body,  a  portion  being  destroyed  by  the  liver,  while 
some  is  probably  burned  up  in  the  blood.  The  smaller 
part  is  eliminated,  chiefly  by  the  kidneys,  but  also  in  the 
other  secretions.  It  is  found  in  the  gastric  juice  after  hypo- 
dermic injection,  and  therefore  washing  out  the  stomach 
assists  elimination  and  recovery  in  opium  poisoning. 

Nervous  System. — The  most  important  action  of  opium 
is  exerted   upon   the  nervous  system.     It  is   necessary  to 


OPIUM  AND   MORPHINE  339 

study  the  drug  from  the  comparative  standpoint  in  order  to 
obtain  a  full  understanding  of  its  effects.  The  brain  of  man, 
being  more  highly  developed  and  sensitive,  in  comparison 
with  other  parts  of  the  nervous  system,  than  the  brain  of 
the  lower  animals,  it  follows  that  this  organ  is  more  power- 
fully influenced  in  man,  while  the  spinal  cord  is  often 
mainly  impressed  in  the  lower  animala. 

We  may  take  the  action  of  opium  on  the  frog,  at  one 
end  of  the  scale,  as  exhibiting  the  most  active  spinal  symp- 
toms; while  in  man,  at  the  other  end  of  the  scale,  cerebral 
phenomena  predominate.  The  other  animals  occupy  an 
intermediate  position;  the  action  upon  the  horse  and  rumi- 
nants is  something  between  that  exerted  upon  the  frog  and 
man,  and  the  influence  upon  dogs  approaches  more  nearly 
that  seen  in  human  beings,  only  that  a  relatively  greater 
dose  is  required  to  produce  the  same  result,  as  the  brain  is 
not  so  highly  organized  or  sensitive  to  the  action  of  medi- 
cines. The  brain  of  the  horse  is  only  one-twelfth  as  large, 
in  proportion  to  their  respective  body-weights,  as  that  of 
man,  and  it  follows  that  the  spinal  cord  of  the  horse  is  more 
readily  affected  by  opium,  in  accordance  with  the  general 
law  that  the  more  highly  developed  a  part  is,  the  more 
easily  is  it  influenced  by  therapeutic  agents. 

Opium  exerts  first  a  stimulating,  and  then  a  depressing 
action  upon  the  brain  and  spinal  cord,  and  in  studying  the 
action  comparatively  it  will  be  noted  that  the  influence 
upon  the  cord  in  the  frog,  horse,  ruminant,  and  lo  some 
extent  in  the  dog,  preponderates  frequently  over  the  effect 
of  the  drug  upon  the  brain,  for  the  reasons  stated  above. 

Action  Upon  the  Frog. — In  minute  non-poisonous  doses, 
sleep  is  produced,  followed  by  a  period  of  reflex  excitement. 
Toxic  doses  of  one  or  two  grains  of  morphine,  injected  under 
the  skin,  cause  at  first  a  condition  where  convulsions  occur, 
if  the  animal  is  artificially  irritated ;  later  they  come  on 
spontaneously.  This  state  is  followed  by  general  paralysis, 
respiratory  failure  and  death.  The  convulsions  are  shown 
to  be  due  mainly  to  irritation  of  the  spinal  reflex  centres, 


340  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

partly  to  action  upon  the  motor  tract  of  the  brain,  and 
finally  proceed  from  direct  local  stimulation  of  the  motor 
nerve  endings  and  muscles. 

Action  Upon  Horses. — Three  grains  of  morphine,  injected 
subcataneously,  occasion  sometimes  drowsiness,  and  at 
other  times  produce  no  visible  effect.  Four  to  six  grains^ 
given  in  the  same  way,  cause  restlessness,  a  rapid  pulse,  and 
moisture  of  the  skin.  The  animal  paws  the  ground  and 
walks  in  a  rythmical  manner  about  the  stall.  The  pupils 
are  dilated.  Large  doses  (12  grains)  are  followed  by  in- 
creased excitement,  sweating,  muscular  rigidity  and  trem- 
bling; while  still  larger  doses  (four  drachms  of  the  extract 
of  opium)  cause  violent  trembling,  convulsions,  insensibility 
to  pain  and  external  irritation,  without  coma ;  or  (morphine, 
gr.  36  under  the  skin)  stupor  for  several  hours  (3  hours), 
dilated  pupils  and  blindness,  followed  by  delirium  and  rest- 
lessness, continuing  for  a  longer  time  (7  hours)  and  ending 
in  recovery.  Horses  have  recovered  from  an  ounce  of 
opium,  but  2J  ounces  of  the  drug,  and  100  grains  of  mor- 
phine have  proved  fatal.  The  action  of  opium  upon  the 
horse  differs  from  that  upon  man  and  dogs  in  the  more 
frequent  occurrence  of  restlessness  and  motor  excitement 
due  to  stimulation  of  the  cerebral  and  spinal  motor  centres; 
and  in  dilatation  instead  of  contraction  of  the  pupil. 
The  rationale  of  the  latter  phenomenon  has  not  been 
discovered. 

Action  Upon  Ruminants. — These  animals  are  comjmra- 
tively  insusceptible  to  opium.  Ounce  doses  of  the  drug 
cause,  in  cattle,  restlessness,  excitement,  hoarse  bellowing, 
dry  mouth,  nausea,  indigestion  and  tympanites.  Sheep  are 
affected  in  much  the  same  manner.  One  to  two  drachms  of 
morphine  have  led  to  fatality  in  cattle.  Fifteen  to  thirty 
grains  of  the  alkaloid  comprise  a  lethal  dose  for  sheep. 
Swine  are  variously  influenced;  sometimes  excited,  some- 
times dull  and  drowsy. 

Action  Upon  Birds. — Birds,  as  represented  by  chickens, 
ducks  and  pigeons,  are  exceedingly  insusceptible  to  opium. 


OPIUM  AND   MORPHINE  341 

Pigeons  cannot  be  given  enough  opium  l»y  the  mouth  to 
cause  death,  but  8  to  10  grs.  of  morphine  per  orem,  or  2  or 
3  grs.  hypodermatically,  will  prove  fatal.  The  toxic  symp- 
toms in  birds  are  exhibited  by  unsteadiness,  difficult 
breathing  and  failure  of  respiration,  convulsions  and  death. 
The  pupils  are  unaffected,  and  sleep  does  not  ensue. 

Action  Upon  Dogs. — When  8  or  10  grains  of  morphine 
are  given  to  a  moderate  sized  dog,  coma  comes  on,  from 
which  the  animal  may  recover.  One  half  a  grain  injected 
under  the  skin  of  a  dog  weighing  25  lbs.,  causes  nausea, 
vomiting  and  perhaps  purging,  sleep  deepening  into  coma, 
contracted  pupils,  and  shallow  breathing ;  the  condition 
lasting  for  several  hours  and  followed  by  recovery.  Opium 
rarely  exerts  an  hypnotic  action  upon  cats,  but  rather  motor 
excitement.  Lethal  doses  (average,  4  grains  of  morphine 
sulphate  subcutaneously  to  the  pound, live  weight,  for  dogs; 
2  to  3  grains  sometimes  kill  small  dogs),  increase  the 
frequency  of  the  pulse,  cause  vomiting,  unsteadiness,  con- 
tracted pupils,  motor  excitement,  as  twitching  of  the  limbs 
and  convulsions,  followed  by  coma,  respiratory  failure  and 
death.  Recovery  from  full  doses  of  opium  is  accompanied 
in  dogs  by  general  physical  and  mental  depression  and 
lassitude,  as  in  man.  There  are  muscular  weakness,  loss  of 
natural  spirit,  timidity,  and  nausea,  lasting  for  several  hours. 
The  action  of  opium  upon  dogs  differs  from  that  upon  man 
only  in  degree.  The  dose  required  is  proportionately  larger. 
There  is  often  more  preliminary  excitement  and  symptoms 
of  reflex  irritation,  as  muscular  twitching.  These  animals 
do  not  sweat,  and  the  pupils  are  not  so  continuously  con- 
tracted in  poisoning.  Failure  of  the  drug  to  produce  sleep, 
.  nd  the  presence  of  nausea,  retching,  dreams,  delirium, 
hallucinations,  occasionally  observed  in  dogs,  are  common 
to  man.     Convulsions  rarely  occur  in  either  men  or  dogs. 

Action  Upon  3Ian. — In  man,  a  small  dose  of  morphine 
(i  8^')  causes  usually  a  sense  of  well-being,  together  with 
itching  of  the  nose,  and  later,  of  the  skin  generally,  dryness 
of  the  mouth  (occasionally  there  may  be  nausea,  vomiting 


342  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

and  faintness),  followed  by  sleep,  or  a  pleasant,  dreamy  state. 
After-effects  may  be  absent,  or  consist  of  nausea,  headache, 
coated  tongne  and  constipation.  If  the  dose  is  larger,  sleep 
comes  on  quickly,  the  pupils  are  contracted,  the  respiratory 
movements  and  pulse  become  slow,  and  the  skin  is  moist 

"With  lethal  doses,  sleep  deepens  into  coma,  from  which 
the  patient  can  at  first  be  aroused ;  the  coma  becomes  pro- 
found, the  pulse  feeble  and  rapid,  the  respiration  stertorous, 
slow  and  imperfect.  The  mucous  membranes  are  cyanotic, 
the  face  livid,  the  pupils  dilate,  and  the  surface  is  covered 
with  clammy  sweat.  Death  occurs  from  respiratory  failure, 
occasionally  preceded  by  convulsions.  One-eighth  of  one 
grain  of  morphine  is  the  smallest  fatal  human  dose  recorded. 
The  action  of  opium  upon  man,  as  compared  with  that  upon 
the  horse  and  ruminants,  is  characterized  by  its  predominant 
depressing  effect  upon  the  higher  mental  functions.  The 
motor  centres  of  the  brain  and  cord  are  only  slightly 
influenced. 

General  Action  of  Opium  Upon  the  Nervous  System. — The 
action  of  opium  upon  the  nervous  system  may  be  summar- 
ized in  primary  central  stimulation,  followed  by  depression 
and  paralysis.  In  man  and  the  dog,  the  cerebral  depression 
is  more  prominent;  in  the  horse,  the  stimulant  action  upon 
the  motor  centres  of  the  brain  and  spinal  cord  is  more 
marked ;  while  considerable  depression  only  appears  in  the 
later  stage  of  poisoning. 

Opium  illustrates  the  law  of  dissolution  in  the  order  of 
its  action,  i.  e.,  in  the  more  highly  organized  functions  being 
the  first  to  succumb;  while  the  lower  centres  are  the  last  to 
be  influenced.  Stimulation  of  the  cerebrum  is  exhibited  by 
exalted  intellectual  power  in  man;  by  motor  excitement  in 
animals.  This  stage,  comparatively  short  in  man  and  dogs, 
is  succeeded  by  depression  of  the  intellectual  functions  and, 
to  a  less  extent,  of  the  cerebral  motor  centres.  Depression 
is  exhibited  by  sleep  and  insensibility  to  sound,  light,  exter- 
nal irritation  and  pain.  Eelief  of  suffering  often  occurs 
without  sleep,  and  is  due  to  the  depressing  action  of  the 


OPIUM   AND   MORPHINE  3 13 

drug  upon  the  brain,  nnd  not  to  any  direct  iiifluence  upon 
the  sensory  nerves,  which  are  unaffected  except  in  the  later 
stage  of  poisoning.  The  unique  and  inestimable  value  of 
opium  depends  upon  its  anodyne  action.  Depression  of  the 
brain  in  relation  to  the  cortical  centres,  is  not  sufficient  to 
cause  paralysis  in  man,  except  in  poisoning.  Muscular 
weakness  is  present  in  man  and  dogs,  but  even  this  evidence 
of  depression  may  be  absent  in  horses  and  ruminants,  yet 
pain  be  effectually  relieved.  Contraction  of  the  pupil,  in 
man  and  dogs,  is  due  to  stimulation  of  the  oculomotor 
nerve,  probably  through  excitation  of  the  pupillary  centre. 

Dilatation,  which  occurs  in  poisoning,  is  due  to  para- 
lysis of  this  centre.  Initial  stimulation  of  the  vomiting 
centre  may  cause  emesis ;  but,  as  depression  of  the  centre 
rapidly  ensues,  the  act  becomes  later  improbable.  The 
•motor  tract  of  the  spinal  cord  is  first  stimulated  and  reflex 
excitability  increased.  This  action,  brief  and  slight  in  men 
and  dogs,  is  more  prolonged  and  prominent  in  horses  and 
ruminants.  Depression  of  the  spinal  motor  cells  succeeds 
excitation,  and  reflex  action  is  abolished.  The  excitability 
of  the  motor  and  sensory  nerves  is  slightly  increased,  but 
otherwise  the  nerves  are  not  affected  except  in  poisoning, 
when  the  sensory,  and  later  the  motor  nerves  are  paralyzed. 
The  muscles  remain  uninfluenced.  Depression  of  the 
medulla  closes  the"  scene,  with  paralysis  of  the  respiratory 
centre. 

Respiration. — Opium  does  not  influence  the  respiratory 
functions  in  small  therapeutic  doses,  but  large  doses  make 
the  respiratory  movements  slower  and  feebler,  and  death 
occurs  from  the  direct  depressing  and  paralyzing  action  of 
the  drug  upon  the  respiratory  centres  in  the  medulla. 

Circulation. — Small  doses  commonly  produce  little  effect 
upon  the  heart.  Large  doses  first  increase  the  force  and 
frequency  of  the  heart's  action,  while  toxic  quantities  depress 
the  organ.  This  result  is  due  to  a  two-fold  action  upon  the 
circulation,  including  the  heart  muscle  (or  its  ganglia)  and 
the  inhibitory  apparatus.     The  cardiac  muscle  is  primarily 


344  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

stimulated,  with  acceleration  of  the  pulse,  but  depression 
soon  follows  more  or  less  synchronously  with  stimulation  of 
the  vagus  centre  and  endings,  so  that  the  pulse  becomes 
infrequent.  Finally,  before  death,  depression  of  the  inhibi- 
tory apparatus  occurs,  and  this,  coexisting  with  depression 
of  the  heart  itself,  produces  a  feeble,  rapid  pulse,  character- 
istic of  the  last  stage  of  opium  poisoning.  Death  occurs 
with  diastolic  arrest  of  the  heart  owing  to  failure  of  the 
cardiac  muscle,  although  fatality  is  mainly  due  to  the 
more  powerful  effect  of  the  drug  upon  the  respiratory 
centre. 

The  action  of  opium  upon  the  vasomotor  system  is 
unimportant.  Immediately  after  the  administration  of  large 
doses  there  is  a  slight  primary  stimulation,  followed  in  the 
toxic  stage  by  some  depression  of  the  vasomotor  centres 
in  the  spinal  cord  and  medulla. 

Pupil. — The  pupil  of  the  horse  is  widely  dilated  by 
large  doses  of  opium.  The  pupil  in  the  dog  occasionally 
remains  unchanged,  and  often  dilated  before  undergoing 
contraction.  Contraction  of  the  pupil  is  a  charactistic 
physiological  effect  of  large  doses  of  opium  in  man  and  the 
dog.  In  birds  the  pupil  is  unaffected.  These  various  con- 
tradictory phenomena  are  at  present  inexplicable. 

In  man,  contraction  of  the  pupil  is  brought  about  by 
stimulation  of  the  pupillary  centre  in  the  floor  of  the 
aqueduct  of  Sylvius,  and  through  it,  the  oculomotor  nerves. 
Dilatation,  preceding  death,  occurs  from  depression  of  the 
centre. 

Kidneys  and  Metabolism, — The  excretion  of  urea  appears 
to  be  increased  by  opium  in  man,  but  varies  greatly  in 
animals.  Temporary  retention  of  urine  may  follow  the 
administration  of  a  considerable  dose  of  opium,  owing  to 
diminished  sensibility  of  the  bladder.  The  amount  of  urine 
voided  may  be  greater  or  less  than  normal ;  more  commonly 
the  latter.     Opium  lessens  the  secretion  of  bile. 

The  elimination  of  carbonic  dioxide  is  diminished  by 
the  hypnotic  action  of  opium,  but  is  increased  if  there  is 


OPIUM   AND   MORPHINE  345 

general  excitement  and  muscular  activity  following  the  use 
of  the  drug. 

Skin. — Opium  induces  mild  diarphoresis  in  man;  occa- 
sionally sweating  occurs  in  horses,  but  not  at  all  in  dogs. 

Temperature. — The  bodily  temperature  may  be  slightly 
increased  by  large  medicinal  doses  of  opium,  but  is  dimin- 
ished by  toxic  quantities. 

Toxicology. — The  symptoms  of  poisoning  have  already 
been  sufficiently  described  in  previous  sections.  The  treat- 
ment embraces  irrigation  of  the  stomach,  or  the  use  of 
emetics,  as  apomorphine  hydrochlorate  under  the  skin,  and 
the  subcutaneous  injection  of  strychnine  and  atropine  sul- 
phate in  the  first  stages,  and  enemata  of  hot,  strong,  black 
coffee;  leading  the  animal  about,  slapping  him,  or  using  the 
faradic  current.  Dr.  Moor,  of  New  York,  has  apparently 
found  in  potassium  permanganate  the  most  efficient  antidote 
for  opium  and  morphine.  Ten  to  fifteen  grains,  dissolved 
in  eight  ounces  of  water,  should  be  given  by  the  mouth,  to 
large  dogs.  One  to  two  drachms  of  potassium  perman- 
ganate may  be  administered  to  horses  in  two  or  three  pints 
of  water.  Permanganate  solution  oxidizes  and  destroys 
morphine,  and  should  be  acidulated- with  a  little  vinegar  or 
diluted  sulphuric  acid,  after  the  ingestion  of  morphine  ealts. 
The  antidote  has  been  recommended  to  be  given  subcutan- 
eously  after  absorption,  or  hypodermic  injection  of  morphine, 
but  this  is  not  of  the  slightest  use. 

Morphine  Contrasted  ivitJi  Opium. — Opium  is  more  con- 
stipating, more  sudorific,  and  more  apt  to  disturb  the 
digestion  than  morphine.  Morphine  is  more  anodyne  and 
soporific ;  more  readily  absorbed  and  more  suitable  for  use 
under  the  skin. 

Synergists. — Belladonna  aids  the  action  of  opium  and 
yet  is  antagonistic  to  it.  It  assists  opium  in  its  anodyne 
action  and  lessens  nausea,  indigestion,  and  constipation 
following  the  action  of  the  latter  drug.  Belladonna  and 
atropine  are  antagonistic  to  opium  in  stimulating  the  brain 
and  respiration,  and  increasing  peristalsis.     Small  doses  of 


316  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

belladonna  combined  with  opium  do  not  interfere  with  the 
soporific  action  of  the  latter,  notwithstanding  the  exciting^ 
influence  of  the  former  upon  the  brain.  The  bromides  also 
promote  the  sedative  and  hypnotic  action  of  opium,  and 
lessen  the  depression  and  nausea  following  its  administra- 
tion. Opium  often  acts  profoundly  when  combined  with 
chloral,  and  this  combiuaiion  is  occasionally  used  to  induce 
anaesthesia  (p.  301).  Chloroform  and  ether  are  frequently 
prescribed  with  opium  to  secure  an  additional  antispasmodic 
and  anodyne  action  in  colic.  The  astringents  and  mineral 
acids  enhance  the  effect  of  opium  in  diarrhoeal  disorders. 

Codeine. — Codeine  in  large  doses  causes  motor  excite- 
ment and  convulsions  in  dogs  and  cats,  but  ph^^siological 
experiments  conducted  by  various  observers  have  otherwise 
yielded  diverse  results.  This  is  explicable,  since  so-called 
codeine  is  frequently  in  part  morphine.  Codeine  is  inferior 
to  morphine  as  an  anodyne  and  hypnotic,  but  is  a  useful 
sedative  in  relieving  bronchial  irritation  and  cough,  and  iu 
the  doses  commonly  employed  does  not  induce  indigestion, 
nausea  or  constipation.  The  writer  would  particularly 
recommend  it  for  dogs  suffering  with  bronchitis,  combined 
with  phenacetin  in  powder  or  tablet.  The  other  alkaloids- 
of  opium  are  not  of  sufiicient  therapeutic  value  to  warrant 
their  consideration  in  this  woiL 

Administration. — Morphine  sulphate  is  employed  under 
the  skin  where  an  immediate  effect  is  required.  The  prepa- 
rations more  frequently  used  in  veterinary  practice  include 
laudanum  and  the  deodorized  tincture,  powdered  opium^ 
extract  of  opium,  and  the  salts  of  morphine.  One-quarter 
grain  of  the  latter  is  equivalent  to  one  grain  of  opium. 
Paregoric  is  useful  in  canine  practice  for  cough  mixtures. 
Dover's  powder  combines  the  expectorant  and  diarphoretie 
action  of  ipecac  with  the  sedative,  antiphlogistic  and  sudo- 
rific influence  of  opium,  but  the  former  drug  has  little  effect 
upon  the  horse.  The  preparation  may  be  serviceable,  how- 
ever, in  the  first  stage  of  catarrhal  affections  of  the  respira- 
tory tract  in  dogs. 


INDICATIONS   FOR  THE   INTERNAL  USE   OF  OPIUM  347 

Fliiid  preparations  are  generally  desirable  in  securing 
more  rapid  absorption,  but  opium  produces  the  best  result 
in  diarrhoea,  when  given  in  pill  or  ball.  Enemata  composed 
of  thin,  boiled  starch  solution  and  laudanum  at  the  body 
temperature  are  to  be  recommended  in  diarrhoea  of  the 
young,  dysentery  and  pain  arising  from  strangury  or  disease 
of  the  genito-urinary  organs.  Opium  suppositories  are  of 
value  in  canine  practice  for  the  same  purposes,  and  will 
relieve  irritation  and  pain  caused  by  piles. 

Uses  External. — Opium  is  applied  externally  in  various 
ways.  In  the  form  of  laudanum  it  is  sprinkled  on  poultices 
and  prescribed  in  liniment  (laudanum  and  soap  liniment, 
equal  parts)  for  its  anodyne  action,  but  has  probably  little 
medicinal  virtue  upon  the  unbroken  skin.  On  raw  surfaces, 
sores  and  ulcers,  opium  does  relieve  pain,  and  for  this  pur- 
pose laudanum  may  be  conjoined  advantageously  with  lead 
water  (1-25). 

INDICATIONS  FOR  THE  INTERNAL  USE   OF  OPIUM. 

1.  To  relieve  pain  and  spasm. 

2.  To  lessen  secretions. 

3.  To  allay  motor  excitement,  diminish  muscular  action, 
and  prevent  hemorrhage. 

4.  To  abort  inflammation. 

5.  To  act  as  a  stimulating  and  supporting  agent. 

The  sudorific  action  of  the  drug  upon  the  lower  animals 
is  slight  and  comparatively  unimportant.  Among  the  pre- 
ceding indications  the  first  three  naturally  follow  from  the 
physiological  action  of  opium,  while  the  latter  two  are 
deduced  solely  from  clinical  experience. 

1.  Although  the  anodyne  and  sedative  action  of  opium 
is  not  so  marked  in  its  influence  upon  veterinary  patients 
as  in  human  subjects,  yet  it  is  by  far  the  most  valuable 
agent  we  possess  for  relieving  pain  of  any  description,  parti- 
cularly when  combined  with  atropine.  In  spasmodic  colic 
of  horses,  opium  arrests  pain  by  preventing  irregular  and 
violent  peristaltic  action.     It  may  be  given  as  morphine 


348  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

(with  atropine),  subcutaneously;  or  as  laudanum,  with  ether 
and  chloroform  in  a  drench,  simultaneously  with  an  aloes 
ball.  In  this  affection  opium  actually  assists  the  action 
of  the  purgative  by  overcoming  spasm.  Pain  directly 
antagonizes  the  effect  of  opium,  and  repetition  of  the  dose 
is  both  justifiable  and  necessary  until  relief  is  obtained. 
Hypodermic  medication  is  therefore  safer  when  the  dose 
has  to  be  repeated,  in  enabling  the  practitioner  to  decide 
that  failure  to  relieve  pain  is  due  to  insufficient  dosage 
rather  than  to  delayed  absorption  from  the  digestive  canal. 

Opium  is  indicated  in  all  forms  of  pain,  unless  it  be 
caused  by  congestion  or  inflammation  of  the  brain  substance 
(cerebritis).  The  pains  and  spasmodic  contractions  result- 
ing from  acute  or  traumatic  meningitis  are  benefited  by 
opium ;  also  neuralgic  and  rheumatic  pains.  The  after- 
pains  of  parturition  are  relieved  by  opium  in  causing 
relaxation  of  the  unstriped  uterine  muscle.  The  spasms  of 
tetanus  are  eased  when  opium  is  combined  with  chloral 
in  enema,  or  when  morphine  is  injected  under  the  skin. 
Clonic  spasm  of  the  diaphragm  in  horses  ("Thumps")  is 
also  treated  successfully  with  opium. 

2  and  3.  Opium  is  invaluable  in  lessening  secretion, 
motion  and  pain  in  various  digestive  disorders.  Gastric 
digestion  is  inhibited  by  the  action  upon  secretion  and 
motion,  and  opium  should  not  be  administered  immediately 
after  the  ingestion  of  food,  unless  the  demand  for  it  at  that 
time  is  imperative. 

Excessive  vomiting  in  dogs  may  be  combated  with 
opium  and  bismuth,  or  with  morphine  hypodermatically. 
Opium  quiets  peristalsis  and  secures  rest  of  the  canal  in 
gastritis  and  gas tro- enteritis.  In  superpurgation  and  in  all 
forms  of  diarrhoea  and  dysentery,  opium  is  the  remedy  par 
excellence.  (Laudanum  in  dose  of  5-10  drops  for  large  birds  is 
an  efficient  remedy  for  diarrhoea  in  poultry).  Its  administra- 
tion in  these  disorders  should  be  accompanied,  or  preceded, 
by  an  oleaginous  (horse),  saline  (herbivora),  or  mercurial 
(horse  and  dog)  purgative ;   and  its  action  may  be  assisted 


INDICATIONS  FOR  THE   INTERNAL   USE   OF   OPIUM  349 

by  astringents,  alkalies,  mineral  acids,  and  intestinal  antisep- 
tics in  various  combinations  suited  to  the  particular  case. 

Peritonitis,  enteritis,  and  acute  obstruction  of  the  bowels 
are  treated  most  successfully  witli  opium,  which  quiets  the 
bowels,  relieves  pain  and  facilitates  the  vis  medatrix  naturae, 
besides  acting  as  an  anti[)hlogistic  in  the  first-mentioned 
diseases.  By  preventing  muscular  activity  and  allaying 
general  excitability,  opium  is  the  most  effective  haemostatic 
in  all  internal  hemorrhages. 

Cough,  as  a  symptom  of  irritation  within  the  res- 
piratory tract,  is  more  commonly  treated  by  some  form  of 
opium  than  by  any  other  drug.  When  cough  is  irrita- 
tive or  excessive,  and  is  not  remedial  in  removing  secre- 
tion, then  it  is  very  properly  controlled  by  opium.  If, 
on  the  other  hand,  respiratory  movements  .are  weak,  or 
cyanosis  threatens  from  retained  secretions,  opium  is  dis- 
tinctly contraindicated,  since  it  depresses  the  respiratory 
centres  and  lessens  the  irritation  produced  by  the  secre- 
tions in  the  bronchial  tubes,  which  would  otherwise  cause 
coughing  and  expulsion  of  the  exudate. 

Opium,  especially  when  combined  with  belladonna, 
notably  diminishes  secretions,  so  that  this  combination  is 
peculiarly  appropriate  in  the  treatment  of  cough  and  exuda- 
tion, and  it  is  only  when  increasing  moist  rales  are  found  to 
exist  during  this  medication  that  it  should  be  stopped. 
Pleuritic  cough  causes  intense  ])ain  and  accomplishes 
nothing,  so  that  opium  here  affords  great  relief  without 
inducing  bad  results. 

4.  Opium  possesses  antiphlogistic  action  in  aborting 
and  combatting  inflammation.  Reflex  excitability  is  less- 
ened by  opium,  and  therefore  irritation  of  nerve  centres, 
which  would  otherwise  cause  vascular  dilatation,  stasis,  and 
inflammation,  is  prevented  l^y  the  drug.  This  is  at  least 
the  theory.  Opium  and  quinine  are  the  two  remedies  having 
the  most  popular  clinical  reputation  for  aborting  colds  and 
inflammation,  and  the  latter  agent  also  diminishes  reflex 
excitability.     Inflammation  of  serous  membranes  is  thought 


OF   TWM  ^ 


350  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

to  1)0  that  form  most  favorably  influenced  by  opium,  as  peri- 
tonitis, enteritis  ix))d  meningitis,  for  which  purpose  the  drug 
is  frequently  combined  with  calomel.  But  opium  is  also  an 
extremely  useful  antiphlogistic  remedy  in  coryza,  bronchitis, 
pneumonia  and  pleurisy,  and  in  inflammations  of  the  mucous 
coat  of  the  digestive  canal,  as  gastritis  and  dysentery.  A 
single  full  dose  should  be  given  at  the  earliest  possible 
stage  of  these  disorders,  and  the  patient  should  be  kept  as 
quiet  as  possible  to  secure  the  best  result. 

5.  Opium  stimulates  and  supports  tlie  system  in  a 
manner  not  explicable  on  physiological  grounds.  It  often 
conserves  life  in  a  remarkable  way  in  patients  weakened  by 
long  continued  disease,  and  in  those  suffering  from  loss  of 
blood  following  surgical  operation,  parturition,  or  other 
natural  causes. 

Contra-indications. — In  respiratory  diseases  associated 
with  cyanosis  or  excessive  exudation,  in  cerebritis,  in  very 
high  fever  and  obstinate  constipation.  The  drug  must  be  used 
with  caution  in  the  treatment  of  the  aged  and  very  young. 

ApoMORPHiNiE  Hydrochloras.   Apo morphine  Hydrochlorate. 
C,,H,,N  0,H  CI.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — The  hydrochlorate  of  an  artificial  alkaloid, 
obtained  by  heating  morphine  (or  codeine)  in  hermetically 
closed  tubes,  with  an  excess  of  pure  hydrochloric  acid.  The 
morphine  thus  loses  one  molecule  of  water ;  Cj^HigN  O3  = 
C,,H,,N  O,  +  H,0. 

Proijerties.  —  Minute,  grayish  -  white,  shining,  acicnlar 
crystals,  without  odor,  having  a  faintly  bitter  taste,  and 
acquiring  a  greenish  tint  upon  exposure  to  light  and  air. 
Soluble  in  about  45  parts  of  water,  and  about  45  parts  of 
alcohol ;  very  little  soluble  in  ether  or  chloroform.  It  should 
be  kept  in  small,  dark,  amber-colored  vials.     (U,  S.  P.) 

Dose. — Emetic. — D.,  gr.^-^ig^  (.002-.006),  subcutaneously ; 
,D.,by  the  mouth,  rr^^  (.008-.012);  D.,  expectorant,  gr.^-^ 
(.0015-.0024),  by  the  mouth. 


APOMORPHINE  351 


PREPARATION. 


Injectio  Apomorphince  Hypodermica,     (B.  P.) 
(2  grains  in  100  minims  camphor  water.) 
Dose.— D.,  TTlii.-v.  (.12-.3). 

Action  Internal. — Small  doses  (^r.^Jg-^)  cause  vomiting 
in  dogs,  while  larger  doses  produce  salivation  and  trembling 
in  addition  to  vomition.  Very  large  quantities  (gr.4-5)  occa- 
sion first  great  excitement;  the  dog  howls,  runs  and  jumps 
about,  the  pupils  are  dilated  and  the  slightest  noise  excites 
great  alarm.  Then  the  animal  weakens  in  the  hind  legs, 
becomes  paraplegic,  falls  and  goes  into  convulsions.  The 
breathing,  at  the  beginning  rapid,  becomes  weak  and  slow. 
Death  ensues  from  respiratory  failure. 

Nervous  System.  —  The  drug  primarily  stimulates  the 
brain  and  induces  delirium  and  excitement,  but  secondarily 
causes  cerebral  paralysis.  The  origin  of  the  convulsions  is 
not  ascertained.  Apomorphine  is  a  direct  local  paralyzant 
to  the  muscles,  acting  upon  their  substance  or  upon  the 
motor  nerve  endings. 

Circulation. — Medicinal  doses  do  not  alter  the  force,  but 
may  increase  the  rate  and  tension  of  the  pulse  by  stimula- 
tion of  the  cardiac  accelerator  nerves  and  vasomotor  centres. 
Toxic  doses  paralyze  the  heart  muscle  and  lower  blood 
pressure. 

Respiration.  —  The  respiratory  movements  are  at  first 
markedly  increased  by  large  doses  of  apomorphine.  The 
reason  for  this  is  uncertain.  Lethal  doses  depress  and 
paralyze  the  respiratory  centre.  The  breathing  then  be- 
comes feeble  and  infrequent.  The  agent  causes  a  copious 
outpouring  of  a  watery  fluid  from  the  blood  vessels  of  the 
respiratory  mucous  membrane,  and  is,  therefore,  an  expec- 
torant. 

Vomiting  Centre.  —  This  is  stimulated  by  therapeutic 
doses  of  apomorphine,  but  paralyzed  by  toxic  doses,  so  that 
vomiting  may  not  occur  in  poisoning.  Apomorphine  does 
not  act  locally  upon  the  stomach. 


352  VEGETABLE  DUUGS 

Uses, — Apomorphine  is  a  reliable,  prompt  and  powerful 
emetic.  The  alkaloid  is  generally  given  under  the  skin  and 
can  be  administered  along  with  zinc  sulphate  or  other  emetic 
in  poisoning.  In  narcotic  poisoning,  as  with  chloral  or 
opium,  apomorphine — like  other  emetics— may  fail  to  act 
efficiently.  In  the  first  stage  of  acute  bronchitis,  apomor- 
phine is  useful  in  canine  practice,  and  again  in  the  later 
stage,  when  the  animal  becomes  choked  with  exudation. 
The  drug,  in  a  mild  emetic  dose,  will  aid  recovery  by  causing 
violent  expiratory  efforts  during  vomition,  and  these  tend  to 
expel  secretions,  which  is  furthermore  assisted  by  the  action 
of  the  alkaloid  in  rendering  the  secretions  less  viscid. 
Chronic  dry  bronchitis  of  dogs  is  likewise  benefited  by 
apomorphine. 

The  alkaloid  decomposes  in  crystal,  and  rapidly  in  solu- 
tion, becoming  toxic  and  of  a  green  hue.  Solutions  should 
be  freshly  prepared  and  are  said  to  be  preserved  by  the 
addition  of  a  few  drops  of  hydrochloric  acid. 

Class  2. — Stimulating  the  Brain. 

Belladonna  Folia.     Belladonna  Leaves.      (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Deadly  nightshade,  E.;  folia  S.  herba  bella- 
donnse,  feuilles  de  belladonne,  Fr.;  tollkraut,  toUkirschen 
blatter,  wolfkirschen- blatter,  G. 

Derivation,  —  The  leaves  of  Atropa  Belladonna  Linne 
(Nat.  ord.  solanacese).  Leaves  from  10  to  15  cm.  long,  from 
5  to  10  cm.  broad;  broadly  ovate,  equilaterally  narrowed 
into  a  petiole,  tapering  at  the  apex,  entire  on  the  margin, 
smooth,  thin ;  the  upper  surface  brownish-green,  the  lower 
surface  greyish-green;  both  surfaces  whitish  punctate; 
odor  slight ;  taste  bitterish,  disagreeable. 

Constituents. — Two  alkaloids ;  1,  atropine,  the  chief  one, 
representing  the  action  of  belladonna ;  and,  2,  hyoscyamine. 

Atropine  is  now  considered  to  be  an  artificial  product 
of  hyoscyamine,  and  therefore  tliH  latter  to  be  the  natur.l 


BELLADONNA  ROOT  353 

alkaloid.     Belladonna  leaves  contain  about  0.46  per  cent, 
atropine. 

Dose.—B..  &  C,  5  ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  D.,  gr.i.-v.  (.06-.3). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractitm  Belladonnce  Folioruvi  Alcoholicum. 
Alcoholic  Extract  of  Belladonna  Leaves.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  percolation  and  evaporation  to  pilular  consistence.    Used 
in  preparing  the  unguentum  belladonnae. 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  gr.x.-xx.  (.6-1.3);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.ii.-iv.  (.12-24.); 
D.,gr.i-i(.008-.03). 

Tinctura  Belladonnce  Folioruvi.    Tincture  of  Belladonna  Leaves. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Belladonna  leaves,  150;  diluted  alcohol  to  make  1,000.     Made  by 
maceration  and  percolation.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Dose.—D.,  TTiv.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

Unguentum  Belladonnce.     Belladonna  Ointment.     (XJ.*  S.  &  B.  P. ) 
Alcoholic  extract,  10 ;  diluted  alcohol,  5  ;  benzoinated  lard,  85. 
(U.S.  P.) 

Belladonna  Kadix.     Belladonna  Root. 

Synonym. — Bacine  de  Belladonne,  Fr.;  woliskirschen- 
wurzel,  toUkirschen-wurzel,  G. 

Derivation. — The  root  of  atropa  belladonna  Linne  (nat. 
ord.  solanacese).  In  cylindrical,  somewhat  tapering,  longi- 
tudinally wriukled  pieces,  10  to  25  mm.  or  more  in  thickness; 
externally  brownish-gray,  internally  whitish ;  fracture  nearly 
smooth  and  mealy,  not  radiating  or  showing  medullary  rays 
in  the  thicker  roots,  only  in  the  layer  near  the  bark;  nearly 
inodorous,  taste  sweetish,  afterwards  bitterish  and  strongly 
acrid. 

Constituents. — Same  as  leaves.  Contains  0.2  to  0.6  per 
cent,  atropine. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Belladonnce  Radicis  Fluidum. 
Fluid  Extract  of  Belladonna  Root.       (U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  percolation  with  alcohol  and  water,  and  evaporation. 
One  Cc.  of  the  extract  =  one  Gm.  of  belladonna  root.  The  most  reliable 
preparation, 


354  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Dose.— H.,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  C,  3  ".-iii.  (8.-12.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  mx.-xv. 
(.6-1.);  D.,  mi.-iii.  (.06-.2). 

Linimentum  Belladonnce.     Belladonna  Liniment.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Camphor,  50;  fluid  extract  of  belladonna  to  make  1,000.    (U.  S,  P.) 

Atropina.     Atropine.     C,,B.^^  N  O^ 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

An  alkaloid  obtained  from  belladonna.  As  it  occurs  in 
commerce,  it  is  always  accompanied  by  a  small  proportion 
of  hyoscyamine  extracted  along  with  it,  from  which  it  cannot 
readily  be  separated. 

Derivation. — Atropine  is  obtained  from  a  strong  tincture 
of  the  root.  Slaked  lime  is  added,  which  splits  up  atropine 
malate  and  precipitates  lime  malate.  The  excess  of  lime  is 
precipitated  by  sulphuric  acid,  and  coloring  matters  by 
potassium  carbonate,  which  also  sets  free  atropine.  The 
atropine  is  dissolved  in  chloroform,  recovered  on  evapora- 
tion, and  purified  by  digestion  with  warm  alcohol  and  char- 
coaL 

Properties. — White,  acicular  crystals,  or  a  more  or  less 
amorphous  white  powder;  without  odor,  having  a  bitter, 
acrid  taste,  and  gradually  assuming  a  yellowish  tint  on 
exposure  to  air.  Soluble  in  130  parts  of  water,  3  parts  of 
alcohol,  16  parts  of  ether,  4  parts  of  chloroform,  and  about 
60  parts  of  glycerin.  At  about  108^  C.  (226.4^  F.)  it  melts, 
forming  a  colorless  liquid.  At  about  140^  C.  (284°  F.)  it 
begins  to  give  off  white,  acrid  fumes,  and  when  ignited, 
it  is  consumed  without  leaving  a  residue.  It  has  a 
markedly  alkaline  reaction;  its  saturated  aqueous  solu- 
tion acquires  a  pink  color  upon  the  addition  of  a  drop  of 
phenolphtaleiu. 

Incompatihles.  —  Decomposed  by  sodium  or  potassium 
hydrate. 

Dose. — H.,  gr.ss.-iss.  (.03-.09) ;  average  dose,  gr.i.  (.06)  ; 
C,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.12);  Sh.  k  8w.,  gr.^-VW  (OOS-.OOS)  ;  D., 
g^-Tio-A  (.0005-.001). 


ATROPINE  SULPHATE  365 

ATROPiNiE  Sulphas.    Atropine  Sulphate.    (CnH23Nb3)2  HaSO^. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation.  —  Atropine  is  dissolved  in  sulphuric  acid 
and  treated  with  ether,  when  the  insoluble  sulphate  settles 
out. 

Properties.  —  A  white,  indistinctly  crystalline  powder, 
without  odor;  having  a  very  bitter,  nauseating  taste,  and 
permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble  in  0.4  parts  of  water,  6.2 
parts  of  alcohol,  2,270  parts  of  ether,  or  694  parts  of  chloro- 
form. At  187°  C.  (309°  F.)  the  salt  melts,  forming  a  brown- 
ish-yellow liquid.  When  ignited,  it  chars,  emits  acrid  vapor, 
and  is  completely  consumed.  The  salt  is  neutral  to  litmus 
paper. 

Dose.—n.,  gr.i.-iss.  (.06-.09) ;  C,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.  12) ;  Sh.  k 
Sw.,gr.^-3V  (.004-.005) ;  D.,  gr.-ri^^  (.0005-.002),  average 
dose,  gr.^  (.0006). 

ACTION  OP  BELLADONNA  AND  ATROPINE. 

External. — Belladonna  is  ordinarily  not  absorbed  from 
the  unbroken  skin,  but  when  applied  to  raw  surfaces  and 
mucous  membranes,  or,  to  a  less  extent,  when  rubbed  into 
the  skin  with  camphor  (linimentum  belladonnse),  chloroform, 
alcohol,  etc.,  it  depresses  the  sensory  nerve  endings  and 
produces  a  local  anodyne  action.  Thus  applied  it  also 
depresses  the  peripheral  motor  nerve  fibres,  and  is  some- 
times injected  into  spasmodically  contracted  muscles  for 
relief  of  spasm.  The  vessels  are  said  to  be  first  contracted 
and  then  dilated  by  the  local  action  of  the  drug,  and  the 
secretions  of  the  skin  are  diminished. 

Internal. — Digestive  Tract. — The  action  of  belladonna,  if 
any,  on  the  secretory  functions  of  the  stomach  and  bowels 
is  unknown.  Small  doses  of  the  drug  depress  the  peripheral 
terminations  of  the  intestinal  inhibitory  nerve  (splanchnic), 
so  that  peristalsis  is  increased  by  the  normal  stimuli.  It  is 
stated  that  both  minute  and  large  doses  apparently  lessen 
intestinal  peristalsis ;  the  former  by  primary  stimulation  of 


356  YEGETABLE  DRUGS 

the  splanchnic  nerve  endings,  the  latter  by  direct  depressant 
action  upon  the  unstriated  muscle  of  the  intestinal  wall. 

Circulation. — Belladonna  is  readily  absorbed  into  the 
blood,  but  has  no  particular  action  upon  this  fluid  within 
the  body.  Dilute  solutions  of  atropine  paralyze  and  stop 
corpuscular  movement  in  the;  blood  withdrawn  .from  the 
vessels.  The  characteristic  action  of  belladonna  upon  the 
circulation  consists  in  depression  of  the  peripheral  pneumo- 
gastric  fibres  in  the  heart,  so  that  the  frequency  of  its 
pulsations  is  increased.  There  is  also,  probably,  a  slight 
stimulation  of  the  cardiac  muscle,  or  its  contained  ganglia. 
Belladonna  is  therefore  a  heart  stimulant,  by  increa,sing 
the  number  of  its  beats  without  diminishing  their  force. 
Large  doses  sometimes  give  rise  to  primary  slowing  of  the 
pulse,  owing  to  stimulation  of  the  inhibitory  apparatus. 
Blood  pressure  is  exalted  synchronously  with  the  increased 
frequency  of  the  heart,  and  is  due  to  cardiac  stimulation 
and  also  to  stimulation  of  the  spinal  and  medullary  vaso- 
motor centres,  with  constriction  of  blood  vessels. 

In  poisoning,  vascular  tension  is  considerably  lowered 
because  of  paralysis  of  the  vasomotor  centres,  smooth 
muscles  (or  ganglia)  of  the  vessel  walls  (with  vascular 
dilation),  and  the  heart  muscle  itself. 

Nervous  System. — Cereh^um — Belladonna  is  classed  as  a^ 
delirifacient  by  some  authorities,  —notably  Wood.  .  It  stim- 
ulates the  brain  incoordinately,  and  large  doses  produce 
restlessness,  nervous  excitement  and  delirium  in  man,  and 
occasionally  delirium  in  the  lower  animals.  Stimulation  ia 
succeeded  by  exhaustion  and  some  depression,  with  stupor 
rather  than  coma. 

Spinal  Cord — Belladonna  appears  to  exert  a  double 
action  (stimulant  and  depressant)  upon  the  spinal  cord. 
The  spinal  vasomotor  and  respiratory  centres  are  stim- 
ulated. Large  doses  cause  complete  loss  of  motion  and 
reflex  action  in  the  frog,  lasting  for  several  days,  and 
followed  by  reflex  excitability  and  convulsions.  Poisoning 
in  mammals  is  exhibited  by  less  paralyzant  action  accom- 


ACTION   OF  BELLADONNA  AND   ATROPINE  357 

panied  by  more  convulsive  movements.  Various  explana- 
tions have  been  offered  to  reconcile  these  phenomena.  The 
prevalent  theory  is  that,  following  complete  paralysis  of  the 
spinal  cord,  the  motor  and  sensory  tracts  recover  before  the 
inhibitory  centres,  so  that  normal  stimuli  pass  through  the 
latter  unrestrained  and  result  in  convulsions. 

Nerves— The  action  of  belladonna  upon  the  nerve  end- 
ings is  extremely  important,  and  represents,  to  a  consider- 
able degree,  the  therapeutic  value  of  the  drug.  The 
peripheral  motor  nerve  terminations,  and,  to  a  less  extent, 
their  trunks,  are  depressed  and  paralyzed.  This  is  never 
so  complete,  however,  but  that  there  is  some  voluntary 
power  left  in  an  animal  fatally  poisoned.  Depression  and 
loss  of  function  of  the  afferent  nerves  come  on  more  slowly, 
and  exist  to  a  less  degree.  Belladonna,  then,  when  applied 
locally  or  given  internally,  is  an  anodyne,  but  is  far  inferior 
in  this  respect  to  opium;  and,  whereas  opium  acts  centrally, 
belladonna  acts  peripherally.  The  terminations  of  all  secre- 
tory nerves  are  also  depressed  and  paralyzed  by  belladonna, 
and  secretions  are  therefore  diminished. 

Secretions. — Dryness  of  the  mouth  is  one  of  the  first 
physiological  symptoms  following  the  administration  of 
belladonna.  This  is  due  to  paralysis  of  the  peripheral 
terminations  of  the  secretory  nerve  (chorda  tympani)  of  the 
submaxillary  gland,  and  of  the  secretory  nerve  endings  of 
the  other  salivary  and  mucous  glands  in  connection  with 
the  mouth.  Another  characteristic  effect  of  belladonna 
consists  in  the  production  of  dryness  of  the  skin,  which 
follows  the  action  of  the  drug  in  paralyzing  the  peripheral 
nervous  filaments  supplying  the  secretory  cells  of  the 
sudoriparous  glands.  In  the  same  manner  the  tracheal 
and  bronchial  secretions  are  diminished,  and  also  the 
secretion  of  milk  (anti-galactagogue  action),  by  depression 
of  the  terminations  of  the  secretory  nerves.  The  drug  does 
not  exert  any  decided  influence  upon  the  secretions  of  the 
digestive  tract,  as  before  stated.  The  amount  of  urine  is 
sometimes  increased  after  the  ingestion  of  small  doses  of 


358  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

belladonna,  but  is  considerably  lessened,  or  suppressed,  in 
poisoning  by  the  drug.  Experiments  upon  man  show  that 
the  urinary  solids  are  increased:  urea  and  uric  acid  to  a 
slight  extent ;  sulphates  and  phosphates  to  a  considerable 
degree. 

Muscles  and  their  Nerves. — The  involuntary  muscles  are 
not  affected  by  moderate  doses  of  belhidonna.  Their  motor 
nerve  terminations  are  depressed  by  full  medicinal  doses, 
and  the  muscles  themselves  are  depressed  and  paralyzed  by 
poisonous  doses.  The  motor  nerve  endings,  in  voluntary 
muscles,  are  partly  paralyzed  by  toxic  doses  of  belladonna. 
In  accordance  with  the  foregoing,  intestinal  peristalsis  is 
increased  by  moderate  doses  of  the  drug,  by  depression 
of  the  inhibitory  nerve  terminations  in  the  smooth  muscle 
of  the  intestinal  walls;  bnt  is  diminished  by  the  action 
of  large  doses,  by  paralyzing  the  involuntary  muscle. 
Again:  the  pneumogastric  terminations  are  depressed  in 
the  heart  by  moderate  doses,  while  the  heart  muscle  is 
paralyzed  by  large  quantities  of  belladonna. 

A  like  depressing  influence  is  believed  to  be  exerted 
upon  the  efferent  nerve  endings  of  the  ud striped  muscles  of 
the  bladder,  urethra,  uterus  and  vagina,  as  well  as  upon  the 
muscles  of  these  organs.  Belladonna  acts  medicinally  as 
an  antispasmodic  in  relation  to  the  muscles. 

Respiration. — Small  doses  of  atropine  do  not  affect  the 
respiration.  Large  therapeutic  doses  make  the  respiratory 
movements  quicker  and  deeper,  by  stimulation  of  the 
medullary  and  spinal  respiratory  centres.  Fatal  doses 
produce  respiratory  failure  and  asphyxia,  owing  to  paralysis 
of  the  respiratory  centre  and  the  peripheral  vagus  filaments 
concerned  with  the  respiratory  movements.  Belladonna 
also  paralyzes  the  peripheral  fibres  of  the  pneumogastric 
nerve  in  the  bronchial  tubes  and  acts  therapeutically  as 
follows:  1.  As  a  respiratory  stimulant;  the  drug  is  gene- 
rally inferior  to  strychnine  in  this  respect,  but  acts  effi- 
ciently in  certain  conditions,  as  in  poisoning  by  opium, 
aconite,   physostigma,   etc.      2.    As   an  antispasmodic,   by 


ACTION  OF  BELLADONNA  AND  ATROPINE        359 

depressing  the  efferent  vagus  endings  in  the  bronchial 
tubes  and  relaxing  spasm  of  the  smooth  muscle  of  their 
walls,  3.  As  a  sedative,  by  depressing  the  afferent  vagus 
fibres  and  diminishing  the  irritation  produced  by  secre- 
tion, so  that  cough  is  allayed.  4  As  an  agent  lessening 
secretion. 

Temperature. — Moderate  doses  of  belladonna  cause  a 
rise  of  temperature,  while  fatal  doses  lessen  bodily  heat. 
The  first  phenomenon  is  produced  by  stimulation  of  the 
spinal  thermogenic  centres,  while  the  latter  effect  follows 
the  vasomotor  paralysis  which  occurs  after  lethal  doses. 

An  elevation  of  2-5.4^  F.  has  been  noted  in  dogs  after 
full  doses  of  atropine,  while  a  greater  fall  of  temperature 
has  been  observed  in  the  same  animal  in  fatal  poisoning. 
Elevation  of  temperature  is  accompanied  by  increased  heat 
loss,  caused  by  radiation  from  the  dilated  cutaneous  vessels. 
This  latter  condition  is  evidenced  by  a  scarlatina-like  erup- 
tion in  man. 

Eye. — The  action  of  belladonna  upon  the  eye  affords 
another  illustration  of  the  depressing  action  of  the  drug 
upon  the  nerve  terminations.  The  oculomotor  nerve  end- 
ings are  paralyzed  by  belladonna,  and  therefore  dilation  of 
the  pupil  ensues.  The  mydriatic  action  is  exhibited, 
whether  the  drug  be  given  by  the  mouth  or  dropped 
directly  into  the  eye.  In  the  former  case,  the  drug  does 
not  act  through  the  nervous  system,  but  locally  upon  the 
peripheral  filaments  of  the  third  nerve  through  the  medium 
of  the  blood.  The  muscular  fibres  of  the  iris  are  unaffected 
by  belladonna.  The  terminations  of  the  sympathetic  and 
and  the  trigeminus  may  be  stimulated,  which  would  also 
produce  dilation  of  the  pupil.  These  latter  actions  are  not 
definitely  determined,  while  it  is  known  that  the  dominant 
effect  consists  in  depression  of  the  oculomotor  nerve  end- 
ings, as  before  stated.  Paralysis  of  accommodation  follows 
paralysis  of  the  terminations  of  the  third  nerve  in  the 
ciliary  muscle,  and  therefore  vision  is  disturbed.  Intra- 
ocular tension  is  increased  by  large  and  continuous  dosage 


360  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

of  belladonna,  and  an  artificial  glaucoma  may  be  thus 
produced. 

Elimination. — Belladonna  is  probably  eliminated  en- 
tirely by  the  kidneys. 

Summary. — It  will  be  observed  that  belladonna,  gener- 
ally speaking,  first  stimulates  and  then  depresses  the  nerve 
centres,  while  it  chiefly  paralyzes  the  motor  nerve  termiua- 
tious,  including  the  inhibitory  (vagus  and  splanchnic),  the 
secretory  (chorda  tympani,  etc.),  and,  to  a  less  extent,  the 
sensory  nerves.  Secondaiy  depression  of  the  cerebrum  is 
not  so  profound  as  that  of  the  great  medullary  centres, 
especially  the  respiratory  centre,  and  there  is  sometimes  a 
slight  and  brief  stimulation  of  the  motor  nerves  of  the 
smooth  muscles,  viz.,  vagus,  splanchnic,  and  possibly  vaso- 
motor nerves. 

Full  medicinal  doses  depress  the  peripheral  filaments 
of  the  inhibitory  and  secretory  nerves,  and  those  of  the 
unstriped  muscles,  lessen  the  functional  activity  of  the 
voluntary  motor  system,  and,  to  a  less  degree,  that  of  the 
afferent  nerves.  The  pulse  becomes  quickened  because  of 
paralysis  of  the  peripheral  vagus  endings  and  stimulation  of 
the  heart  or  its  ganglia;  the  blood  tension  is  aiigmented 
because  of  the  increased  cardiac  action  and  stimulation  of 
the  vasomotor  centres;  and  the  respiration  is  accelerated 
because  of  excitation  of  the  respiratory  centres.  fThe 
temperature  is  elevated  owing  to  the  circulatory  exaltation 
and  stimulation  of  the  heat-producing  centres.  Slight 
delirium  may  be  present  from  the  exciting  action  of  the 
drug  upon  the  cerebral  motor  centres. 

The  spinal  cord  is  unaffected  by  therapeutic  doses. 
Locally  applied,  belladonna  is  a  direct  paralyzant  to  nerves, 
muscles,  vessels  and  cells. 

PHYSIOLOGICAL  BELATIONS  OF  BELLADONNA  TO  OTHER  DRUGS. 

A  medicinal  dose  of  atropine  stimulates,  while  morphine 
depresses,  the  brain,  respiratory  functions,  and  intestinal 
peristalsis.     This  antagonism  ceases  when  poisonous  doses 


PHYSIOLOGICAL   RELATIONS   OF  BELLADONNA  361 

of  the  two  drugs  are  combined,  and  therefore  atropine 
should  hd  given  with  caution  in  the  treatment  of  opium 
narcosis,  so  as  not  to  aggravate  the  already  existing  central 
nervous  depression,  particularly  of  the  respiration.  Mor- 
phine relieves  pain,  causes  sweating,  and  contracts  the 
pupil  centrally.  Atropine  dilates  the  pupil,  produces  dry- 
ness of  the  skin,  and  depresses  the  functions  of  sensory 
nerves  through  its  peripheral  action.  Atropine  antagonizes 
physostigma  in  so  far  as  the  latter  stimulates  the  peripheral 
oculomotor  nerve  fibres,  the  vagi,  diminishes  blood  pres- 
sure, depresses  the  respiratory  centres,  and  stimulates  the 
unstriated  muscle  of  the  intestines,  and  the  secretions  of 
the  stomach,  bowels  and  bronchial  tubes. 

Atropine  is  antagonistic — in  part — to  pilocarpine,, which 
stimulates  secretory  nerve  terminations  in  the  sweat  and 
salivary  glands,  the  peripheral  oculomotor  filaments,  and 
the  nerve  endings  in  the  involuntary  muscle  of  the  heart, 
stomach,  intestines  and  uterus.  Atropine  counteracts  the 
influence  of  aconite  and  muscarin  (the  poison  of  fungi)  upon 
the  heart,  and  the  action  of  the  latter  principle  in  producing 
spasm  of  the  pulmonary  vessels. 

Toxicology. — Toxic  doses  of  belladonna  cause  in  animals 
dryness  of  the  mouth,  increased  frequency  of  the  pulse  and 
respiration,  elevation  of  temperature,  dilation  of  the  pupil 
and  partial  blindness,  restlessness,  nervousness,  delirium, 
twitching  of  the  muscles  (occasionally  erythema),  and  fre- 
quent micturition.  These  symptoms  are  succeeded,  in 
fatal  poisoning,  by  fall  of  temperature,  retention  of  urine, 
muscular  weakness,  staggering  gait,  partial  anaesthesia, 
convulsions  and  paralysis  (one  preponderating  over  the 
other),  weak,  slow,  irregular  respiration,  feeble,  rapid  pulse, 
paralysis  of  the  sphincters,  stupor  and  death.  Death  occurs 
mainly  from  asphyxia,  but  is  due  in  part  to  cardiac  failure. 
The  physiological  test  consists  in  placing  a  drop  of  the 
urine  (secreted  by  the  poisoned  animal)  into  the  eye  of  a 
healthy  animal,  when  mydriasis  should  follow  if  the  case  be 
one  of  belladonna  poisoning.     Three-quarters  of  a  grain  of 


362  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

atropine  under  the  skin  lias  proved  fatal  to  dogs.  Two 
grains  of  atropine  produce  mild  toxic  symptoms  in  the 
horse.  Small  dogs  are  slightly  poisoned  by  gr.^  of  atro- 
pine ;  medium  sized  dogs  by  gr.^,  given  hypodermatically. 
Cattle  are  as  susceptible  as  horses,  although  herbivora  are 
not  so  easily  influenced  as  carnivora.  The  pulse  in  dogs  is 
greatly  accelerated,  sometimes  as  high  as  400,  v/hile  the 
pulse  rate  of  the  horse  is  "not  generally  more  than  doubled. 
Rodents,  as  guinea  pigs  and  rabbits,  and  pigeons,  are  parti- 
cularly insusceptible  to  belladonna,  in  regard  to  its  effect 
upon  the  pupil,  circulation,  etc. 

The  treatment  of  poisoning  includes  the  use  of  the 
stomach  pump,  emetics,  cardiac  stimulants,  and  pilocarpine 
under  the  skin.  Also  external  heat,  general  faradism  and 
artificial  respiration. 

Post  Mortem  Appearances.  —  These  are  not  generally 
characteristic,  except  of  asphyxia.  The  blood  is  dark  and 
poorly  coaguable.  There  is  congestion  of  the  lungs,  general 
passive  hypersemia,  and  sometimes  ecchymoses  in  the  brain, 
cord,  and  their  membranes.  Congestion  of  the  retina  is  said, 
however,  to  be  pathognomonic  of  belladonna  poisoning. 

Administration.— HhQ  fluid  extract  of  belladonna  root  is 
the  official  preparation  more  commonly  used  for  horses. 
The  alcoholic  extract  of  the  leaves  is  given  in  pill  or  suppo- 
sitory to  dogs,  and  in  electuary  to  horses.  Atropine  sul- 
phate is  employed  under  the  skin  when  a  rapid  effect  is 
desired. 

Uses  External. — Local  application  of  belladonna  is  more 
effective  when  combined  with  internal  medication  of  the 
same  drug.  Belladonna  is  the  best  remedy  for  mammitis, 
applied  by  massage  in  the  form  of  liniment,  and  given  by 
the  mouth.  It  relaxes  spasm,  contracts  the  blood  vessels, 
and  lessens  inflammation  and  congestion  ;  paralyzes  the 
secretory  nerves  and  so  diminishes  the  amount  of  milk, 
vascular  tension,  pain  and  glandular  activity.  In  fissure  of 
the  rectum,  and  in  haemorrhoids,  belladonna  (with  opium) 
in  ointment  or  suppository,  allays  spasm  and  pain.     Lini- 


USES  OF  BELLADONNA  363 

ment  of  belladonna  is  useful  in  rheumatic  or  neuralgic  pain, 
and  rubbed  upon  the  throat,  in  cases  of  pharyngitis  and 
laryngitis,  affords  a  serviceable  application,  when  combined 
with  the  internal  administration  of  the  drug. 

Uses  in  Connection  With  the  Eye. — In  examination  of  the 
fundus  of  the  eye,  the  media,  or  lens,  for  cataract,  the  pupil 
may  be  dilated  to  advantage  with  a  weak  solutioh  (gr.^-  §  i.) 
of  atropine  sulphate.  A  drop  will  suffice,  and  no  trace  of 
its  effect  will  remain  after  the  second  day.  A  strong  solution 
(gr.iv.-  §  i.)  is  essential  to  completely  paralyze  the  iris  and 
ciliary  muscle.  In  the  normal  animal,  accommodation  is 
paralyzed  and  vision  disturbed  for  8  or  12  days  after  the 
use  of  this  solution.  Atropine  is  particularly  useful  in 
keratitis  and  iritis.  In  the  former  disease,  photophobia  and 
blepharospasm  are  diminished  by  the  paralyzing  action  of 
atropine  upon  the  trigeminus,  and  pain,  congestion  and 
inflammation  are  diminished  by  contraction  of  the  peri- 
pheral blood  vessels.  In  central  perforating  ulcer  of  the 
cornea,  with  protrusion  of  the  iris,  atropine,  by  dilating 
the  pupil,  draws  the  iris  away  and  prevents  its  permanent 
adhesion  (anterior  synechia)  to  the  cornea,  while  the  per- 
foration is  becoming  filled  with  lymph  and  the  anterior 
chamber  is  being  restored.  Strong  solutions  of  atropine 
instilled  at  frequent  intervals,  are  useful  in  iritis  by  (1) 
paralyzing  and  securing  rest  of  the  iris  and  ciliary  muscles; 
(2)  in  lessening  local  blood  supply,  congestion  and  inflam- 
mation, and  in  preventing  adhesions  of  the  posterior  sur- 
faces of  the  iris  to  the  anterior  capsule  of  the  lens  (posterior 
synechise),  which  both  limits  the  normal  variation  in  the 
pupillary  diameter  and  interferes  with  the  nutrition  of  the 
lens,  and  so  predispose  to  cataract.  Atropine  is  contra- 
indicated  in  glaucoma. 

Uses  Internal. — The  general  indications  follow  directly 
from  our  knowledge  of  the  physiological  action  of  the  drug. 
They  are  as  follows : — 1.  To  stimulate  the  respiration  and 
circulation.  2.  To  diminish  secretion.  3.  To  relieve  spasm 
and  pain. 


.364:  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

1.  Acute  diseases,  as  pneumonia,  bronchitis,  influenza, 
cerebro-spinal  meningitis,  etc.,  are  frequently  treated  at  the 
outset  with  belladonna,  with  the  intent  of  cutting  short  the 
inflammatory  process  by  producing  general  vascular  con- 
traction. There  does  not  seem  to  be  sufficient  physiological 
or  clinical  evidence  to  warrant  this  practice  (except  in  pha- 
ryngitis and  laryngitis),  and  there  are  other  drugs  (ergot) 
which  accomplish  the  purpose,  were  it  desirable,  more  effi- 
ciently. In  the  second  stage  of  acute  diseases,  as  pneu- 
monia, belladonna  is  a  valuable  agent  in  combination  with 
strychnine,  to  stimulate  respiration,  prevent  effusion  and 
vasomotor  and  cardiac  depression.  Belladonna  is  of  great 
service  also  as  a  respiratory,  cardiac  and  vasomotor  stimu- 
lant in  poisoning  by  various  drugs,  including  opium,  chloro- 
form, ether,  aconite,  prussic  acid,  physostigma  and  pilocar- 
pine. In  surgical  shock,  with  low  temperature,  owing  to 
vasomotor  paralysis  and  vascular  dilatation,  atropine  is  a 
most  potent  remedy,  combined  with  digitalis. 

2.  Belladonna  is  employed  therapeutically  to  diminish 
excessive  sweating  and  salivation,  mercurial  or  otherwise. 
It  is  recommended  in  serous,  or  watery  diarrhoea.  (Edema 
of  the  lungs  is  combated  most  successfully  with  atropine 
(combined  with  strychnine)  subcutaneously.  In  the  second 
stage  of  acute  respiratory  diseases,  as  bronchitis,  influenza, 
canine  distemper,  and  pneumonia,  belladonna  diminishes 
secretion,  irritability  and  cough,  and  stimulates  the  heart 
and  respiration.  It  may  be  associated  with  opium  to  in- 
crease the  sedative  effect. 

3.  Belladonna  does  not  have  much  influence  over  spasm 
of  the  voluntary  muscles,  unless  injected  (atropine)  into  their 
substance.  Kheumatic  lameness,  and  cramps  and  spasm 
due  to  injury  of  nerves,  may  be  treated  in  this  manner. 
Spasm  of  involuntary  muscle  is,  however,  more  easily  over- 
come, and  this  action  is  of  exceeding  therapeutic  importance. 
Intestinal  spasmodic  colic  of  horses  succumbs  most  readily 
when  atropine  is  given  with  morphine  under  the  skin.  In 
peritonitis  and  enteritis,  full  and  repeated  doses  of  atropine, 


USES   OF  BELLADONNA  365 

with  morphine,  assist  in  paralyzing  the  smooth  muscular 
fibres  of  the  intestines,  and  in  quieting  peristaltic  move- 
ment. 

Cough,  stridulus  breathing,  and  spasm,  associated  with 
acute  pharyngitis  and  laryngitis,  are  influenced  favorably  by 
belladonna,  in  the  first  stage.  The  drug  acts  locally  to 
paralyze  the  ends  of  the  motor  nerves  in  the  throat,  relieves 
spasm,  and  also  contracts  the  peripheral  vessels  and  over- 
comes congestion  and  inflammation.  It  may  be  given  to 
horses  in  electuary,  and  also  applied  in  liniment  or  oint- 
ment externally.  The  following  prescription  is  suitable  for 
horses  suffering  from  pharyngitis  or  laryngitis. 

Extract,  belladonnae  rad.  fl §  i. 

Pulv.  potassii  chloratis f  ii. 

Pulv.  GlycyrrhizaB ^  v. 

Syrupi  Fusci Q.  S. 

M.  et  f .  elect uarium. 

Sig.    Give  i  ounce  every  two  hours.     (Furnish  |  ounce 
for  sample  dose.) 

In  bronchitis  and  asthma,  belladonna  also  allays  spasm 
and  lessens  secretion,  irritation  and  cough.  Other  spasmo- 
dic conditions  benefited  by  belladonna  are,  "thumps,"  lead 
colic,  spasm  of  the  rectum  owing  to  fissure  or  other  causes, 
and  incontinence  of  urine  due  to  spasm  of  the  neck  of  the 
bladder.  Palpitation  of  the  heart  is  relieved  by  the  sedative 
action  of  the  mydriatic  upon  the  unstriated  cardiac  muscle. 
Tetanus  is  favorably  influenced  by  extract  of  belladonna 
given  in  electuary.  In  this  section  may  be  included  the 
effect  of  small  doses  of  belladonna  in  paralyzing  the  inhi- 
bitory (splanchnic)  nerve  terminations  in  the  bowels,  and 
thus  assisting  the  action  of  peristaltic  stimulants,  as  aloes 
and  strychnine.  Pills  containing  aloin  (gr.J),  extractum 
belladonnae  alcoholicum  foliorum  (gr.|),  and  extractum  cas- 
carsB  sagradae  (gr.J),  form  a  useful  laxative  combination  in 
chronic  constipation  of  dogs. 


366  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Hyoscyamus.     Hyoscyamiis.     (IT.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Hyoscyami  folia,  B.  P.;  henbane,  herba 
hyoscyami,  E. ;  feuilles  de  jusquiame  noire,  Fr. ;  bilsen- 
krant,  G. 

The  leaves  and  flowering  tops  of  Hyoscyamus  niger 
Linne  (nat.  ord.  solanaceae),  collected  from  plants  of  the 
second  year's  growth. 

Habitat. — Indigenous  to  England,  the  Continent,  and 
Asia,  and  naturalized  in  the  northern  part  of  the  United 
States. 

Description. — Leaves  ovate,  or  ovate-oblong,  up  to  25 
cm.  long  and  10  cm.  broad ;  sinuate-toothed ;  the  teeth  large, 
oblong  or  triangular,  grayish-green,  and,  particularly  on  the 
lower  surface,  glandular-hairy ;  midrib  prominent;  flowers 
nearly  sessile,  with  an  urn-shaped,  five- toothed  calyx,  and  a 
light  yellow,  purple-veined  corolla;  odor  heavy,  narcotic; 
taste  bitter  and  somewhat  acrid. 

Ccmstituents. — Two  alkaloids  :  hyoscyamine  C17H23N  O3, 
and  hyoscine.  The  first  resembles  atropine  in  composition 
and  action.  Impure,  amorphous,  commercial  hyoscyamine 
is  a  dark-brown  fluid  and  contains  as  its  active  principle 
mainly  hyoscine. 

Incompatibility. — Incompatible  with  caustic  alkalies  and 
vegetable  acids,  lead  acetate  and  silver  nitrate.  Hyoscyamus 
may  be  given  in  pill  with  the  two  latter  mineral  salts. 

Dose.—H.  &  C,  5ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  D.,  gr.v.-xv.  (.3-1.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Hyoscyami.     Extract  of  Hyoscyamus. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  diluted  alcohol,  and 
evaporation  to  pilular  consistency. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  gr.xx.-  3  i.  (1.3-4.) ;  D.,  gr.ss.-ii.  (.03-.12). 

Extractum  Hyoscyami  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Hyoscyamus. 

(U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration,  percolation  with  alcohol  and  water,  and 
evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  hyoscyamus. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  |8s.  i.  (15.-30  );  D.,  nv.-xv.  (.3-1.). 


HYOSCYAMINE   SULPHATE  367 

Tinctura  Hyoscyami.     Tincture  of  Hyoscyamus.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Hyoscyamus,  150  ;  diluted  alcohol  to  make  1,000.     Made  by  mace- 
ration and  percolation.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Dose.— D.,  3i.-iv.  (4.-15.). 

The  preparations  of  hyoscyamus  are  of  rather  uncertain  strength. 
The  dose  is  generally  two  to  four  times  that  of  similar  belladonna  pre- 
parations. 

Succus  Hyoscyami.    Juice  of  Hyoscyamus.     (B.  P.) 
Dose. — Same  as  tincture. 


Hyoscyamin^  Sulphas.     Hyoscy amine  Sulphate. 
(C,H,3  N  O3).  H,S  O, 

The  neutral  sulphate  of  an  alkaloid  obtained  from  hyo- 
scyamus. 

Derivation. — Hyoscyamine  is  derived  from  -hyoscyamus 
seed.  The  latter  are  treated  with  ether  to  extract  fat,  and 
then  distilled  with  alcohol  and  sulphuric  acid.  The  liquid 
residue  is  neutralized  with  caustic  soda  and  precipitated 
with  tannic  acid.  The  precipitate  is  mixed  with  lime  and 
extracted  with  alcohol.  The  resulting  alcoholic  solution  is 
first  treated  with  sulphuric  acid,  then  with  caustic  soda,  and 
finally  with  ether,  which  dissolves  the  alkaloid.  The  latter 
is  recovered  by  distillation. 

Properties. — White,  indistinct  crystals,  or  a  white  pow- 
der, without  odor,  and  having  a  bitter,  acrid  taste.  Deli- 
quescent in  damp  air.  Soluble  in  0.5  part  of  water,  and 
in  2.5  parts  of  alcohol;  very  slightly  soluble  in  ether  or 
chloroform. 

Dose.—B..,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.12);  D.,  gr.^-^  (.001-.002). 

Hyoscyamine  Hydrobromas.     Hyoscyamine  Hydrobromate. 
C,,H,3N  O3H  Br.     (U.  S.  P.) 

The  hydrobromate  of  an  alkaloid  obtained  from  hyo- 
scyamus. 

Properties.  —  A  yellowish-white,  amorphous,  resin-like 
mass,  or  prismatic  crystals,  having,  particularly  when  damp. 


368  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

a  tobacco-like  odor,  and  an  acrid,  nauseous  and  bitter  taste. 
Deliquescent  on  exposure  to  the  air.  Soluble  in  about  0.3 
part  of  water,  2  parts  of  alcohol,  3,000  parts  of  ether,  or  250 
parts  of  chloroform. 

Dose.—!!.,  gr.i.-ii.  {.06-.12);  D.,  gr.^-^V  (.00i-.002). 

Hyoscin^  Hydrobromas.     Hyoscine  Hydrobromate. 
CnH,,N  0,H  Br.      (U.  S.  P.  &  B.  P.) 

The  hydrobromate  of  an  alkaloid  obtained  from  hyo- 
scyamus. 

Properties. — Colorless,  transpaient,  rhombic  crystals; 
odorless  and  having  an  acrid,  slightly  bitter  taste.  Perma- 
nent in  the  air.  Soluble  in  1.9  parts  of  water,  and  in  13 
parts  of  alcohol ;  very  slightly  soluble  in  ether  or  chloro- 
form. 

Z>os6.-H.,gr.i-i  (.001-015);  D.,gr.^.^  (.0004-.0006). 

Action  Internal. — The  action  of  hyoscyamus  is  a  resul- 
tant of  that  of  its  two  alkaloids,  hyoscine  and  hyoscyamine. 
The  latter  is  practically  atropine,  except  that  its  mydriatic 
action  is  shorter.  Hyoscine,  in  poisonous  doses,  is  a  power- 
ful depressant  to  the  cerebrum,  respiratory  centre,  spinal 
reflex  centres,  and  motor  tract.  It  differs  from  atropine  in 
being  a  cerebral  sedative,  and  in  its  greater  paralyzant 
action  upon  the  spinal  cord.  The  tetanic  stage  succeeding 
spinal  paralysis,  observed  in  atropine  poisoning,  does  not 
ensue  with  hyoscine.  The  latter  alkaloid  slightly  depresses 
and  slows  the  heart,  and  does  not  paralyze  the  vagus  termi- 
nations, nor  depress  the  motor  and  sensory  nerves  or 
muscles.  The  circulation  is  but  slightly  influenced,  and 
vasomotor  depression  only  occurs  in  the  latter  stage  of 
lethal  poisoning.  Death  occurs  from  paralysis  of  the  respi- 
ratory centres.  Poisoning  in  animals  is  exhibited  by  loss  of 
muscular  power,  slowing  and  failure  of  respiration,  dryness 
of  the  mouth,  stupor  and  asphyxia.  The  pulse  may  be 
infrequent,  the  pupils  are  dilated  and  the  skin  is  moist, 
rather  than  dry.       Delirium    and   convulsions   sometimes 


INDIAN   CANNABIS  369 

occur  in  man.  The  effect  of  the  combined  action  of  hyoscy- 
amiue  and  hjoscine  in  hjoscyamus  is  shown  when  we  com- 
pare the  drug'with  belladonna.  Hjoscyamus  is  more  of  a 
cerebral  sedative  and  hypnotic,  and  less  of  a  heart  and 
respiratory  stimulant.  It  is  said  to  possess  more  power  in 
overcoming  spasm,  and  griping  of  cathartics,  and  in  aiding 
intestinal  movement.  Hyoscyamus  is  also  thought  to  exert 
a  more  pronounced  antispasmodic  action  than  belladonna 
upon  the  smooth  muscles  of  the  bladder  and  urethra. 

Uses. — Hyoscyamus  is  generally  applicable  in  the  same 
disorders  for  which  belladonna  is  indicatecL  In  relieving 
some  sorts  of  spasm,  hyoscyamus  is  more  efficient  than 
belladonna,  as  in  spasmodic  colic,  spasm  of  the  bladder,  and 
griping  caused  by  cathartics.  Tetanus,  chorea,  and  epilep- 
tic convulsions  in  dogs,  are  benefited  by  henbane,  but  the 
drug  does  not  possess  a  curative  action.  Hyoscy amine  may 
be  combined  to  advantage  with  strychnine,  subcutaneously, 
in  impaction  of  the  bowels  in  horses.  The  former  drug 
depresses  the  inhibitory  nerve  endings  (splanchnic),  and 
assists  the  stimulant  action  of  strychnine  upon  the  intestinal 
muscle.  Repeated  small  doses  of  oil  will  facilitate  peristal- 
sis in  this  condition.  Hyoscine  hydrobromate  is  indicated 
in  spasmodic  affections  and  in  nervous  and  sexual  excite- 
ment. It  is  a  powerful  drug  and  should  be  employed  at  the 
outset  in  small  doses.  To  avoid  contamination  with  hyo- 
scyamine  is  difficult,  and  the  preparation  of  Merck  is  to  be 
recommended.  Hyoscine  has  not  been  employed  to  any 
extent  in  veterinary  practice.  It  is  used  in  human  medicine 
as  a  hypnotic  and  sedative  in  mania  and  delirium  of  the 
insane.     It  causes  no  unpleasant  after-effects. 

Cannabis  Indica.     Indian  Cannabis.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

The  flowering  tops  of  the  female  plant  of  the  Cannabis 
sativa  Linne  (nat.  ord.  urticacese),  grown  in  the  East  Indies. 

Synonym. — Indian  hemp,  E.;  chanvre  indien,  Fr.;  indi- 
scher  hanf,  G.;  herba  cannabis  indicse,  P.  G. 


370  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Haschisch  is  a  confection  of  the  drug.  Arabian  habi- 
tues of  this  preparation  are  frequently  impelled  by  its 
influence  to  deeds  of  violence.  They  are  called  *'hascha- 
schins";  hence  the  English,  assassins.  Gunjab,  or  ganga,  is 
the  dried  plant  used  in  India  for  smoking.  Churrus  is  the 
resin  and  epidermis  scraped  off  the  leaves.  Bhang  consists 
of  the  young  leaves,  flowering  and  fruiting  tops  and  resin 
resulting  from  the  first  season's  growth. 

Habitat. — The  official  cannabis  is  indigenous  to  Asia, 
but  the  common  hemp  plant  (Cannabis  sativa)  grows  in 
America  and  many  other  parts  of  the  world. 

Description.  —  Branching,  compressed,  brittle,  about  5 
cm.  or  more  long,  with  a  few  digitate  leaves,  having  linear- 
lanceolate  leaflets,  and  numerous,  sheathing,  pointed  bracts, 
each  containing  two  small  pistillate  flowers,  sometimes  with 
the  nearly  ripe  fruit ;  the  whole  more  or  less  agglutinated 
with  a  resinous  exudation.  It  has  a  brownish-green  color, 
a  peculiar  narcotic  odor,  and  a  slightly  acrid  taste. 

Incompatibility. — Water  precipitates  the  active  resinous 
principles.  Lemon  juice  and  other  vegetable  acids  are  the 
most  efficient  antidotes. 

Constituents. — Resins,  including :  (1)  cannabin  and  (2) 
cannabinon ;  the  first  is  stated  to  be  very  active ;  (3)  teta- 
nocaunabine  (in  which  is  contained  a  substance,  choline, 
CgHisN  Oj),  and,  with  alkalies,  forms  (4)  cannabine.  None 
of  these  substances  is  a  practical  substitute  for  the  crude 
drug. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Cannabis  Indicce.     Extract  of  Indian  Cannabis. 

(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  macjeration  and  percolation  with  alcohol,  and  by  evapora- 
tion to  a  pilular  consistence. 

Dose.— H.,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  D.,  gr.i^-i.  (.015-.06). 

Uxtractum  Cannabis  Indicce  Fluidum. 
Fluid  Extract  of  Indian  Cannabis.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation.    The  alcohol  is  distilled  off 
from  the  last  part  of  the  percolate,  and  the  residue  is  dissolved  in  the 


INDIAN   CANNABIS  371 

first  part  (700  Cc),  and  enough  alcohol  is  added  to  make  1  Cc.  of  the 
fluid  extract  equal  1  gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 

Dose.— H.,   3iv.-vi.  (16.-24.);  D.,  mii.-x.  (.13-.6). 

Administration. — The  extract  is  given  in  ball,  pill,  electuary  or 
suppository ;  or  the  fluid  preparations  may  be  used. 

Tinctura  Cannabis  Indicce.     Tincture  of  Indian  Cannabis. 
(U.S.  &B.  P.) 

Indian  cannabis,  150;  alcohol  to  make  1,000  Cc.    Made  by  macera- 
tion  and  percolation.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Dose.— D.,  TTixx.-xxx.  (1.3-2,). 

Action  External — Cannabis  indica  exerts  a  considerable 
irritant  action  when  applied  to  mucous  membranes.  This 
is  followed  bj  local  anaesthesia. 

Action  Internal. — Indian  hemp  is  a  distinct  depressant 
to  the  functions  of  the  brain  and  cord  in  poisonous  doses, 
although  therapeutically  stimulating  these  organs  in  small 
quantities,  and  producing  in  man  a  kind  of  intoxication  and 
mild  delirium.  The  reflex  activity  of  the  spinal  cord  is 
primarily  increased,  but  this  is  succeeded  by  diminution  of 
reflex  movement,  and,  after  large  doses,  by  anaesthesia  and 
loss  of  voluntary  motion.  The  sensory  tract  (centres  and 
nerves)  is  depressed  by  considerable  therapeutic  doses. 
Our  knowledge  of  the  detailed  physiological  action  of  the 
drug  is  imperfect.  The  action  of  cannabis  comes  on  slowly 
and  continues  for  a  long  time.  A  horse  receiving,  under  the 
direction  of  the  writer,  at  the  Harvard  Veterinary  Hospital, 
J  ounce  of  the  solid  extract,  became  drowsy.  Sleep  after  a 
few  hours  deepened  into  stupor,  and  stupor  into  coma. 
The  respiration  became  slow,  the  pulse  slightly  accelerated, 
and  the  animal  so  anaesthetic  that  amputation  of  the  penis 
was  done  on  the  following  day  without  producing  the  slight- 
est pain  or  struggling.  The  animal  had  to  be  supported  in 
slings,  and  only  recovered  after  three  days.  Frequently 
neither  constipation,  anorexia,  or  other  deleterious  after- 
effects follow  the  action  of  this  drug. 

In  the  human  being,  cannabis  induces  very  peculiar 
mental    phenomena,    including  hallucinations,  a    sense   of 


372  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

double  consciousness,  and  great  prolongation  of  time,  so 
that  minutes  are  drawn  out  into  hours,  and  hours  into  days. 
Sometimes  sexual  excitement,  exaltation,  and  hilariousness 
are  exhibited;  at  other  times  a  dreadful  premonition  of  im- 
pending death  seizes  the  human  subject.  The  drug  is  not 
fatal,  except  in  colossal  doses,  but  the  effects  may  appear 
alarming.  Intrajugular  injection  into  a  small  dog,  of  five 
drachms  of  the  fluid  extract  (10  minims  of  which  proved 
active  in  man)  only  caused  death  after  several  hours 
(Hare).  Preparations  of  Indian  hemp  vary  greatly  in 
strength,  many  being  entirely  inert,  and  this  fact  constitutes 
one  of  the  principal  objections  to  its  use.  The  practitioner 
is  recommended  to  experiment  until  he  secures  a  reliable 
preparation,  and  use  no  other  thereafter. 

Uses. — Cannabis  is  indicated  for  the  relief  of:  1,  pain; 
2,  spasm ;  3,  nervous  irritability.  It  is  not  comparable  to 
morphine  as  an  analgesic,  on  account  of  the  uncertainty  and 
slowness  of  its  action,  and  because  anaesthesia  is  only  pro- 
duced by  an  unwarrantably  large  dose.  It  is  only  superior 
to  opium  in  not  causing  constipation,  anorexia  and  indiges- 
tion, and  is  therefore  sometimes  given  in  colic  to  horses, 
for  the  relief  of  pain  and  spasm.  The  permanency  of  the 
action  of  Indian  hemp  suggests  its  use  in  conditions  of  long 
continued  pain  or  spasm.  In  thirty-five  cases  of  tetanus 
in  the  human  being,  treated  with  cannabis,  twenty-one 
recovered  and  fourteen  died.  The  results  reported  in  veter- 
inary practice  have  been  almost  as  favorable ;  over  half  the 
cases  have  recovered  when  subjected  to  this  medication. 
Cannabis  ludica  is  occasionally  employed  as  a  sedative  for 
irritable  cough,  and  to  relieve  the  spasms  of  chorea. 

Caffeina.     Caffeine.     C^H^oN^O,  +  H^O. 
(U.  S.  &B.P.) 

Synonym. — Theine,  guaranine,  E.;  coffein,  G.;  cafeine,  Fr^ 

A  feebly  basic,  proximate  principle,  obtained  from  the 

dried  leaves  of  Thea  sinensis  Linne  (nat.  ord.  ternstroemia- 


CAFFEINE  37B 

cese),  or  from  the  dried  seeds  of  Coffea  arabica  Linne  (nat. 
ord.  rubiaceae),  and  found  also  in  other  plants. 

Habitat. — Indigenous  to  Africa,  and  cultivated  in  other 
tropical  countries. 

Derivation. — Crushed  coffee  is  treated  with  successive 
portions  of  boiling  water,  and  the  resulting  solution  is 
precipitated  with  lead  acetate  and  filtered.  Hydrogen  sul- 
phide decomposes  the  excess  of  lead  acetate  remaining  in 
the  filtrate.  The  latter  is  then  concentrated  by  evaporation 
and  neutralized  with  ammonia  water.  Caffeine  crystallizes 
on  cooling.  The  alkaloid  is  purified  by  charcoal  and  recrys- 
tallization. 

Properties. — Fleecy  masses  of  long,  flexible,  white  crys- 
tals, possessing  a  silky  lustre,  without  odor,  having  a  bitter 
taste,  and  permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble  in '80  parts  of 
water,  33  parts  of  alcohol,  555  parts  of  -ether,  or  7  parts  of 
chloroform.  Also  soluble  in  about  2  parts  of  boiling  water, 
and  very  soluble  in  boiling  alcohol.  Caffeiue  is  neutral  to 
litmus  paper.  Caffeine  exists,  curiously  enough,  as  the 
active  principle  of  the  national  non-alcoholic  beverages  in 
use  all  over  the  world.  Coffee  contains  .6-2.2  per  cent,  of 
caffeine,  together  with  glucose,  fat,  vegetable  casein,  tannic 
acid,  and  an  empyreumatic  oil  developed  by  roasting,  i.  e., 
caffeone.  Tea  contains  1.36-3.  per  cent,  of  caffeine,  or  theine, 
and  also  a  volatile  oil  and  tannic  acid.  Guarana  (the  seeds 
of  Paullinia  cupana)  contains  4  to  5  per  cent,  of  caffeine; 
mate,  or  Paraguay  tea  (the  leaves  of  Ilex  paraguayensis), 
contains  .45-1.2  per  cent.  Caffeine  is  found  in  kola  nut  (the 
fruit  of  Sterculia  acuminata),  used  as  a  beverage  in  Africa, 
and  now  as  a  nervous  stimulant  in  human  medicine,  and  is 
allied  to  theobromine,  occuring  in  chocolate  beans,  and  to 
cocaitfe,  existing  in  coca  leaves. 

Incompatibility. — Caffeine  is  incompatible  with  mercury 
salts,  potassium  iodide  and  tannic  acid. 

Z^ose.— H.,  gr.vii.-xv.  (.5-1.);  D.,  gr.ss.-iii.  (.03-.2),  accord- 
ing to  size. 


374  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Caffeina  Citrata.     Citrated  Caffeine.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Derivation, — Dissolve  citric  acid  (50)  in  hot,  .distilled 
water;  add  caffeine  (50)  and  evaporate  the  resulting  solu- 
tion, on  a  water  bath,  to  dryness,  constantly  stirring  towards 
the  end  of  the  operation.  Reduce  the  product  to  a  fine 
powder  and  transfer  it  to  well-closed  bottles. 

Properties. — A  white  powder,  odorless,  having  a  purely 
acid  taste  and  acid  reaction.  One  part  of  citrated  caffeine 
forms  a  clear,  syrupy  solution,  with  about  3  parts  of  water. 
Upon  dilution  with  water  this  yields  a  white  precipitate 
(caffeine),  which  redissolves  when  about  25  parts  of  water 
have  been  added.  It  is  also  soluble  in  a  mixture  of  two 
volumes  of  chloroform  and  1  volume  of  ether. 

i>o.se.--H.,  gr.xv.-xxx.  (1.-2.);  D.,gr.i.-vi.  (.06-.36). 

Action  Internal, — Caffeine  has  no  particular  action  upon 
the  digestive  tract,  except  in  large  quantities,  when  it  may 
cause  gastro-intestinal  irritation.  The  effect  of  caffeine  and 
raw  coffee  is  identical,  but  when  the  latter  is  roasted,  aroma- 
tic oils,  or  an  empyreumatic  oil,  are  developed  (caffeone). 
It  is  impossible  to  separate  completely  the  action  of  caffeine 
from  caffeone  in  boiled  coffee.  Recent  investigations  appear 
to  show  that  the  oil  (caffeone),  of  which  there  is  from  one  to 
one-half  drachm  in  a  cup  of  the  beverage,  has  no  physiolo- 
gical action  except  to  disturb  digestion  and  cause  bilious- 
ness. This  result  is  not  in  accord  with  the  general  belief, 
and  it  is  probable  that  caffeone  possesses  a  transient  action 
in  stimulating  intestinal  peristalsis,  the  cerebral  functions, 
and  in  lessening  vascular  tension. 

Circulation. — Caffeine  increases  blood  pressure  by  mak- 
ing the  heart  beat  more  forcibly  and  rapidly.  The  systolic 
contractions  are  longer  and  stronger.  Experimental  evi- 
dence concerning  the  physiological  details  of  its  action  upon 
the  heart  is  contradictory.  The  vasomotor  centres  are  not 
influenced  by  the  drug  except  in  poisoning,  when  both  the 
heart  muscle  and  vasomotor  system  are  depressed,  and  the 
heart  stops  in  diastole  after  cessation  of  respiration. 


CAFFEINE  375 

Nervous  System. — Caffeine  is  a  certain  and  direct  stimu- 
lant to  the  cerebral  cortex.  It  produces  wakefulness  and 
restlessness,  and  stimulates  the  reasoning  and  imaginative 
faculties  in  man.  In  the  lower  animals  caffeine  often  causes 
the  most  intense  cerebral  excitement  and  mania  in  large 
doses.  The  alkaloid  also  stimulates  the  spinal  motor  area, 
and  toxic  quantities  produce  restlessness,  increased  reflex 
excitability  and  convulsions  in  the  lower  animals.  It  is 
undetermined  whether  the  convulsions  are  of  cerebral  or 
spinal  origin.  The  motor  and  sensory  nerves  are  unaffected 
by  medicinal  doses.  Alcohol  and  opium  stimulate  the  brain, 
but  do  so  incoordinately.    This  is  net  the  case  with  caffeine. 

Kidneys. — The  kidneys  primarily  contract  for  two  or 
three  minutes  with  coiresponding  diminution  in  the  flow  of 
urine,  after  the  subcutaneous  injection  of  small  doses  of 
caffeine.  This  effect  is  independent  of  the  general  vascular 
condition,  and  is  followed  by  an  increase  in  the  volume  of 
the  kidneys,  with  accompanying  augmentation  of  the  urinary 
secretion,  as  shown  by  experiments  with  Roy's  oncometer. 
The  renal  cells  are  directly  stimulated.  The  drug  is  there- 
/  fore  a  local  diuretic  and  one  of  the  most  efficient  and 
powerful. 

Respiration. — The  respiration  is  not  affected  to  any 
considerable  extent  by  caffeine,  save  by  toxic  doses,  when 
it  is  depressed. 

Metabolism. — The  action  of  caffeine  (and  coffee)  upon 
tissue  change  is  inconstant.  Sometimes  it  restrains  nitro- 
genous consumption  with  corresponding  diminution  of  urea 
elimination.  Caffeine  is  entirely  decomposed  in  the  body, 
unless  ingested  in  large  quantities,  when  it  is  eliminated  in 
part  in  the  urine. 

Toxicology. — Caffeine  is  a  spinal  and  muscle  poison  to 
the  frog.  Tetanic  convulsions  occur  in  the  batrachian 
similar  to  those  produced  by  strychnine,  but  there  is  also 
muscular  rigidity.  These  phenomena  follow  the  direct 
stimulation  of  the  spinal  motor  tract  and  muscles,  and  are 
succeeded  by  paresis.     In  man,  stimulation  of  the  cerebral 


376  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

cortex  occurs,  while  both  stimulation  of  the  brain  and  cord 
are  observed  in  the  domestic  animals.  The  symptoms  of 
poisoning  in  dogs,  cats  and  mammals  generally,  are  restless- 
ness, occasion«illy  vomiting  in  dogs,  rapid  breathing,  primary 
reduction  followed  by  rise  in  temperature,  clonic  or  tonic 
convulsions,  muscular  weakness,  and  general  paresis.  Death 
occurs  from  respiratory  failure.  The  minimum  fatal  dose 
is  about  1  gr.  to  1  lb.  of  live  weight  in  the  cat. 

Administration.  —  Caffeine  and  its  ordinary  salts  are 
decomposed  by  water  and  therefore  should  not  be  given 
subcutaneously.  The  alkaloid  is  best  administered  in  solu- 
tion with  sodium  salicylate,  or  benzoate,  for  use  under  the 
skin  as  follows  : —    , 

Caflfeinae gr.xL 

Sodii  salicylatis gr.xxx. 

AqudB 3  i. 

M. 

S.  Give  fifteen  drops  hypodermically  to  horse. 

Three  drops  to  dog. 
or: — 

Caff einae 

Sodii  benzoinatis aa  ^r.xv. 

Aquae tt^xIv. 

M. 

S.    Give  one-half,  under  the  skin,  to  horse. 

The  soluble  citrate  may  be  given  internally,  but  it  is 
not  a  definite  or  reliable  preparation,  and  inferior  to  caffeine, 
which  may  be  administered  in  solution  with  a  little  citric 
acid,  or  as  above. 

Uses. — Three  indications  for  the  use  of  caffeine  may  be 
deduced  from  our  knowledge  of  its  physiological  action. 
1.  To  stimulate  the  brain.  .2.  To  stimulate  the  heart. 
3.   To  cause  diuresis. 

1.  Its  application  as  a  cerebral  stimulant  is  very  limited 
in  veterinary  medicine.  It  acts  thus  as  an  antidote  to  opium 
poisoning.  One  and  a  half  grains  of  caffeine  will  save  cats 
poisoned  by  the  minimum  fatal  dose  (gr.l|)  of  morphine. 


NUX  VOMICA  .  377 

2.  Caffeine  possesses  particular  value  in  the  treatment 
of  dropsy  of  cardiac  origin  in  dogs,  because  of  its  diuretic 
action,  as  well  as  stimulant  effect  upon  the  heart.  The 
therapeutic  indications  are  much  the  same  as  for  digitalis, 
but  caffeine  differs  from  digitalis  in  the  following  particulars : 

Does  not  prolong  diastole.        Is  not  cumulative. 

Does  not  slow  the  heart.  More  transient  in  its  effect. 

Nor  regulate  the  heart. 

Caffeine,  in  combination  with  acetanilid  and  other 
modern  coal  tar  products,  is  useful  in  preventing  their 
depressing  action  upon  the  heart.  Furthermore,  caffeine, 
tea  and  coffee  are  serviceable  in  the  treatment  of  acute 
asthenic  diseases  in  the  horse  (influenza),  dog  (distemper), 
and  in  foals  and  calves,  acting  as  nervous  and  cardiac  stimu- 
lants and  perhaps  restraining  tissue  w^ste. 

3.  The  diuretic  property  of  caffeine  renders  it  appro- 
priate in  aiding  the  absorption  of  pleuritic  effusion,  ascites, 
and  dropsies,  particularly  of  cardiac  and  renal  origin,  and 
in  the  hepatic  form  as  well. 


SECTION  II.— DEUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  SPINAL 

COED. 

Class  1. — Stimulating  the  Inferior  Cornua. 

Nux  Vomica.     Nux  Vomica.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Semen  nucis  vomicae,  poison  nut,  Quaker 
button,  E.;  noix  vomique,  Fr.;  krahen-augen,  brechnuss,  G. 

The  seed  of  Strychnos  nux- vomica  Linne  (nat.  ord. 
Loganiacese). 

Description.  —  About  25  mm.  in  diameter,  orbicular, 
grayish,  or  greenish-gray,  soft,  hairy,  of  a  silky  lustre,  with 
a,  slight  ridge  extending  from  the  centre  of  one  side  to  the 
edge ;  iuternally  horny,  somewhat  translucent,  very  tough, 
with   a  large  circular  cavity  into  which   the  heart-shaped, 


378  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

nerved  cotyledons  project.  It  is  inodorous  and  persistently 
bitter. 

Constituents. — Two  alkaloids.  1.  Strychnine,  0.2-0.6  per 
cent.  2.  Brucine  (CogHjeNjOJ,  0.5-1.0  per  cent.  Similar  in 
action  to  strychnine,  but  weaker  and  slower.  Both  alkaloids 
exist  in  combination  with  igasuric  acid.  Brucine  occurs  in 
rectangular  octohedral  crystals  ;  is  soluble  in  alcohol,  in 
7  parts  of  chloroform,  and  possesses  a  bitter  taste.  With 
sulphuric  and  nitric  acids  a  beautiful  blood-red  color  is 
developed. 

Dose.—R,  &  C,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  Sh.,  gr.xx.-xl.  (1.3-2.6);, 
Sw.,  gr.x.-xx.  (.6-1.3);  D.,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.12). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extr actum  Nucis  VomiccB.  Extract  of  Nux  Vomica.  (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  with  alcohol,  water  and  acetic  acid;  percola- 
tion with  alcohol  and  water;  distillation  to  remove  alcohol,  and  evapo- 
ration. The  liquid  extract  is  treated  with  ether,  and  sufficient  sugar  of 
milk  is  added  to  make  the  contents  of  alkaloids  equal  to  15  per  cent,  of 
of  the  dry  extract.     (U.  S.  P. ) 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  gr.vii.-xv.  (.5-1.) ;  Sh.,  gr.ii.ss.-v.  (.15-.3);  Sw.^ 
gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.12);  D.,  ^r.H  (.008-.016). 

Extractum  Nucis  Vomicce  Fliiiduin.   Fluid  Extract  of  Nux  Vomica. 

(U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  digestion  and  percolation  with  alcohol,  water  and  acetic 
acid.    The  alcohol  is  distilled  off  and  the  solution  evaporated.     Alcohol 
and  water  are  added  so  that  100  Cc.  of  the  fluid  extract  shall  contain 
Gm.  1.5  of  total  alkaloids. 

Dose.— H.  &C.,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  Sh.,  ttixx.-xxx.  (1.3-2.);  Sw.,  nx.- 
XX.  (6-1.3);  D.,  Tn,i..ii.  (.06-.12). 

Tinctura  Nucis  Vomicce.     Ticture  of  Nux  Vomica.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  solution  of  the  extract  of  nux  vomica,  20,  in  alcohol,  and 
water  to  make  1,000.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Dose,— D.,  mv.-x.  (.3-.6). 

Strychnina.    Strychnine.    G,,  H,,  N,  O,.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

An  alkaloid  obtained  from  nux  vomica,  and  also  obtain- 
able from  other  plants  of  the  natural  order  Loganiaceae. 


STRYCHNINE   SULPHATE  379 

Derivation.  —  Nux  vomica  seeds  are  powdered  and 
strychnine  is  extracted  with  water  acidulated  with  hydro- 
chloric acid.  The  solution  is  concentrated  and  strychnine 
precipitated  with  lime.  It  is  then  redissolved  in  boiling 
alcohol  and  the  crystals  are  deposited  upon  concentration 
of  the  solution. 

Properties, — Colorless,  transparent,  octohedral,  or  pris- 
matic crystals,  or  a  white,  crystalline  powder;  odorless,  and 
having  an  intensely  bitter  taste,  perceptible  in  even  highly 
dilute  (1  in  700,000)  solution.  Permanent  in  the  air. 
Soluble  in  6,700  parts  of  water,  and  in  110  parts  of  alcohol ; 
in  2,500  parts  of  boiling  water,  and  in  12  parts  of  boiling 
alcohol ;  also  soluble  in  7  parts  of  chloroform,  but  almost 
insoluble  in  ether.  Upon  ignition,  it  is  consumed,  leaving 
no  residue.  No  coloration  is  produced  with  nitric  or  sul- 
phuric acid,  but  a  drop  of  the  latter  and  a  grain  of  potassium 
bichromate,  added  to  a  crystal  of  strychnine  upon  a  porce- 
lain plate,  yields  a  beautiful  violet,  changing  into  pUrplish- 
red  and  cherry-red,  and  finally  to  orange  or  yellow. 

Dose, — Same  as  strychnine  sulphate  or  nitrate  (minimum 
quantities),  which  are  preferable  on  account  of  their  greater 
solubility. 

Strychnine  Sulphas.     Strychnine  Sulphate. 

(C,,H,,N,0,),  H,S  O,  +  5  H,0. 

(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Made  by  the  action  of  sulphuric  acid  on 
strychnine. 

Properties, — Colorless,  or  white,  prismatic  crystals,  odor- 
less, and  having  an  intensely  bitter  taste,  perceptible  in 
highly  dilute  (1  in  700,000)  solution.  Efflorescent  in  dry  air. 
Soluble  in  50  parts  of  water  and  in  109  parts  of  alcohol ;  2 
parts  of  boiling  water  and  in  8.5  parts  of  boiling  alcohol. 
Almost  insoluble  in  ether.  Upon  ignition,  it  is  consumed, 
leaving  no  residue.  On  adding  potassium  or  sodium  hydrate 
to  an   aqueous   solution  of   the  salt,  a  white  precipitate  is- 


380  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

thrown  down,  which  should  conform  to  the  test  for  strych- 
nine. 

Dose.—B..,  gr.ss.-i.ss.  (.03-.09);  C,  gr.i.-iii.  (.06-.18);  Sh., 
gr.i-i  (.015-03);  D.,  gr.^-^V  (.0005-.0015). 

The  dose  of  strychnine  should  be  proportioned  to  the 
weight  in  the  case  of  all  animals,  but  more  particularly  dogs. 
Otherwise,  convulsive  attacks  or  a  fatal  result  may  occur. 
The  dose  can  be  accurately  determined,  according  to  Feser, 
by  the  following  data : 

Dose  per  kilo  (2  lbs.  3  oz.  119.9  gr.  avoirdupois)  live  weight. 

Horse,  sheep  and  cattle 0001-.0002  (gr.gio-a^u) 

Swine 0002  .0003  (gr.^ig  ^i^)      . 

Dogs 0001  (gr.eU 

In  accordance  with  the  foregoing  figures,  dose  for 

A  horse  weighing  1,000  lbs.  is  .045. 09  (gr.^-l>^) 
A  dog  "  100   '*    "  .0045      (gr.Jg) 

*'    "  ♦*  50  ♦♦    **  .00225     (gr.^g) 

"  25   "    "  .00112     (gr.Jj) 

10  "    "  .00045     (gr.yi^) 


Moreover,  these  doses  may  be  given  every  three  hours 
without  producing  poisoning  by  their  cumulative  action. 
Notwithstanding  the  foregoing  figures,  caution  should  be 
exercised  in  prescribing  strychnine  to  dogs,  as  these  animals 
appear  sometimes  extremely  susceptible  to  strychnine,  and 
it  is  therefore  advisable  to  begin  with  a  minimum  dose 
(gr.y^)  in  small  animals. 

The  dose  of  one  grain  should  not  be  ordinarily  exceeded 
in  the  case  of  horses,  as  one  and  one-half  grains  proved  fatal 
in  an  exceptional  case.  If  animals  are  depressed  by  disease 
or  shock,  they  will  often  bear  much  larger  doses  than  could 
ordinarily  be  administered  with  safety. 

Action  External. — Strychnine  is  a  powerful  antiseptic, 
but  is  of  no  practical  value  on  account  of  its  poisonous  pro- 
perties.    Brucine  is  a  local  anaesthetic. 

Action  Internal. — Digestive  Tract. — Strychnine  and  nux 
vomica  act  as  bitter  stomachics  in  increasing  vascularity, 
appetite,  gastric  secretion  and  motion.     In  addition  to  this 


•       STiiYCHNINE   SULPHATE  381 

they  improve  the  local  tone  of  the  alimentary  canal ;  prob- 
ably by  exciting  the  various  spinal  centres.  Strychnine 
also  stimulates  the  intestinal  muscular  tunic  and  therefore 
increases  peristaltic  action. 

Circulation, — Strychnine  excites  the  heart  muscle  and 
motor  ganpjlia,  and  thus  makes  the  cardiac  pulsations  more 
forcible.  Large  doses  diminish  the  frequency  of  the  frog's 
heart,  and  produce  diastolic  pauses.  Blood  tension  is 
heightened  by  medicinal  doses,  through  stimulation  of  the 
medullary  vasomotor  centres.  Toxic  quantities  cause  vaso- 
motor paralysis  and  fall  of  arterial  tension.  Experiments 
conducted  with  blood  (Harley)  containing  strychnine,  shaken 
with  air  for  24  hours,  resulted  in  the  blood  yielding  about 
one-third  more  oxygen  and  one-half  less  carbonic  dioxide, 
than  blood,  minus  strychnine,  similarly  treated.  Harley 
concluded  that  strychnine  arrests  oxidation  in  the  body, 
but  there  is  no  physiological  evidence  that  such  is  the  case 
in  life. 

Nervous  System  and  Muscles. — Strychnine  is  essentially 
a  spinal  stimulant.  Many  ingenious  experiments  conclu- 
sively prove  that  the  principal  effect  of  strychnine  (convul- 
sions) is  produced  by  direct  stimulation  of  the  cells  of  the 
inferior  cornua.  The  alkaloid  also  appears  to  cause  dilata- 
tion of  the  arterioles  in  the  spinal  cord. 

Two  experiments  only  may  be  presented.  The  first 
proves  that  the  action  of  strychnine  in  producing  convul- 
sions is  of  spinal  origin;  the  second  that  the  alkaloid  acts 
upon  the  inferior  cornua. 

1.  When  strychnine  is  placed  directly  upon  the  spinal 
cord  of  a  frog,  after  the  blood  has  been  withdrawn  from  the 
body,  and  allowed  to  diffuse  through  its  substance,  convul-. 
sions  occur.  These  are  limited,  at  first,  to  those  muscles 
whose  nerves  have  their  insertion  nearest  the  point  of 
application  of  the  poison,  and  then  they  progress  as  the 
alkaloid  continues  its  path  of  absorption  through  the  cord. 

2.  When  every  part  of  a  frog  below  the  second  cervical 
vertebra  has  been  removed,  save  the  nerves,  muscles  and 


382  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

bones,  and  the  inferior  cornua  be  cut  under  the  third  cervi- 
cal vertebra  and  the  tissues  entirely  separated,  so  that  the 
fore  part  of  the  frog  is  connected  with  the  hind  part  only  by 
the  superior  columns,  then  strychnine  dropped  in  the  mouth 
produces  tetanic  spasm  solely  in  the  fore  legs.  This  shows 
that  the  cells  of  the  inferior  columns  only  were  those  affected. 
Furthermore,  it  is  probable  that  other  centres  of  the  entire 
spinal  tract,  including  the  medulla,  are  stimulated  to  a  less 
degree.  Thus  the  respiratory  centres,  the  vasomotor  centres, 
as  well  as  the  reflex  and  trophic  centres,  are  excited ;  but 
the  medullary  cardiac  centre  is  but  slightly,  if  at  all,  affected 
by  moderate  doses.  The  cerebrum  is  not  influenced  by  the 
drug,  as  consciousness  is  retained  throughout  the  period  of 
poisoning  until  asphyxia  supervenes.  The  muscles  and  sen- 
sory nerves  are  unaffected  by  any  dose  of  strychnine.  But 
the  motor  nerves  are  paralyzed  at  once  by  enormous  doses  of 
the  alkaloid ;  or  are  paralyzed  in  the  later  stages  of  poisoning 
by  less  amounts.  Therefore,  convulsions  do  not  appear  at 
all,  or  cease  when  this  condition  is  reached.  An  experiment 
performed  upon  a  frog,  poisoned  with  strychnine,  in  which 
all  the  tissues  of  one  hind  leg  were  previously  ligated,  except 
the  sciatic  nerve,  showed  that  stimulation  of  the  intact  leg 
caused  spasms  only  of  the  ligated  leg,  since  in  the  latter 
the  motor  nerve  fibres  had  not  been  reached  by  the  drug 
(because  of  the  ligation),  and  therefore  were  not  paralyzed 
as  were  those  in  the  limb  left  intact. 

Respiration. — It  is  probable  that  strychnine,  in  thera- 
peutic doses,  is  the  most  reliable  and  powerful  respiratory 
stimulant  at  our  command.  The  breathing  is  quickened  and 
deepened  by  the  stimulating  action  of  the  alkaloid  on  the 
medullary  respiratory  centres. 

Organs  of  Special  Sense. — The  eye-sight  and  hearing  are 
rendered  more  acute  by  strychnine. 

Elimination. — Strychnine  escapes  to  some  extent  un- 
changed in  the  urine,  while  a  portion  of  it  is  converted  into 
strychnic  acid.  The  alkaloid  is  found  in  the  urine  within' 
half  an  hour  of  its  ingestion,  and  is  said  to  be  entirely  elim- 


STRYCHNINE   SULPHATE  883 

inated  within  forty-eight  hours.  Strychnine  is  one  of  the 
drugs  that  is  supposed  to  possess  a  cumulative  action,  {.  e., 
which  exhibits  sudden  and  powerful  effects  after  its  con- 
tinuous administratioD.  This  is  said  to  be  due  to  the  fact 
that  it  is  not  eliminated  as  rapidly  as  it  is  iugested,  owing 
to  contraction  of  the  renal  vessels,  and  that  it  accumulates 
in  the  spinal  cord.  The  cumulative  effect  is  not  seen  when 
the  drug  is  given  subcutaneously;  on  the  contrary,  the  sys- 
tem becomes  so  habituated  to  it  that  ordinarily  poisonous 
doses  can  then  be  given  with  safety.  Therefore,  when  a 
cumulative  action  is  observed,  it  is  probably  owing  to 
delayed  absorption. 

Administration. — For  tonic  purposes,  strychnine  may  be 
given  to  dogs  in  pills  or  tablets,  and  to  horses  in  solution 
dropped  on  the  tongue.  Nux  vomica  is  given  to  horses  upon 
the  food  in  the  form  of  powder,  or  in  fluid  extract  upon  the 
tongue;  while  the  tincture  is  more  appropriate  for  dogs. 
When  large  doses  of  strychuine  are  used,  or  an  immediate 
action  is  desired  in  acute  diseases  and  emergencies,  the 
alkaloid  should  be  given  under  the  skin. 

Toxicology.  • —  One-twentieth  of  a  grain  of  strychnine 
nitrate,  injected  subcutaneously  by  the  writer  into  a  dog 
weighing  25  lbs.,  caused  uneasiness  and  excitement,  with 
protrusion  of  the  eye-balls,  and  in  the  space  of  ten  minutes, 
tetanic  convulsions.  The  breathing  was  shallow  and  almost 
imperceptible,  the  pulse  rapid  and  irregular,  the  lips  were 
covered  with  foam,  the  tail  was  stiff  and  extended,  the  ears 
laid  back,  and  there  was  general  muscular  rigidity,  the 
animal  lying  on  his  side  in  a  state  of  opisthotonos.  This 
condition  lasted  about  three  minutes,  and  was  followed  by  a 
period  of  relaxation.  But  the  slightest  noise  or  irritation  of 
the  skin  brought  on  convulsions.  The  convulsions  became 
less  frequent  and  violent,  and  ceased  altogether  within  half 
an  hour.  The  same  animal  was  given  gr.^^^  of  the  alkaloid 
on  the  following  day,  but  without  producing  any  appreciable 
result.  One-tenth  of  a  grain,  given  on  another  day  and  in 
the  same  manner,  caused  immediate  uneasiness  and  restless- 


384  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

ness,  and  in  ten  minutes  induced  a  severe  convulsion,  lasting 
for  three  minutes,  in  which  the  animal  was  so  rigid  that  he 
could  be  lifted  bodily  without  bending.  The  ears  were 
drawn  back,  the  limbs  were  extended  and  stiff,  the  tail  was 
straight  and  rigid,  and  there  was  twitching  of  the  muscles 
of  the  jaw  and  limbs.  The  corners  of  the  mouth  were  drawn 
back  (risus  sardonicus),  the  mouth  was  covered  with  foam, 
and  there  was  some  trismus.  The  breathing  was  nearly- 
suppressed,  owing  to  tetanic  spasm  of  the  respiratory 
muscles.  Following  this  convulsion,  the  jaw  dropped,  the 
muscles  relaxed  and  another  attack  could  not  be  produced 
by  noises  or  external  irritation.  Some  twitching  of  the 
temporal  muscles  persisted.  Evidently  the  second  stage  of 
poisoning  had  ensued,  and  the  motor  nerves  and  cells  of  the 
inferior  cornua  had  become  paralyzed.  Death  occurred  in 
general  paralysis  within  half  an  hour,  and  without  any 
recurrence  of  convulsions  or  tetanic  condition.  Death  takes 
place  more  commonly  in  strychnine  poisoning  from  asphyxia, 
during  a  convulsion,  and  is  caused  by  spasm  of  the  respira- 
tory muscles,  or,  more  rarely,  by  spasm  of  the  glottis. 
Sometimes  a  fatal  result  ensues  from  exhaustion,  between 
the  paroxysm,  and  occasionally  death  appears  to  follow  the 
intense  action  on  the  nervous  system,  and  depression  of  the 
heart. 

The  lethal  dose  for  dogs  has  been  set  at  gr.|^-gr.J 
(Kaufmann).  This  is  much  too  large,  as  evidenced  by  the 
experiment  mentioned  above.  The  fatal  amount  varies 
greatly  in  accordance  with  the  weight  of  an  animal;  probably 
less  than  gr.^  would  kill  toy  terriers,  and  cases  are  reported 
where  they  have  been  destroyed  by  gr.^  of  the  alkaloid. 
The  therapeutic  dose  should  therefore  be  proportioned  as 
advised,  to  the  weight  of  the  animal.  Five  to  eight  grains 
of  nux  vomica  will  kill  dogs. 

The  minimum  fatal  dose  of  strychnine  for  man  is  one- 
half  a  grain.  Usually  four  to  seven  grains  constitute  a 
lethal  quantity,  but  recovery  has  ensued  following  the  inges- 
tion of  22  grains,  after  a  full  meal. 


STRYCHNINE   SULPHATE  385 

Horses, — ^The  toxic  symptoms  in  horses  resemble  those 
already  described  in  the  dog.  They  do  not  appear  for  some 
time  (20  minutes  to  6  hours),  depending  on  the  rapidity  of 
absorption  when  the  drug  is  swallowed,  and  include  excite- 
ment, muscular  spasm  and  convulsions,  increased  frequency 
of  the  pulse,  and  difficult  respiration.  Death  occurs  in  con- 
vulsions or  in  the  interim  between  them.  The  minimum 
fatal  dose  of  strychnine,  when  given  under  the  skin,  is  about 
IJ  to  3  grains,  and  when  swallowed,  3  to  5  grains  of  the 
alkaloid,  or  1  to  2  ounces  of  nux  vomica. 

Cattle  are  similarly  affected  with  horses  and  dogs. 
There  are  exhibited  muscular  spasms,  frequent  pulse,  diffi- 
cult respiration,  sensitiveness  to  light,  sounds  and  external 
stimuli,  protrusion  of  the  eye-balls  and  convulsions.  The 
fatal  dose,  by  the  month,  varies  greatly  owing  -to  difficulty 
of  absorption  in  the  complicated  and  capacious  digestive 
apparatus  of  these  ruminants.  This  is  true  of  all  medicines. 
When  given  under  the  skin,  the  lethal  dose  is  a  little  larger 
than  that  for  horses.  The  fatal  dose  for  swine  is  said  to  be 
from  gr.|^-gr.|.  Chickens  are  comparatively  insusceptible; 
also  guinea  pigs  and  some  monkeys. 

Strychnine  poisoning  differs  from  tetanus  .in  the  fact 
that  muscular  rigidity  is  continuous  in  the  latter,  but  disap- 
pears to  a  considerable  degree,  if  not  completely,  in  the 
periods  between  the  convulsions,  in  the  case  of  strychnine 
poisoning.  Moreover,  in  tetanus  the  body  and  limbs  are 
less,  and  the  jaw  more  affected ;  while  in  strychnine  poison- 
ing the  condition  is  reversed. 

Treatment. — The  treatment  embraces  the  use  of  chemical 
antidotes,  as  iodine  or  its  salts,  or  tannic  acid ;  animal  char- 
coal and  emetics  or  the  stomach  tube,  before  absorption  has 
occurred.  The  best  physiological  antidote  is  chloral  in 
large  doses  per  rectum.  Chloroform  and  nitrite  of  amyl 
may  also  be  given  by  inhalation,  and  quiet  and  rest  enforced. 
Artificial  respiration  is  of  no  service  on  account  of  the  mus- 
cular spasms,  unless  air  be  forcibly  driven  into  the  trachea 
through   a   canula.       Calabar  bean    and   gelsemium   both 


386  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

depress  the  inferior  cornua,  but  neither  are  of  much  valuy 
in  strychnine  poisoning. 

Post  Mortem  Appearances. — These  are  simply  those  of 
asphyxia,  with  the  usual  congestive  lesions  and  dark  fluid 
blood,  except  that  sometimes  spinal  hypersemia  is  ob- 
served. 

Uses  Interned. — The  indications  for  the  employment  of 
strychnine  may  be  directly  deduced  from  its  physiological 
actions.     The  indications  are  as  follows  : 

1.  To  stimulate  the  heart  and  respiration. 

2.  To  stimulate  the  spinal  cord ;  more  particularly  the 
motor  cells  of  the  inferior  cornua. 

3.  To  stimulate  appetite,  digestion,  and  intestinal  peri- 
stalsis in  atonic  conditions. 

1.  Strychnine  is  the  best  remedy  we  can  employ  to 
stimulate  the  heart,  respiration  and  nervous  system,  and  to 
promote  appetite  and  digestion  in  acute  diseases.  No  better 
drug  can  be  used  in  the  treatment  of  pneumonia  and  influ- 
enza in  horses.  Strychnine  should  not  be  used  continuously, 
but  only  to  bridge  over  a  period  of  weakness  or  collapse. 
It  may  be  combined  in  the  first  stages  of  pneumonia  with 
nitrites,  as  spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  or  nitroglycerii}.  The 
latter  dilate  arterioles,  equalize  the  circulation  by  prevent- 
ing venous  stasis,  and  engorgement  of  the  right  heart;  while 
strychnine  is  preferable  to  digitalis  as  a  heart  stimulant, 
because  it  does  not  so  powerfully  contract  the  arterioles. 
Strychnine  is  useful  in  influenza  by  counteracting  nervous 
depression  and  improving  the  appetite  and  digestion.  In 
collapse  and  shock,  following  surgical  operations,  or  in  ether 
and  chloroform  poisoning,  strychnine  is  invaluable  as  a 
cardiac  and  respiratory  stimulant,  given  in  large  doses 
subcutaneously.  In  chronic  heart  disease,  strychnine  is  a 
useful  remedy.  The  alkaloid  has  proved  extremely  service- 
able in  chronic  bronchitis,  emphysema,  and  in  that  combi- 
nation of  these  disorders,  often  associated  with  asthma  and 
known  as  "broken  wind"  or  "heaves,"  in  horses. 

The  beneficial  effect  in  these  diseases  is  explained  by 


STRYCHNINE   SULPHATE  387 

the  stimulating  action  of  the  drug  on  the  respiratory  centres, 
and  the  favorable  influence  exerted  on  digestion. 

2.  In  mild  cases  of  chorea  in  dogs,  strychnine  is  pre- 
scribed to  advantage  with  Fowler's  solution.  In  accordance 
with  its  physiological  action,  strychnine  is  indicated  in 
various  paralyses  of  spinal  origin,  but  should  not  be  used 
where  there  is  irritation  or  inflammation  of  the  spinal  motor 
tract.  It  is  employed  in  hemiplegia  and  paraplegia,  result- 
ing from  haemorrhage,  after  the  lapse  of  several  weeks,  when 
irritation  produced  by  the  clot  has  passed  away.  Strychnine 
is  said  to  be  efficacious  in  the  after-treatment  of  cerebro- 
spinal meningitis  of  horses,  and  also  in  the  paraplegia  of  cattle 
(from  parturient  fever),  and  that  of  dogs  resulting  from  various 
and  often  undiscovered  causes.  Strychnine  is  serviceable 
in  the  paralysis  of  lead  poisoning,  and  in  that  form  caused 
by  traumatism  or  toxaemia  following  influenza,  distemper  in 
dogs,  and  rheumatism.  When  injected  into  the  muscular 
tissue,  the  alkaloid  is  believed  to  stimulate  the  peripheral 
nerves  and  muscular  fibres,  and  is  employed  with  benefit  in 
localized  paralyses  affecting  groups  of  muscles  before  atro- 
phy has  occurred,  as  in  *' roaring"  in  horses. 

Either  retention  or  incontinence  of  urine,  resulting  from 
atony  or  paralysis  of  the  bladder,  may  be  relieved  by  strych- 
nine ;  also  prolapse  of  the  rectum  induced  by  similar  causes. 
Strychnine  has  proved  curative  in  some  cases  of  amaurosis, 
when  injected  in  the  region  of  the  temple. 

3.  Strychnine  or  nux  vomica,  associated  with  iron  and 
arsenic,  form  the  most  generally  satisfactory  tonic  combina- 
tion for  the  horse  and  dog,  particularly  with  reference  to 
the  digestion.  Atonic  forms  of  indigestion  and  constipation, 
the  accompaniments  of  anaemia,  are  those  amenable  to  the 
influence  of  the  drug,  which  stimulates  peristalsis,  and  there- 
fore hinders  fermentation,  prevents  relaxation,  and  so  over- 
secretion  from  loss  of  vascular  tone. 

Strychnine  is  a  valuable  remedy  in  overloaded  rumen 
and  chronic  tympanitis  of  cattle ;  or  in  overloaded  and  im- 
pacted large  intestines  of  the  horse.     It  should  be  given 


388  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

subcutaneouslj  in  these  conditions,  and  frequently  in  com- 
bination with  pilocarpine  and  eserine. 

Constipation,  and,  on  the  other  hand,  diarrhoea,  are 
benefited  by  strychnine  when  they  are  due  to  atony  of 
the  intestinal  muscular  coat.  It  is  more  commonly  in 
the  former  disorder  that  the  drug  finds  its  usefulness. 
The  aloiii,  strychnine  and  belladonna  pills,  with  cascara 
sagrada,  are  useful  in  habitual  constipation  in  dogs,  but  the 
weaker  formula,  containing  gr.y^  of  strychnine,  should  be 
employed.  The  value  and  application  of  strychnine  in  ano- 
rexia and  atonic  digestive  disorders  has  been  sufficiently 
treated  above. 


Class  2. — Depressing  the  Inferior  Cornua. 

'  Physostigma.     Physostigma.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Physostigmatis  semen,  B.  P.  ;  Calabar  or 
ordeal  bean,  faba  physostigmatis,  S.  faba  Calabarica,  E. 
The  seed  of  Physostigma  venenosum.  Balfour  (nat.  ord. 
leguminosae). 

Habitat. — Calabar  and  the  region  of  the  mouth  of  the 
Niger,  in  Western  Africa. 

Description, — About  25  to  30  mm.  long,  15  to  20  mm. 
broad,  and  10  to  15  mm.  thick;  oblong  and  somewhat  reni- 
form;  testa  granular,  chocolate-brown,  with  a  broad,  black 
groove  extending  over  the  entire  length  of  the  convex  edge. 
Embryo  with  a  short,  curved  radicle  and  two  large,  white^ 
concavo-convex  cotyledons;  inodorous;  taste  bean-like. 

Constituents. — The  principal  constituent  is  the  alkaloid 
physostigmine,  or  eserine.  There  are  also  the  alkaloida 
calabarine,  a  product  resulting  from  the  decomposition  of 
eserine,  and  eseridine,  similar  in  action  to  eserine,  but 
weaker ;  and  a  neutral  principle,  physoterin,  resembling 
cholesterine. 

Calabar  Bean  Dose. — H.,  gr.xv.-xxx.  (1.-2.) ;  D.,  gr.^-i. 
(.015-.06). 


PHYSOSTIGMINE   SALICYLATE  389 

The  official  preparations  are  the  fluid  extract  and  tinc- 
ture of  physostigma,  but  physostigmine  is  solely  used  in 
veterinary  medicine,  since  it  is  more  certain  and  generally 
free  from  calabarine,  which  produces,  in  toxic  doses,  a 
tetanic  condition  followed  by  paralysis. 

Physostigmine  Salicylas.     Physostigmine  Salicylate. 
C,,H,,N30AHeO,     (U.S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Eserine  salicylate.  The  salicylate  of  an 
alkaloid  obtained  from  physostigma. 

Derivation. — Physostigmine  is  obtained  from  the  alco- 
holic extract  of  Calabar  bean  by  dissolving  the  extract  in 
water,  adding  sodium  bicarbonate,  shaking  the  mixture  with 
ether,  and  evaporating  the  ethereal  liquid.  The  salicylate 
of  the  alkaloid — the  most  stable  salt — is  made  by  adding 
physostigmine  to  a  solution  of  salicylic  acid  in  boiling 
distilled  water,  when  the  salt  crystallizes  on  cooling. 

Properties. — Colorless,  or  faintly-yellowish,  shining,  aci- 
cular,  or  short,  columnar  crystals;  odorless,  and  having  a 
bitter  taste.  Soluble  in  150  parts  of  water,  and  in  12  parts 
of  alcohol ;  in  30  parts  of  boiling  water,  and  very  soluble  in 
boiling  alcohol.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.—n.,  gr.i.-i.ss.  (.06-.09);  C,  gr.i.-iii.  (.06-.18);  D., 
gr.rk-yV  (.0006-.002). 

Given  usually  intratracheally  or  subcutaneously  to 
horses. 

Physostigmine  Sulphas.     Physostigmine  Sulphate. 
U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Eserine  sulphate. 

The  sulphate  of  an  alkaloid  obtained  from  physostigma. 

Properties. — A  white,  or  yellowish-white,  micro-crystal- 
line powder,  odorless,  and  having  a  bitter  taste.  It  is  vei^y 
deliquescent  when  exposed  to  moist  air,  and  gradually  turns 
^reddish  by  exposure  to  air  and  light.  Very  soluble  in  water 
and  in  alcohol. 


390  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Dosc—n.,  gr.i.-iss.  (.06-.09) ;  C,  gr.i.-iii.  (.06-18) ;  D., 
gr.Tk-gr.A  (.0006-002). 

Given  usually  iutratracheally  or  subcutaneously  to 
horses. 

PHYSOSTIGMINE. 

Action  Internal. — Alimentary  Tract. — The  flow  of  saliva 
is  at  first  stimulated,  whether  by  direct  excitation  of  the 
salivary  cells  or  not,  is  undetermined.  Salivation  ceases 
when  the  gland  is  deprived  of  blood  by  general  vascular  con- 
traction. The  peristaltic  action  of  the  stomach  and  bowels 
is  increased  by  the  direct  local  action  of  the  alkaloid  on  the 
muscles  or  ganglia  of  their  walls.  There  are  three  stages,  in 
reference  to  this  action,  observed  in  poisoning.  First  there  is 
stimulation  of  peristaltic  action,  then  tetanic  contraction  and 
diminution  of  the  intestinal  calibre,  and  finally  relaxation 
and  dilatation  of  the  bowels.  The  secretions  in  the  digestive 
tract  are  probably  augmented.  When  the  alkaloid  is  given 
to  horses,  under  the  skin,  or  within  the  trachea,  defsecation 
and  expulsion  of  gas  commonly  occurs  in  the  space  of  an 
hour,  occasionally  in  a  few  minutes,  and  is  often  consider- 
able in  amount. 

Circulation. — Eserine  is  readily  absorbed,  but  exerts  no 
influence  on  the  blood.  Moderate  doses  render  the  cardiac 
pulsations  slower  and  more  forcible,  and  increase  vascular 
tension.  Large  toxic  doses  cause  the  heart  to  beat  more 
rapidly  and  less  forcibly.  The  first  effect  is  due  probably 
to  stimulation  of  the  peripheral  vagi  and  heart  muscle,  and 
possibly  the  involuntary  muscular  fibres  in  the  vessel  walls. 
The  second  phenomenon  follows  depression  of  the  heart  and 
peripheral  vagi,  and  terminates  in  cardiac  paralysis  and 
diastolic  arrest.  The  action  on  the  circulation  is  entirely 
subordinate  to  the  influence  of  the  drug  upon  the  nervous 
system,  and  is  unimportant  from  a  therapeutical  stand- 
point. 

Nervous  System  and  Muscles. — The  essential  physiologi- 
cal action  of  physostigmine  consists  in  depressing  the  cells 


PHYSOSTIGMINE  391 

of  the  inferior  cornua.  This  has  been  abundantly  and 
directly  proved  by  application  of  the  alkaloid  to  the  spinal 
cord;  and,  indirectly,  by  dividing  the  inferior  from  the 
superior  portion  of  the  cord,  by  stopping  the  blood  supply 
to  the  latter  part,  when  the  drug  caused  loss  of  motor  power 
and  abolition  of  reflex  action  in  the  inferior  portion,  while 
reflex  phenomena  were  undisturbed  in  the  superior  portion 
(Frazer).  The  superior  columns  are  finally  depressed ;  per- 
ception of  pain  is  wanting,  but  that  of  touch  persists.  The 
sensory  nerves  are  not  aff'ected,  and  the  motor  nerve  trunks 
bat  slightly.  The  muscular  tremors  are  due  to  stimulation 
of  the  voluntary  muscles  themselves,  or  to  the  motor  nerve 
endings.  These  are  characteristic  of  physostigma  poisoning 
in  animals — not  in  man — and  are  probably  due  to  calabarine, 
which  should  not  be  present  in  pure  physostigmine.  The 
involuntary  muscles  throughout  the  body  are  stimulated, 
including  those  of  the  stomach,  intestines,  bronchial  tubes, 
heart,  blood  vessels  (?),  spleen,  uterus,  bladder  and  iris.  In 
the  case  of  some  of  these  organs,  it  has  not  been  decided 
whether  the  muscles  themselves,  or  the  motor  nerve  termi- 
nations, are  affected. 

Respiration. — The  respiration  is  not  disturbed  by  medi- 
cinal doses.  Toxic  quantities  at  first  quicken,  and  then 
retard  the  respiratory  movements,  and  death  occurs  from 
asphyxia,  before  cessation  of  the  heart,  owing  to  paralysis 
of  the  medulLiry  and  spinal  respiratory  centres.  The  accel- 
eration of  breathing  is  due  to  the  stimulation  of  the  pulmo- 
nary vagal  endings,  and  possibly  to  constriction  of  the 
unstriped  muscle  of  the  bronchial  tubes. 

Secretions. — Secretion  is  generally  increased,  including 
that  of  the  salivary,  gastric,  intestinal,  sudoriparous  and 
lachrymal  glands.  In  this  respect  eserine  is  antagonistic  to 
atropine. 

Eye. — Physostigmine  is  a  myotic,  applied  locally  or 
administered  internally.  Intraocular  tension  is  diminished 
and  there  is  spasm  of  accommodation.  In  all  probability 
contraction  of  the  pupil  is  brought  about  by  stimulation  of 


392  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

the  oculomotor  nerve  endings  simultaneously  with  paralysis 
of  the  terminations  of  the  sympathetic  nerve  in  the  iris. 
Eserine  is  thus  directly  antagonistic  to  atropine  in  its  effect 
upon  the  eye,  but  they  resemble  each  other  in  that  they 
both  exert  a  local  action  and  do  not  affect  the  irides  of  birds. 
Enormous  doses  of  physostigmine  paralyze  the  oculomotor 
nerves  and  dilate  the  pupil. 

Elimination. — Eserine  is  rapidly  absorbed  and  elimin- 
ated, mainly  by  the  urine,  but  also  in  the  other  secretions. 

Toxicology. — Physostigma  has  been  called  *'ordeal  bean," 
because  native  Africans  suspected  of  crime  are  given  the 
crude  drug.  Vomiting  it,  they  are  proved  innocent  and 
survive  the  ordeal.  Retaining  it,  they  die,  and  so  are  pro- 
perly and  primitively  punished.  Animals  poisoned  by  Cala- 
bar bean  exhibit  muscuhir  tremors  which  continue  through- 
out the  toxic  period,  and  are  often  so  violent  as  to  simulate 
convulsions.  Soon  there  is  loss  of  muscular  ])ower  and  the 
animal  falls  or  lies  down.  The  respiration  becomes  rapid, 
labored,  and  stertorous;  the  pulse  is  increased  in  frequency 
by  large  toxic  doses,  and  the  temperature  slightly  elevated. 
There  are  salivation  and  sweating.  The  pupil  is  sometimes 
contracted  and,  when  enormous  lethal  doses  have  been 
injected,  dilated.  Vomiting  occurs  in  animals  capable  of 
the  act,  and  loud  peristaltic  noises  are  heard,  followed  by 
the  expulsion  of  faeces  and  flatus.  Reflex  action  is  dimin- 
ished or  abolished,  but  sensation  is  preserved  until  late  in 
the  toxic  period.  The  muscles  are  completely  relaxed  and 
powerless,  notwithstanding  the  tremors  which  afflict  them. 
The  breathing  becomes  weak  and  irregular,  and  death  occurs 
from  respiratory  failure.  A  healthy  gelding,  weighing  1,050 
lbs.,  was  strapped  upon  the  dissecting  table  and  given,  by 
the  writer,  three  grains  of  eserine  sulphate  intrajugularly. 
Within  a  few  minutes  slight  muscular  tremors  appeared  in 
the  neck;  the  pulse  rose  to  120,  the  respiration  was  24,  and 
the  temperatrrre  normal.  There  was  slight  sweating.  The 
pulse  soon  fell  to  60,  and  was  strong  and  hard,  while  the 
respiration  became  rapid  and  labored.    No  other  symptoms 


PHYSOSTIGMINE  393 

developing  within  25  minutes  after  the  first  dose,  three 
grains  of  the  alkaloid  were  administered  in  the  same  manner 
as  before.  The  pulse  became  more  frequent  (78),  the  respi- 
ration (48)  was  difficult,  and  the  muscular  tremors  increased 
in  violence  till  they  resembled  convulsions.  Sweating  was 
profuse,  while  saliva  dropped  freely  f lom  the  mouth.  The 
respiration  and  pulse  were  now  reduced  in  frequency  and 
became  weaker.  The  pupils  were  unaffected,  but  the  eyes 
were  staring.  One-half  hour  after  the  second  dose,  increased 
peristaltic  action  wag  evidenced  by  loud  noises  and  the 
expulsion  of  gas  and  dung.  Recovery  began  in  two  hours 
from  the  exhibition  of  the  second  dose.  It  is  possible  that 
the  severe  muscular  tremors  were  caused  by  contamination 
of  the  eserine  with  calabarine,  as  the  former  was  not 
a  fresh  preparation.  An  aged  express  horse,  suffering 
for  a  week  from  impaction  of  the  colon,  was  given  twelve 
miuims  of  a  commercial  extract  of  calabar  bean.  He 
fell  down  almost  immediately,  perspired  freely,  exhibited 
muscular  tremors,  and  expired  within  a  few  minutes.  The 
writer  is  unable  to  state  the  minimum  fatal  dose  for 
horses,  but  eserine  should  be  used  with  caution  in  weak 
subjects. 

The  minimum  fatal  dose  is  stated  to  be  from  g^-iV'xV 
for  dogs,  and  gr.^-^  for  cats.  The  treatment  should  be 
pursued  with  emetics,  or  the  stomach  pump,  and  the  anti- 
dote, atropine.  The  latter  will  prevent  death  in  rabbits 
when  given  ^ye  minutes  after  the  administration  of  three 
times  a  minimum  fatal  dose.  Atropine  should  be  given 
under  the  skin,  together  with  alcoholic  stimulants,  digitalis, 
and  ammonia  by  the  mouth.  Artificial  respiration  should 
be  practised  and  external  heat  applied.  The  essential  action 
of  atropine  in  antagonizing  eserine,  consists  in  stimulation 
of  the  respiratory  centres,  while  it  depresses  the  peripheral 
cardiac  vagi,  and.  so,  to  a  certain  extent,  counteracts  the 
primary  influence  of  eserine  on  the  heart.  Large  doses  of 
atropine  may  only  exaggerate  the  secondary  depression  of 
eserihe  upon  the  peripheral  vagi  in  the  heart,  and  so  hasten 


394  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

a  fatal  result.  Strychnine  is  antagonistic  to  eserine  in  stimu- 
lating the  respiratory  centres  and  inferior  cornua. 

Uses  External, — Physostigmine  has  been  injected  empir- 
ically, but  it  is  asserted  with  good  results,  into  chronic 
dropsical  effusions  of  joints  and  bursse  of  tendons  in  horses, 
after  removal  of  the  fluid  by  aspiration.  From  .05  .1  gm.  is 
used,  dissolved  in  5,-10.  gm.  of  sterile  water ;  and  this  treat- 
ment is  followed  by  cold  applications  for  several  days  after- 
wards. 

Uses  Internal. — Three  physiological  actions  of  eserine 
are  put  to  therapeutical  uses. 

1.  The  myotic  action  on  the  eye. 

2.  Stimulation  of  the  involuntary  muscles. 

3.  Depression  of  the  inferior  cornua. 

1.  Eserine  is  useful,  in  alternation  with  atropine,'  to 
break  up  adhesions  to  the  iris  and  to  lessen  intraocular 
tension  in  glaucoma,  and,  by  this  action,  to  prevent  prolapse 
of  the  iris  and  staphyloma,  after  wounds  and  ulcers  of  the 
cornea.  It  is  also  employed  to  contract  the  pupil  and  shut 
out  the  light  in  photophobia,  and  to  antagonize  the  influence 
of  atropine  on  the  eye.  The  action  of  eserine  is,  however, 
not  nearly  so  powerful  or  persistent  as  that  of  atropine  on 
the  eye,  and  is  somewhat  painful.  It  is  employed  in  1  per 
cent,  solution. 

2.  Physostigmine  is  mainly  of  value  for  its  action  in 
rapidly  stimulating  the  unstriated  muscles  of  the  alimentary 
canal.  In  obstinate  constipation  ot  horses  it  is  particularly 
useful ;  1  gr.  of  eserine  sulphate  being  given  intratracheally 
with  3  grs.  of  pilocarpine  sulphate;  the  latter  to  increase 
the  intestinal  secretions.  Strychnine  sulphate  (gr.l)  may 
be  added  to  counteract  the  depressing  action  of  eserine  on 
the  respiratory  centres  and  inferior  cornua. 

Physostigmine  is  valuable  in  obstruction  of  the  bowels, 
from  twist  or  intussusception  in  the  horse,  and  while  there 
is  danger  that  the  condition  may  be  aggravated  by  the 
increased  intestinal  movement,  yet  it  is  the  best  remedy  at 
our  command  when  high  rectal  injections  an<l  elevatien  of 


PHYSOSTIGMINE  395 

the  hind  quarters  of  the  patient  fail.  The  alkaloid,  in  com- 
bination with  pilocarpine,  is  serviceable  for  its  speedy 
action  in  flatulent  colic  and  impaction  of  the  caecum,  colon, 
and  rectum  in  horses,  and  has  been  employed  to  expel 
calculi  and  foreign  bodies  from  the  intestines. 

Physostigmine  is  contraindicated  in  spasmodic  colic, 
when  it  may  increase  the  trouble  by  exciting  intense  peri- 
staltic contractions.  Its  employment  is  also  attended  with 
some  danger  in  overloaded  or  greatly  distended  stomach 
or  bowels,  in  view  of  possible  rupture  of  these  organs.  The 
drug,  like  other  purgatives,  may  aggravate  the  damage  pro- 
duced by  twist  or  intersusception. 

In  atonic  conditions  of  the  stomach  and  bowels,  and  in 
indigestion  due  to  chronic  intestinal  catarrh,  small  and 
repeated  doses  of  eserine  are  sometimes  of  benefit.  There 
have  recently  been  reported  many  successful  cases  of  partu- 
rient apoplexy  in  cows  treated  with  eserine.  One  or  two 
grains  are  injected  intratracheally  or  subcutaneously  to 
cause  a  rapid  movement  of  the  bowels.  In  these  patients 
the  drug  is  followed  by  strychnine  subcutaneously  to  combat 
paralysis. 

Eserine  has  been  employed  in  chronic  bronchitis,  asth- 
ma and  emphysema,  to  improve  the  tone  of  the  bronchial 
mucous  membranes  and  expel  secretions. 

3.  Eserine  is  one  of  the  drugs  commonly  used  in  the 
treatment  of  tetanus  in  human  and  veterinary  practice,  with 
only  a  moderate  degree  of  success.  It  must  be  employed 
early,  given  every  three  or  four  hours,  and  pushed  to  the 
physiological  limit.  Chorea  and  epilepsy  have  been  treated 
with  eserine  without  any  pathological  basis,  as  far  as  epil- 
epsy is  concerned,  and  with  little  therapeutic  advantage  in 
either  instance.  In  some  cases  of  paraplegia,  resulting  from 
myelitis,  a  favorable  effect  has  been  obtained  in  man. 
Eserine  is  an  appropriate  purgative  (hypodermatically)  in 
acute  encephalitis. 

Physostigmine  and  pilocarpine  are  the  two  best  anti- 
dotes in   atropine  poisoning.     Eserine  has   been   used  in 


396  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

strychnine  poisoning,  but  is  inferior  to  chloral,  bromides 
and  anaesthetics,  and  while  it  is  antagonistic  to  a  certain 
extent,  and  alters  the  character  of  strychnine  convulsions, 
yet  animals  die  more  quickly  when  poisoned  by  both  strych- 
nine and  eserine,  than  by  strychnine  alone. 

Gelsemium.     Gelsemium.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Eadix  gelsemii,  yellow  jessamine,  E.;  racine 
de  jasmin  jaune,  Fr.;  gelber  jasmin-wurzel,  G.  The  rhizome 
or  roots  of  Gelsemium  sempervirens  (Linne)  Persoon  (nat. 
ord.  Loganiacese). 

Habitat — Southern  United  States. 

Description. — Cylindrical,  long,  or  cut  in  sections,  mostly 
from  5  to  15  mm.  and  occasionally  3  cm.  thick,  the  roots 
much  thinner ;  externally  light  yellowish-brown,  with  pur- 
plish-brown longitudinal  lines;  tough;  fracture  splintery; 
bark  thin,  with  silky  bast-fibre  closely  adhering  to  the  pale, 
yellowish,  porous  wood,  which  has  fine  medullary  rays,  and 
in  the  rhizome  a  thin  pith ;  odor  aromatic,  heavy ;  taste 
bitter. 

Constituents. — The  most  important  is  the  first  alkaloid. 
1.  Gelsemine,  C64H69N4O12.  A  colorless,  crystallizable,  bitter 
principle,  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  slightly  in 
water.  2.  Gelseminine,  a  brown,  amorphous,  bitter  alkaloid. 
3.  Gelseminic  acid.     4.  A  volatile  oil. 

Dose.—B..,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  D.,  gr.v.-x.  (.3-.6). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extraetum  Oelsemii  Fluidum.    Fluid  Extract  of  Gelsemium. 

(U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration,  percolation  and  evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc. 
=  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 

i)ose.— H.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  D.,  mv-x.  (.3-.6). 

Tinctura  Oelsemii.    Tincture  of  Gelsemium.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Gelsemium,  150;    alcohol  and  water  to  make  1,000.     Made  by- 
maceration  and  percolation.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.,  |ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  D.,  nxv.- 3  i.  (1.-4.). 


GELSEmNE  397 

Oelsemina.    Gels^mine. 
(Non-official.) 
Dose.-B..,  gr.  i-i  (.015-.03);  D.,  gr.gL-sS  (.001-.003). 

Action  External, — None. 

Action  Internal. — Gelsemium  exerts  no  action  on  the 
digestive  apparatus,  or  on  the  blood,  after  its  absorption; 
neither  does  it  affect  the  circulation  in  medicinal  doses,  but 
in  toxic  quantities  it  directly  depresses  the  heart.  The 
influence  of  the  drug  on  the  vasomotor  system  is  unknown. 

Nervous  System  and  Muscles.  —The  prominent  effect  of 
gelsemium  is  directed  on  the  nervous  system,  as  evidenced 
by  paralysis  and  convulsions  after  large  doses.  Both  the 
convulsant  and  paralyzant  action  are  of  spinal  origin.  That 
the  convulsions  are  not  cerebral  is  shown  by-  the  fact  that 
they  occur  below  the  point  of  section  in  mammals  (under 
the  influence  of  the  drug),  with  divided  spinal  cord.  That 
they  are  not  peripheral  is  proved  by  their  occurrence  in  the 
hind  extremities  when  the  posterior  aorta  is  tied  before  the 
animal  is  poisoned.  The  paralyzant  action  of  gelsemium  is 
due  to  direct  depression  of  the  cells  of  the  inferior  cornua, 
and  this  is  followed,  in  the  later  stages  of  poisoning,  by 
depression  of  the  spinal  sensory  tract  and  general  anaes- 
thesia. 

The  cause  of  the  secondary  convulsions  is  undeter- 
mined. A  tetanizing  principle  in  gelsemium,  antagonistic  to 
gelsemine,  such  as  we  find  in  physostigma,  has  been  thought 
to  be  the  cause  of  the  convulsions.  The  muscles,  motor 
(except  those  of  the  face)  and  sensory  nerves  are  unaffected 
by  gelsemium. 

Respiration, — Gelsemium,  in  toxic  doses,  progressively 
weakens  and  paralyzes  the  medullary  and  spinal  respiratory 
centres,  and  death  occurs  from  asphyxia. 

Eye. — In  poisoning,  in  animals,  there  is  dilatation  of  the 
pupil  produced  in  the  latest  stages  of  the  toxic  period.  In 
man,  there  is,  in  addition  to  this,  paralysis  and  drooping  of 
the  eyelids  (ptosis),  and  paralysis  of  the  recti  muscles  with 


398  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

strabismus.  These  symptoms  have  been  attributed  with 
apparent  reason  to  paralysis  of  the  motor  cells  in  the  floor 
of  the  fourth  ventricle  and  aqueduct  of  Sylvius,  since  they 
are  a  prolongation  of  the  spinal  motor  tract.  As  the  pupil 
is  dilated,  however,  by  the  application  of  much  smaller 
doses  than  are  required  by  the  mouth,  it  seems  probable 
that  mydriasis  results  from  local  paralysis  of  the  oculo- 
motor nerve  endings. 

Toxicology. — Poisoning  in  animals  is  exhibited  by  mus- 
cular weakness,  especially  in  the  fore  legs,  staggering  gait 
and  falling.  These  symptoms  are  followed  by  convulsive 
movements  of  the  muscles  of  the  head,  fore  legs,  and  some- 
times of  the  hind  legs.  The  respiration  is  slow  and  difficult, 
the  pulse  feeble ;  temperature  is  reduced,  and  there  is 
sweating.  Consciousness  is  preserved  until  the  occurrence 
of  asphyxia.  Death  takes  place  from  respiratory  failure, 
with  almost  simultaneous  cardiac  arrest.  Morphine  sub- 
cutaneou.sly  has  proved  a  successful  antidote.  Respiratory 
and  heart  stimulants  should  be  employed  in  poisoning  by 
gelsemium,  such  as  strychnine,  atropine,  alcohol,  and  digi- 
talis, together  with  artificial  respiration,  after  evacuation  of 
the  stomach. 

Uses. — Gelsemium  possesses  little  value  in  veterinary 
medicine.  There  is  no  therapeutic  use  to  which  it  has  been 
put  that  cannot  be  filled  to  better  advantage  by  some  other 
remedy.  Thus,  gelsemium  has  been  employed  as  a  cardiac 
depressant  and  antipyretic  in  acute  diseases  (pneumonia 
and  pleurisy),  but  its  other  actions  are  disadvantageous  and 
it  is  inferior  to  aconite,  veratrum  viride,  or  the  modern  anti- 
pyretics. In  spasmodic  diseases,  irritable  cough,  vesical  irri- 
tation, tetanus,  chorea,  etc.,  it  is  less  satisfactory  as  a  motor 
depressant  than  opium,  belladonna,  chloral,  and  bromides. 
Zuill,  however,  reports  very  successful  results  in  horses  from 
gelsemine  (.08  Gm.)  in  tetanus.  The  dose  should  be  given 
under  the  skin  every  half  hour  till  muscular  relaxation 
occurs.  The  drug  has  been  used  considerably  to  relieve 
rheumatic  and  neuralgic  pains,  but  these  succumb  more 


TOBACCO  399 

readily  to  opium,  coal  tar  products,  etc.  As  a  mydriatic, 
gelsemine  is  not  to  be  compared  with  atropine  for  general 
purposes,  but  its  action  is  more  transient.  A  solution  (gr.8- 
3  i.)  is  instilled  (in  man)  in  drop  doses  every  fifteen  minutes 
for  one  hour,  and  then  every  thirty  minutes  for  two  hours, 
to  secure  wide  dilatation  of  the  pupil ;  or  discs,  containing 
gr.g^  of  gelsemine  (with  gelatine)  are  used  for  application 
to  the  eye. 


SECTION    III.— DEUGS   ACTING  ON    THE   SPINAL 
COED   AND   MOTOE  NEEVES. 

Class  1. — Depressing  the  Inferior  Cornua 
and  Motor  Nerves. 

Tabacum.     Tobacco, 

Synonym. — T abaci  folia,  B.  P. 

The  commercial  dried  leaves  of  Nicotiana  Tabacum 
Linne  (nat.  ord.  solanacese). 

Habitat. — Tropical  America.  Cultivated  in  various  tem- 
perate and  tropical  parts  of  the  earth. 

Description. — The  leaves  are  up  to  .50  Cm.  long,  oval  or 
ovate-lanceolate,  acute,  entire,  brown,  friable,  glandular- 
hairy,  of  a  heavy,  peculiar  odor  and  a  nauseous,  bitter  and 
acrid  taste. 

Constituents. — Chiefly  nicotine,  Cjo  H^^  Nj  (0.7-5.-10  per 
cent.).  A  colorless,  volatile,  oily  alkaloid,  resembling  tobacco 
in  odor  and  taste.  Freely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether; 
less  so  in  water.  Nicotine  is  decomposed  by  heat  and 
therefore  tobacco  smoke  contains  none  of  it,  but  in  its  stead, 
pyridine  Cg  Hg  N,  and  various  allied  alkaloids,  viz.:  picoline, 
Cg  H^  N ;  lutidine,  C,  Hg  N ;  rubidine,  C^  Hj,  N ;  coridine, 
Cio  His  N  ;  parvoline,  Cg  H^a  N  ;  and  collidine,  C^  H^  N  ; 
together  with  small  amounts  of  sulphur,  creosote,  acetic 
and  hydrocyanic  acids  and  carbon  compounds.  Pyridine 
resembles  nicotine  in  depressing  the  spinal  motor  tract  and 


400  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

in  paralyzing  respiration,  and  is  said  to  be  formed  more  in 
pipe  smoke,  while,  in  the  smoke  of  cigars,  the  more  harm- 
less  coUidine   is   produced  by  dry  distillation.      Nicotine 
exists  to  a  very  slight  degree  in  Turkish  tobacco. 
i?06e.— Nicotine,  H.  &  C,  gr.^-^V  (.001-.003). 

ACTION  OF  TOBACCO  AND  NICOTINE. 

Action  External. — Tobacco  is  a  local  anodyne,  antiseptic 
and  parasiticide. 

Action  Internal.  —  Digestive  Tract.  —  The  physiological 
effect  of  tobacco  is  due  to  nicotine.  Nicotine  increases  peri- 
staltic action  and,  in  large  doses,  causes  tetanic  spasm  of 
the  intestines,  even  when  it  is  injected  into  the  blood.  In 
toxic  quantities  nicotine  is  a  powerful  gastro -intestinal  irri- 
tant, and  produces  the  usual  symptoms  of  pain,  vomiting 
(in  animals  capable  of  the  act),  purging  and  collapse. 

Circulation. — When  nicotine  is  added  to  blood  recently 
withdrawn  from  the  body,  this  fluid  assumes  a  dark  hue, 
and  the  corpuscles  quickly  disintegrate.  The  blood,  in 
poisoning,  becomes  dark  colored,  owing  to  asphyxia,  but 
regains  its  arterial  tint  when  removed  from  the  body  and 
shaken  with  air.  It  is  only  in  poisoning  by  enormous  quan- 
tities that  changes  in  the  red  blood  corpuscles  can  be 
detected  microscopically,  although  the  spectrum  of  haemo- 
globin is  altered  in  poisoning,  proving  that  the  corpuscles 
are  in  some  way  affected.  Experiments  with  nicotine  upon 
frogs  show  that  there  is  produced  a  primary  fall  in  blood 
pressure  and.  pulse  rate,  followed  by  a  rise  in  both,  only  to 
be  succeeded  by  a  return  to  the  original  depressed  condition 
caused  l?y  the  alkaloid. 

The  exact  physiological  data  accounting  for  these  circu- 
latory phenomena  have  not  been  worked  out,  although  they 
are  probably  dependent  upon  stimulation  followed  by 
depression  of  the  inhibitory  apparatus  and  vasomotor  sys- 
tem. 

Nervous  System  and  Muscles.— "^iGoiuiQ  first  stimulates, 
and  then  paralyzes  the  cells  of  the  inferior  cornua  and  motor 


ACTION   OF   TOBACCO   AND  NICOTINE  40i 

nerves,  so  that  iu  poisoning  convulsions  are  succeeded  by 
paralysis.  The  cerebrum  is  unaffected  ;  likewise  the 
muscles,  but  the  function  of  the  sensory  nerves  is  somewhat 
depressed. 

Respiration. — The  respiration  is  depressed  in  some  un- 
known manuer. 

Eye. — Nicotine,  in  moderate  toxic  doses,  or  when  applied 
locally,  contracts  the  pupil.  This  action  is  exceptional  for 
a  member  of  the  solanacese.  Myosis  is  produced  in  the  eye, 
recently  removed  from  the  head,  so  that  the  action  must 
be  a  local  one.  It  is  due  to  paralysis  of  the  endings 
of  the  cervical  sympathetic  nerve  and,  probably,  to 
stimulation  of  the  peripheral  oculomotor  nerve  termination 
as  well. 

Elimination. — Nicotine  is  eliminated  in  the  urine,  which 
is  increased  in  amount  thereby. 

Toxicology. — Nicotine  is  one  of  the  most  powerful  and 
rapidly  acting  poisons.  When  swallowed,  it  causes,  in  ani- 
mals, local  irritation  and  pain  in  the  throat  and  stomach; 
muscular  tremors  and  weakness,  on  account  of  which  the 
animal  falls.  These  symptoms  are  followed,  first,  by  severe 
tonic  and  clonic  convulsions,  and  then  by  abolition  of  volun- 
tary motion  and  quietude.  The  pupils  are  contracted,  and 
there  is  vomitiug  (in  the  case  of  some  animals),  purging  and 
micturition.  The  respiration  is  at  first  shallow  and  rapid, 
but  becomes  weaker  and  slower,  and  death  occurs  from 
respiratory  failure  and  general  collapse.  The  pulse  is 
primarily  slow  and  intermittent,  but  later  becomes  rapid. 
The  treatment  of  poisoning  consists  in  evacuation  of  the 
stomach  ;  the  use  of  tannic  acid  ;  respiratory  and  heart 
stimulants,  as  strychnine,  atropine,  and  alcohol;  together 
with  external  heat  and  artificial  respiration.  The  minimum 
lethal  dose  is  about  one  drachm  of  tobacco,  or  one  minim  of 
nicotine,  for  small  dogs.  For  horses,  five  to  ten  drops  of 
nicotine  or  one-half  pound  of.  tobacco. 

Uses. — Tobacco  is  not  a  particularly  valuable  medicinal 
agent.     Its  internal  action  is  often  violent,  and  causes  great 


402  VEGETABLE  PKUGS 

nausea.  Absorption  and  poisoning  may  follow  its  external 
application  in  the  smaller  animals.  The  drug  may  be  em- 
ployed for  four  purposes,  as  follows : 

1.  As  a  local  sedative. 

2.  As  a  parasiticide. 

3.  As  a  motor  depressant. 

4.  As  a  cathartic. 

External. — 1.  Tobacco  is  an  efficient  sedative  in  decoc- 
tion (1-40),  for  relieving  pruritus  ani  and  vulvae.  It  must  be 
remembered  that  absorption  and  poisoning  may  occur  when 
larger  amounts  are  used  externally  than  can  be  administered 
with  safety  by  the  mouth. 

2.  The  latter  remark  applies  also  to  the  use  of  tobacco 
decoctions  in  killing  parasites  on  the  skin,  such  as  the 
acari  of  mange  and  scab,  together  with  lice  and  fleas. 
There  are  other  agents  which  are  as  efficient  and  less  dan- 
gerous (creolin).  A  decoction  can  be  made  by  boiling 
tobacco  (2.5)  with  water  (130),  salt  (5),  and  wood  ashes  (10), 
for  three  hours,  as  recommended  by  Ostertag. 

Internal. — 3.  Tobacco  has  been  employed  as  a  motor 
depressant  in  spasmodic  disorders,  such  as  asthma,  tetanus 
(given  by  the  rectum  or  under  the  skin),  and  strychnine 
poisoning,  but  it  is  inferior  to,  and  more  dangerous  than, 
other  drugs. 

4.  The  Germans  prescribe  tobacco  to  stimulate  peri- 
stalsis in  ruminants,  in  doses  of  2  ounces,  with  one-half 
pound  of  common  salt  and  one  pound  of  Glauber's  salts  for 
cattle ;  and  for  sheep,  \  ounce,  with  2  ounces  of  salt  and  3 
ounces  of  Glauber's  salts.  Tobacco  was  given  formerly  in 
colic  and  intestinal  obstruction,  but  this  use  is  obsolete. 
The  decoction  (1-2  per  cent.)  may  be  injected  into  the 
rectum  of  horses,  in  non-toxic  quantities,  to  kill  oxyurides 
and  ascarides,  and  to  excite  peristalsis  and  relieve  spasm 
in  colic. 

Tobacco  smoke  is  sometimes  used  in  the  same  manner 
to  destroy  worms  in  the  lower  bowels. 


CONIUM  403 

CONIUM.     Conium. 

Synonym. — Conii  folia,  B.  P.;  hemlock  fruit,  E.;  fruits 
de  grande  cipjue,  Fr.;  schierliugsfriiclite,  G. 

The  full  grown  fruit  of  Conium  maculatum  Linne  (nat. 
ord.  umbelliferse),  gathered  while  yet  green. 

Habitat. — Indigenous  to  Europe  and  Asia,  but  natura- 
lized in  the  United  States. 

Description. — About  3  mm.  long;  broadly  ovate;  later- 
ally compressed;  grayish-green;  often  divided  into  the  two 
mericaips,  each  with  five  crenate  ribs,  without  oil-tubes,  and 
contMiiiiug  a  seed  which  is  grooved  on  the  face ;  odor  and 
taste  slight.  When  triturated  with  a  solution  of  potassium 
or  sodium  hydrate,  conium  gives  off  a  strong,  disagreeable, 
mouse-like  odor.  Conium  fruit  resembles  carraway  and 
anise  seed,  but  these  have  oil-tubes  or  vittae. 

Constituents.  —  There  are  two  essential  principles  in 
conium :  conine,  or  coniine,  and  methyl-coniine. 

1.  Conine,  Cg  Hi^  N,  is  a  yellowish,  oily,  volatile  liquid 
alkaloid,  of  an  odor  resembling  that  of  mouse  urine,  and 
acrid  taste.  It  is  freely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and 
is  soluble  in  100  parts  of  water,  with  which  it  forms  a 
hydrate.  It  undergoes  decomposition  when  exposed  to  air 
and  heat,  and  becomes  first  brown  and  then  resin-like.  For 
this  reason  the  alkaloid  is  uncertain  in  its  physiological 
action,  but  its  salts  (the  hydrobromate  and  acetate)  are 
more  stable  and  reliable.  Conine  may  be  obtained  by  dis- 
tillation of  the  fruit  with  an  alkaline  water. 

2.  Methyl-coniine,  Cg  H^g  C  N,  is  a  colorless  liquid. 

3.  There  is  also  a  nearly  inert  and  crystalline  alkaloid, 
conhydrine. 

Incompatihility. — "Vegetable  acids,  caustic  alkalies  and 
astringents  are  incompatible  with  conium. 

Conium  Dose.— R.  &  C,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.x.- 
XX.  (.6-1.3);  D.,  gr.ii.-v.  (.12-.3). 

Conince  Hydrohromas. — H.  &  C,  gr.|-l^  (.04:5-.l);  Sh. 
<fe  Sw.,  gr.H  (.012-.024);  D.,  gr.^-^  (.001-.002). 

Dissolved  in  alcohol. 


404  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Conii.     Extract  of  Conium.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  acetic  acid  and  diluted 

alcohol,  and  evaporation  to  pilular  consistence.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  gr.xii.-xxiv.  (.72-1.5);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.ii.-iv.  (.12-.24); 

D.,  gr.M-i.  (.015-.06). 

Extractum  Conii  Fluidum.    Fluid  Extract  of  Conium.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  acetic  acid  and  diluted 

alcohol,  and  evaporation  so  that  1  Coi^  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.)  ;    Sh.  &  Sw.,  mx  -xx.  (.6-1.3) ;    D., 

mii.-v.  (.12-.3). 

ACTION  OF  CONIUM  AND   CONINE. 

External.  —  Conine  is  an  irritant  applied  to  mucoua 
membranes.  Conium  is  thought  to  act  as  a  local  sedative 
upon  raw  surfaces.  Physiological  experiments  show  that 
the  sensory  nerves  are  but  slightly  depressed. 

Internal— Circulation. — Conium  has  little  effect  upon 
the  digestive  apparatus,  except  in  toxic  doses,  when  it  may 
cause  irritation,  vomiting  and  diarrhoea.  It  is  absorbed  and 
produces  primary  acceleration  of  the  pulse,  probably  owing 
to  paralysis  of  the  pueumogastric,  followed  by  a  fall  in  the 
pulse  rate.  The  action  on  the  circulation  is  insignificant 
compared  to  that  on  the  nerves. 

Nervous  System  arid  Muscles. — The  predominant  action 
of  conium  consists  in  paralyzing  the  voluntary  and  in- 
voluntary muscles,  with  loss  of  motion  but  without  loss 
of  consciousness  or  sensation.  That  this  effect  is  due 
to  paralysis  of  the  motor  nerves  has  been  proved  by 
poisoning  frogs  with  conium  after  ligature  of  the  aorta,  so 
til  at  the  blood  supply  to  the  hiud  legs  was  cut  off.  Failure 
of  motion  and  reaction  to  galvanism  occurs  in  the  fore  legs, 
but  irritation  of  the  paralyzed  fore  legs  causes  reflex  con- 
traction of  the  posterior  extremities.  This  experiment  shows 
that  the  motor  nerves  are  paralyzed  in  the  fore  legs,  but 
that  the  sensory  nerves  and  spinal  cord  retain  their  func- 
tional activity.  The  afferent  nerves  are  somewhat  depressed 
by  enormous  doses.     The  brain  and  spinal  cord  are  slightly 


ACTION   OF   CONIUM   AND   CONINE  405 

affected  by  conium.  The  convulsions  occurring  in  conium 
poisoning  appear,  nevertheless,  to  be  of  cerebral  origin, 
although  consciousness  is  retained  until  the  stage  of  asphy- 
xia. The  special  senses  are  somewhat  interfered  with  (sight). 
The  motor  cells  of  the  inferior  cornua  are  slightly  depressed 
by  methyl-coniine,  which  influences  the  cord  as  well  as  the 
motor  nerves,  but  it  is  considerably  less  active  than  conine. 
The  muscles  are  primarily  unaffected. 

Eye. — The  pupil  is  dilated  (not  constantly)  and  ptosis 
is  observed  in  poisoning  by  conium,  owing  to  paralysis  of 
the  oculomotor  nerve  eudings.  If  conine  is  dropped  into 
the  eye,  primary  contraction,  due  to  reflex  irritation,  is  soon 
succeeded  by  dilatation  of  the  pupil. 

Respiration.  —  The  spinal  and  medullary  respiratory 
centres  are  finally  depressed  by  lethal  doses  of.  conium,  and 
this  result,  together  with  paralysis  of  the  respiratory  muscles, 
causes  death  by  asphyxia. 

Ulimination.— Conine  is  excreted  by  all  channels,  but 
mainly  in  the  urine. 

Toxicology. — The  minimum  fatal  dose  of  conium  is  un- 
certain, owing  to  the  proneness  of  the  alkaloid  to  decompo- 
sition, and  to  the  volatility  and  the  variable  amount  con- 
tained in  the  crude  drug.  A  few  drops  of  the  alkaloid  will 
kill  small  cats  and  dogs.  Herbivora,  as  goats,  sheep  and 
horses,  are  less  susceptible  than  carnivora. 

The  domestic  animals  occasionally  become  accidentally 
poisoned  by  eating  hemlock  at  pasture.  The  symptoms 
exhibited  are  dulness,  loss  of  muscular  power  (at  first  in 
the  hind  legs),  stumbling  and  falling,  or  lying  down.  We 
observe,  also,  nausea,  salivation  (sometimes  amaurosis), 
dilatation  of  the  pupil  and  ptosis,  sweating,  and  often  mus- 
cular tremors  and  clonic  convulsions.  The  pulse  becomes 
slow  and  feeble,  the  breathing  faint,  the  surface  cold  and 
clammy,  and  the  animal  often  lies  as  still  as  though  dead,  so 
complete  is  the  paralysis.  Death  finally  occurs  from  asphy- 
xia, frequently  associated  with  coma.  The  respiration  ceases 
before  the  heart-beat.     The  urine  of  poisoned  animals  may 


406  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

be  used  as  a  physiological  test  in  frogs,  to  decide  doubtful 
cases.  The  treatment  of  poisoning  consists  in  evacuation  of 
the  stomach  and  the  use  of  tannic  acid,  artificial  respiration, 
external  heat,  and  respiratory  and  cardiac  stimulants,  as 
strychnine,  atropine  and  alcohol.  The  post  mortem  appear- 
ances are  those  of  asphyxia,  with  sometimes  evidences  of 
gastro-intestinal  irritation. 

Administration. — Conium  is  best  given  in  the  form  of 
the  fluid  extract  or  hydrobromate  of  the  alkaloid.  The 
English  use  the  succus  conii,  of  which  the  dose  for  the  horse 
is  3  ii.-iv.;  dog,  3  ss.-i.;  but  it  is  inferior  to  the  fluid  extract 
and  often  inert.  The  initial  dose  of  any  preparation  should 
be  small,  on  account  of  the  variation  in  strength,  but 
should  be  rapidly  increased  until  physiological  effects  are 
evident. 

Uses  External. — Conium  is  occasionally  applied  extern- 
ally as  a  poultice  of  the  leaves,  or  in  ointment  (equal  parts 
of  cerate  and  extract  of  conium),  to  relieve  pain  of  sores, 
ulcers,  malignant  growths,  rheumatism  and  neuralgia.  It  is 
thought  to  be  both  resolvent  and  curative  on  cancers  and 
tumors,  but  without  sufficient  basis.  It  relieves  pain  when 
pain  is  due  to  spasm. 

Uses  Internal.  — Conium  is  rarely  used  in  veterinary 
medicine  on  account  of  the  uncertainty  of  its  preparations 
and  natural  therapeutic  limitations.  Conium  has  been  em- 
ployed as  a  motor  depressant  in  many  diseases,  but  should 
only  be  prescribed  for  spasm  due  to  irritation  of  nerve 
trunks  or  endings ;  not  for  spasmodic  conditions  of  central 
origin.  In  tetanus  and  strychnine  poisoning,  it  is  valueless, 
and  is  not  wholly  antagonistic  (tremors  and  convulsions)  in 
convulsive  disorders.  When  an  animal  poisoned  with  strych- 
nine is  given  paralytic  doses  of  conium,  the  tetanic  spasms 
of  strychnine  still  persist.  The  drug  has  been  prescribed  in 
chorea,  however,  and  with  temporary  benefit,  when  the  con- 
vulsive movements  were  so  severe  as  to  threaten  life. 


COCAINE   HYDROCHLORATE  407 

SECTION   IV.— DEUGS  ACTING   ON  THE 
SENSORY  NERVES. 

Class  1.— Depressing  the  Sensory  Nerves. 

Cocaine  Hydrochloras.     Cocaine  Hydrochlorate. 
C,  H,,  N  O,  H  CI.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

The  hydrochlorate  of  an  alkaloid  obtained  from  coca 
(or  cuca)  leaves.  These  are  derived  from  the  Erythroxylon 
coca  Lamarck  (nat.  ord.  Lineae).  Cultivated  in  Peru  aad 
Bolivia,  and  introduced  into  medicine  by  Koller  in  1884. 

Derivation.  —  Cocaine  hydrochlorate  is  recovered  by 
agitating  an  acidulated  alcoholic  solution  of  coca  leaves  with 
ether.  The  ethereal  liquid  is  made  alkaline  with  sodium 
carbonate  and  evaporated.  The  residue  is  purified,  decolor- 
ized, neutralized  with  hydrochloric  acid,  and  finally  crystal- 
lized. 

Description, — Colorless,  transparent  crystals,  or  a  white, 
crystalline  powder;  without  odor;  of  a  saline,  slightly  bitter 
taste,  and  producing  upon  the  tongue  a  tingling  sensation, 
followed  by  numbness  of  some  minutes'  duration.  Perma- 
nent in  the  air.  Soluble  in  0.48  part  of  water,  and  in  3.5 
parts  of  alcohol ;  very  soluble  in  boiling  water  and  in  boiling 
alcohol;  also  soluble  in  2,800  parts  of  ether,  or  in  17  parts 
of  chloroform.  The  prolonged  application  of  heat  to  the 
salt,  or  to  its  solution,  induces  decomposition.  The  salt  is 
neutral  to  litmus  paper. 

Dose.—K.,  gr.v.-x.  (.3-.6);  D.,  gr.i-|  (.008-.045). 

Action  External — Solutions  of  cocaine  (4-10  percent.), 
applied  to  mucous  membranes,  produce  perfect  local  anaes- 
thesia by  paralyzing  the  sensory  nerve  endings.  The 
functions  of  the  nerves  of  special  sense  are  abolished  before 
those  of  ordinary  sensibility.  Stronger  solutions  paralyze 
the  motor  nerve  terminations.  The  local  application  of 
cocaine  causes  pallor  of  the  mucous  membrane,  which  is 
succeeded  by  redness  and  congestion.     The  first  condition 


408  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

follows  constriction  of  the  superficial  blood  vessels,  which 
is  said  to  be  due  to  tonic  contraction  of  the  smooth  muscular 
fibres  of  the  vessel  walls.  The  secondary  vascular  relaxa- 
tion, and  tendency  to  congestion  in  parts  subjected  to 
cocaine  anaesthesia,  lessens  the  resistance  of  the  tissues 
(especially  of  sensitive  structures,  as  the  eye)  to  the  irri- 
tation of  antiseptics  and  bacterial  products.  Therefore, 
surgical  operations  performed  under  cocaine  anaesthesia  are 
somewhat  more  prone  to  be  followed  by  inflammation. 

Action  Internal. — Digestive  Tract. — Cocaine  exerts  a  local 
anaesthetic  action  upon  the  gastric  mucous  membrane,  and 
in  this  way  lessens  the  appetite  and  sometimes  stops  vomit-, 
ing.  Intestinal  peristalsis  is  increased  by  moderate  doses, 
but  is  decreased  and  destroyed  by  the  paralytic  action  of 
large  doses  of  cocaine. 

Nervous  System. — Ordinary  medicinal  doses  produce  no 
marked  effect  upon  the  nervous  system,  except  some  mental 
exhilaration.  Full  doses  of  cocaine  stimulate  the  psychical 
functions  of  the  brain  and  cause  intoxication,  which  is  fol- 
lowed, in  poisoning,  by  stupor  and  convulsions.  The  con- 
vulsions are  mainly  of  cerebral  origin,  but  may  be  due  in 
part  to  irritation  of  the  spinal  reflex  centres.  These  latter 
centres  are  first  stimulated  by  toxic  doses,  but  depression 
and  paralysis  of  the  spinal  cord  follows ;  the  sensory  before 
the  motor  tract. "  The  sensory  nerves  are  paralyzed  and  the 
motor  nerves  depressed  by  toxic  doses.  The  voluntary 
muscles  are  stimulated  by  medicinal  doses  of  cocaine,  and 
the  alkaloid  relieves  fatigue  and,  experimentally,  more  than 
doubles  the  response  to  stimuli  in  wornout  muscles.  Volun- 
tary muscles  are  paralyzed  by  the  local  application  of  large 
quantities  of  cocaine. 

Circulation. — The  action  of  cocaine  upon  the  heart  and 
vessels  is  not  very  marked,  except  in  poisoning.  The  alkal- 
oid is,  however,  a  slight  cardiac  stimulant  in  moderate  doses, 
increasing  the  pulse-rate  and  tension.  The  action  upon  the 
heart  is  caused  by  depression  of  the  cardio  -  inhibitory 
centres,  and  sometimes  as  well  by  depression  of  the  cardiac 


COCAINE   HYDROCHLORATE  409 

inhibitory  ganglia.  Vascular  tension  is  increased  because 
of  stimulation  of  the  medullary  vasomotor  centres,  smooth 
muscle  of  the  vessel  walls,  and  because  of  the  increased 
action  of  the  heart.  On  the  other  hand,  both  minute  and 
large  doses  may  diminish  the  pulse  rate. 

Respiration.  —  Cocaine  is  a  respiratory  stimulant  in 
medicinal  doses,  but  a  paralyzant  in  toxic  amounts.  The 
respiratory  centres  are  first  stimulated  and  the  breathing  is 
made  deeper  and  quicker.  Depression  and  paralysis  of  the 
respiratory  centres  follow ;  cyanosis  supervenes,  and  the 
respirations  are  shallow  and  irregular.  Death  occurs  from 
•asphyxia. 

Temperature. — The  body  heat  is  elevated,  sometimes  to 
an  excessive  degree,  by  poisonous  doses  of  cocaine.  Medi- 
cinal doses  do  not  affect  the  temperature.  The  rise  of  tem- 
perature is  said  to  follow  increased  heat  production. 

Kidneys. — The  greater  part  of  the  cocaine  absorbed  is 
oxidized  within  the  body.  The  smaller  part  is  eliminated 
by  the  kidneys.  Experimental  evidence  concerning  the 
influence  of  the  alkaloid  upon  the  secretion  and  composition 
of  the  urine  is  conflicting  and  indefinite. 

Toxicology. — Moderate  doses  produce  in  dogs  mental 
exhilaration  and  joyousness,  so  that  they  bark  and  jump 
about  with  delight.  Poisoning  with  large  doses  {^r.\  of 
cocaine  to  2  lbs.  of  live  weight)  may  be  divided  into  three 
stages.  In  the  first  stage,  there  is  restlessness,  anxiety  and 
terror,  with  rhythmical  movements.  Noises  frighten  the 
animal  and  he  fails  to  recognize  his  master.  The  second 
stage  is  characterized  by  a  joyous  condition,  in  which  dogs 
bark,  dance  about  and  lick  people's  hands.  In  the  third 
stage,  weakness  and  nervous  phenomena  appear, — as  mus- 
cular twitching,  rhythmical  movements,  a  pendulum-like 
motion  of  the  head,  convulsions  and  stupor.  There  is  dys- 
pnoea, feeble  pulse  and  failing  respiration.  In  an  experiment 
upon  a  Newfoundland  dog,  weighing  about  100  lbs.,  con- 
ducted by  the  writer,  there  were  no  symptoms  produced  by 
3  grains  of  cocaine  under  the  skin,  except  dilation  of  the 


410  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

pupils  and  a  constant  lapping  witli  the  tongue.  In  man,  an 
amount  of  cocaine  exceeding  gr.|  should  not  be  employed 
under  the  skin,  or  upon  mucous  membranes,  and  death  has 
occurred  in  susceptible  patients  from  even  smaller  doses. 
The  most  powerful  action  follows  the  use  of  cocaine  in  very- 
vascular  parts,  as  about  the  face.  One-half  a  grain  of  cocaine 
given  subcutaneously  to  a  girl  eleven  years  old,  was  followed 
by  a  fatal  result  in-  40  seconds,  and  the  writer  has  seen 
violent  convulsions  produced  by  the  instillation  of  a  few 
drops  of  a  2  per  cent,  solution  into  the  eye  of  a  man.  On 
the  other  hand,  spontaneous  recovery  has  obtained  in  the 
human  subject  after  the  ingestion  of  22  grs.  of  the  alkaloid.. 
In  the  horse,  a  toxic  dose  of  cocaine  ( 3  i-)  causes  restless- 
ness and  excitement,  dilated  pupils  and  salivation,  culminat- 
ing within  an  hour  in  a  state  of  acute  mania  and  intense 
excitement.  These  symptoms  are  followed  by  gradual 
recovery  after  the  lapse  of  a  few  hours.  Three  grains  of 
cocaine  given  under  the  skin,  will  sometimes  induce  nervous 
excitement  in  susceptible  horses.  The  treatment  of  danger- 
ous forms  of  cocaine  poisoning,  with  respiratory  and  heart 
failure,  consists  in  the  use  of  rapidly  acting  stimulants, — as 
nitroglycerin  upon  the  tongue,  and  strychnine,  atropine 
and  brandy  subcutaneously. 

Uses  External. — Cocaine  and  its  synthetic  chemical  sub- 
stitutes are  the  most  valuable  agents  we  possess  to  cause 
complete  local  anaesthesia  for  surgical  purposes.  The 
operations  most  suitable  for  the  hypodermatic  application 
of  cocaine  are  included  in  the  following : — 

Removal  of  tumors.  Injuries  and  operations  upon  the 

Docking  and  pricking  the  tail.  eyeball  and  eyelids. 

Tarsal  tenotomy.  Operations    about    the    feet    in 

Firing.  horses. 

Plantar  neurectomy.  Operations    upon    mucous    mem- 
Opening  of  abscess.  branes. 

The  alkaloid  may  also  be  employed  to  dilate  the  pupil 
for  examination  of  the  eye,  and  to  detect  lameness.  In  a 
case  of  doubtful  foot   lameness  in  the  horse,  injection  of 


COCAINE   HYDROCHLORATE  411 

cocaiue  iuto  the  plantar  nerve  trunk,  on  either  side  of  the 
leg  and  a  little  above  the  point  of  selection  for  plantar  neu- 
rectomy, will  often  completely  abolish  sensation  in  the  foot. 
This  fact  may  be  determined  by  pricking  the  soft  parts 
above  the  hoof.  If  there  is  complete  anaesthesia  of  the  foot, 
and  the  seat  of  lameness  be  situated  therein,  the  horse  will 
go  sound  while  the  anaesthesia  lasts.  This  method  may  be 
taken  advantage  of  in  the  diagnosis  of  localized  lameness 
elsewhere.  If  cocaine  is  injected  over  an  area  (suspected  to 
be  the  cause  of  lameness),  and  the  animal  goes  sound  while 
the  cocaine  anaesthesia  lasts,  the  site  of  lameness  becomes 
certain. 

It  has  been  discovered  that  injections  of  powerful 
cocaine  solutions  iuto  a  sensory  nerve  trunk  will  paralyze  its 
sensibility  throughout  its  peripheral  distribution  (regional 
anaesthesia).  When  ligation  of  a  limb,  or  part,  can  be 
secured  between  the  operative  field  and  the  heart,  the 
anaesthetic  action  of  cocaine  is  more  profound  and  toxic 
symptoms  are  less  liable  to  occur,  since  the  drug  is  drained 
away  in  the  blood  during  the  operation.  Many  operations 
can  be  performed  under  cocaine,  as  neurectomy,  firing, 
tenotomy,  etc.,  without  casting  the  horse.  In  using  cocaine 
for  the  removal  of  tumors,  or  opening  of  abscess,  the  solu- 
tion is  injected  at  several  points  in  a  circle  about  the  base 
of  the  tumor  or  abscess,  and  not  in  the  inflamed  tissue  of 
the  latter.  Following  the  first  injection,  the  succeeding 
applications  may  be  made  painless  by  inserting  the  needle 
within  the  area  made  anaesthetic  by  the  previous  injection 
(circumferential  anaesthesia). 

The  amount  of  cocaine  solution  to  be  injected  is  of 
importance.  This  depends  upon  the  strength  of  the  solu- 
tion, the  weight  and  species  of  the  animal,  and  the  seat  of 
application.  A  solution  stronger  than  4  per  cent,  is  irritat- 
ing to  the  eye.  The  stronger  cocaine  solutions  (5  to  10  per 
cent.)  are  more  powerful  paralyzants  to  the  sensory  nerves, 
and  are  advisable  when  they  can  be  used  with  safety,  bat  a 
4  or  2  per  cent.,  or  even  a  much  weaker  solution,  will  ordin- 


412  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

aiily  produce  anaesthesia  when  introduced  under  the  skin. 
In  the  horse,  subcutaneous  injection  of  a  5  or  10  per  cent, 
solution  may  be  made  to  the  amount  of  2  drachms  of  the 
former,  or  1  drachm  of  the  latter  solution  (cocaine,  gr.6). 
Larger  doses  may  induce  restlessness,  excitement,  etc., 
which,  although  not  indicative  of  danger,  may  interfere  with 
operative  procedures.  When  larger  quantities  are  desirable,- 
2§  drachms  of  a  4  per  cent,  solution,  or  5  drachms  of  a  2  per 
cent,  solution,  may  be  employed  (equivalent  to  6  grs.  of  the 
alkaloid),  or  Schleich's  solution  may  be  utilized.  Not  more 
than  7  to  15  drops  of  a  10  per  cent,  solution  should  be 
injected  into  dogs.  This  is  equivalent  to  gr.|  and  gr.lj  of 
the  alkaloid.  Three-quarters  of  a  grain  of  cocaine  is  a  safe 
limit  of  dosage  for  small  dogs.  If  a  2  or  4  per  cent,  solution 
is  employed,  30  M.  of  the  former,  or  15  M.  of  the  latter 
solution  (equivalejit  to  gr.f  of  cocaine)  may  be  injected. 
When  larger  amounts  of  the  anaesthetic  solution  are  in- 
dicated for  dogs,  Schleich's  method  of  infiltration  is  appro- 
priate (infiltration  anaesthesia). 

This  method  depends  upon  the  fact  that  the  pressure 
of  saline  solutions  injected  into  the  tissues  causes  a  benumb- 
ing of  the  sensory  nerves,  and  also  upon  the  anaesthetic 
action  of  minute  doses  of  cocaine  and  morphine.  Schleich's 
Bolution  may  be  iised  in  any  amount  and  can  be  made  con- 
veniently from  the  tablets  prepared  by  chemists.  The 
ordinaiy  solution  contains : 

1  part  of  cocaine  hydrochlorate. 

2  parts  of  common  salt. 

0.1  part  of  morphine  hydrochlorate. 
In  1 ,000  parts  of  sterile  water. 

Note. — Since  writing  the  above,  it  has  been  found  that  the  mor- 
phine in  Schleich's  solution  is  an  irritant  rather  than  a  local  anaesthetic, 
and  when  large  quantities  of  cocaine  or  eucaine  are  to  be  used  under 
the  skin — or  danger  is,  for  any  reason,  to  be  anticipated — the  writer 
would  strongly  advise  the  employment  of  a  normal  salt  solution  (gr.4 
sodium  chloride,  to  3  i.  of  water) ,  containing  from  ^  to  1  per  cent,  of 
cocaine  or  eucaine.  These  weaker  solutions  will  usually  cause  complete 
and  safe  local  anaesthesia. 


COUAliNJ::    Hi.DltOCHLOitATE  4i8 

Local  applications  to  mucous  membranes  may  be  reap- 
plied, once  or  twice,  at  intervals  of  five  minutes,  to  secure 
perfect  anaesthesia.  A  larger  quantity  of  cocaine  than  re- 
commended above  for  hypodermatic  use,  should  not  be 
employed.  Cocaine,  as  already  stated,  produces  a  primary 
astringent  action,  followed  by  secondary  irritation  and 
va>cular  relaxation;  yet,  when  properly  diluted  and  applied 
in  the  first  stage  of  inflammation,  it  may  prove  a  valuable 
abortive  and  sedative  agent. 

Haemorrhage  from  mucous  membranes  can  be  arrested 
by  its  topical  application ;  coryza  aborted,  and  haemorrhoids 
relieved  by  this  method.  Pruritus,  about  the  anus  and 
vagina,  is  allayed  by  cocaine.  In  relation  to  the  eye,  5  to 
10  drops  (horse)  of  cocaine  solution  (1  to  4  per  cent.)  are 
employed  for  various  purposes,  embracing  examination, 
removal  of  foreign  bodies,  operations,  and  the  relief  of 
suffering  in  acute  inflammation  resulting  from  natural  causes 
or  mechanical  irritation.  The  following  prescription  is  of 
value  in  superficial  inflammatory  and  painful  conditions  of 
the  eye : 

Cocainae  hydrochlor gr.v. 

Acid,  borici gr.x. 

Aq.  dest.  ad 5  i. 

M. 

S.     Instil  a  few  drops  into  the  eye  hourly. 

Injection  into  the  eyeball  is  preferable  to  instillation 
for  enucleation. 

Solutions  of  cocaine  should  be  freshly  made,  and  must 
not  be  sterilized  by  boiling,  although  they  should  be  made 
with  sterile  water,  or,  better,  normal  salt  solution.  The 
tablets  supplied  by  pharmaceutical  chemists  are  convenient 
for  hypodermatic  use.  Ten  grains  of  boric  acid  will  pre- 
serve an  ounce  of  cocaine  solution  for  a  month. 

Uses  Internal. — Cocaine  may  be  administered  in  aqueous 
solutions  for  the  relief  of  persistent  vomiting  in  dogs. 
Otherwise,  the  drug  finds  no  indication  in  veterinary  medi- 
cine.    The  alkaloid  is  occasionally  used   as  a  stimulating 


414  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

and  supporting  agent  in  asthenic  fevers  and  adynamic  con- 
ditions of  the  human  patient. 

The  most  wonderful  recent  advance  in  surgery  consists 
in  the  production  of  anaesthesia  in  the  lower  (posterior)  half 
of  the  body  by  injection  of  cocaine  solution  into  the  lumbar 
region  of  the  spinal  canal.  This  method  has  been  success- 
fully used  in  men  and  dogs  in  a  large  niimber  of  cases, 
rendering  parturition  and  operations  on  the  abdominal  and 
pelvic  organs  and  lower  (posterior)  extremities  painless. 
The  anaesthesia  lasts  one  to  five  hours,  and,  in  man,  from 
gr.^  to  gr.  J  of  cocaine  hydrochlorate  in  aqueous  solution  are 
injected  into  the  spinal  canal  between  the  fourth  and  fifth 
lumbar  vertebrae.  The  procedure  is  not  devoid  of  danger, 
and  in  man  is  frequently  followed  by  headache,  vomiting, 
sweating,  slight  chills  and  rise  of  temperature.  The  injection 
must  be  conducted  with  absolute  aseptic  precautions. 

EucAiN^  Hydbochloras.     Eucain  Hydrochlorate. 
C,,  H„  N  O,  H  CI.     (Non-official.) 

This  is  a  laboratory  product,  formerly  known  as  eucain 
Hydrochlorate  "B."  Eucain  is  used  in  2  per  cent,  aqueous 
solution  in  the  eye,  and  in  10  per  cent,  on  mucous  mem- 
branes, and  is  said  to  be  harmless  in  any  ordinary  amount. 
It  is  employed  as  a  substitute  for  cocaine  in  the  same 
manner  and  for  the  same  purposes,  but  with  the  following 
advantages : — 

Safer,  5  times  less  toxic.  Can  be  sterilized  by  boiling. 

Cheaper.  Less  irritating. 

Does  not  decompose  on  keeping  in  Does  not  dilate  the  pupil, 

solution.  Is  a  slight  antiseptic. 

Ophthalmologists  find  that  the  drug  does  dilate  the 
pupil  after  several  instillations,  and  that  it  does  irritate  the 
already  inflamed  eye.  It,  moreover,  does  not  contract  vessels 
when  locally  applied,  and  does  sometimes  produce  poisoning 
like  cocaine,  but  much  less  frequently. 


PILOCARPUS  415 

HOLOCAIN. 

This  is  a  synthetic  compound  allied  to  phenacetin,  and 
it  is  claimed  to  be  superior  to  cocaine  for  application  to  the 
eye.  The  anaesthetic  effect  appears  within  fifteen  seconds 
and  lasts  fifteen  minutes.  It  is  stated  that  holocain  produces 
no  local  irritation  of  the  eye,  nor  dilatation  of  the  pupil,  and 
does  possess  an  inherent  antiseptic  action.  One  to  two 
drops  of  a  one  per  cent,  solution  are  employed  to  anaesthe- 
tize the  eye.  Holocain  is  too  toxic  for  hypodermatic  appli- 
cation. 


SECTION  v.— DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE 
SECRETORY  NERVES. 

Class  1. — Pilocarpus  and  Pilocarpine. 

Pilocarpus.     Pilocarpus.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym, — Jaborandi,  B.  P.;  the  leaflets  of  Pilocarpus 
Selloanus  Engler  (Rio  Janeiro  Jaborandi),  and  of  Pilocarpus 
Jaborandi  Holmes  (Pernambuco  Jaborandi,  nat.  ord.  Ruta- 
ceae). 

Habitat. — Brazil,  in  the  neighborhood  of  Pernambuco. 

Descrqjtion. — About  10  to  15  cm.  long,  and  4  to  6  cm. 
broad ;  short  stalked,  oval  or  ovate-oblong,  entire  and  slightly 
revolute  at  the  margin,  obtuse  and  emarginate,  unequal  at 
the  base,  dull  green,  coriaceous,  pellucid-punctate,  mostly 
smooth;  when  bruised,  slightly  aromatic;  taste  somewhat 
bitter  and  pungent 

Constituents. — 1.  Pilocarpine,  CnHigNjOa  (.25-. 5  per  cent.), 
is  the  alkaloid  to  which  jaborandi  owes  its  principal  effect. 

2.  Jaborine,  CaaHggN^O^,  an  alkaloid  resembling  atropine  in 
its  action  on  the  heart,  pupils,  intestines  and  salivary  glands. 
It  occurs  occasionally  as  an  impurity  in  commercial  pilocar- 
pine, to  which  it  is  antagonistic.     It  is  soluble  in  alcohol. 

3.  Pilocarpidine,  CjoHi^NaOa,  an  alkaloidal   product  of  the 


416  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

decomposition  of  pilocarpine,  which  it  resembles  in  action, 
but  is  weaker.  It  is  soluble  in  alcohol.  4.  Jaborandine  is 
another  alkaloid  resulting  from  the  decomposition  of  pilo- 
carpine, and  is  similar  to  atropine.  These  atropine-like 
principles  are  never  present  in  sufficient  quantity  to  wholly 
antagonize  the  predominant  action  of  pilocarpine  in  jabor- 
andi.     5.  A  peculiar  acid.     6.  A  volatile  oil. 

Dose.—K.  &  C,  3ii.-iv..(8.-15.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  «3.-i.  (2.-4.); 
D.,gr.v.-3i.  (.3-4.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Pilocarpi  Fluidum.    Fluid  Extract  of  Pilocarpus. 
(U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  diluted  alcohol,  and 
evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 

Dose.-n.  &  C,  3ii-iv.  (8.-15.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.);  D., 
mv.-  3  i.  (.3-4.). 

Extractum  Jahorandi.     (B.  P.) 
Dose.— H.,  gr.xl.-  3  i.ss.  (2.6-6.);  D. ,  gr.ii.-x  (.  12-.6). 

PiLOCARPiNiE  Hydrochloras.     Pilocarpine  Hydrochlorate. 
C„  H,,  N,  O,  H  CI.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Derivation. — The  hydrochlorate  of  an  alkaloid  obtained 
from  pilocarpus,  with  alcohol  and  hydrochloric  acid  by  dis- 
tillation and  evaporation.  The  residue  is  dissolved  in  a 
slight  excess  of  ammonia  and  chloroform,  shaken  with  water, 
and  neutralized  with  hydrochloric  acid.  Crystals  of  the 
hydrochlorate  form  on  evaporation.  The  salt  is  purified  by 
recrystallization. 

PropeHies. — Small,  white  crystals,  odorless  and  having 
a  faintly  bitter  taste ;  deliquescent  on  exposure  to  damp  air. 
Very  soluble  in  water  and  in  alcohol ;  almost  insoluble  in 
ether  or  in  chloroform. 

Dose. — H.,  sialogogue,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.  12);  cathartic,  gr.ii.-v. 
(.12-. 3);  C,  cathartic,  gr.v.-x.  (.3-.6) ;  H.,  diarphoretic. 
gr.vi -xii.  (.36-. 72),  dangerous;  Sh.,  gr.i.  (.06);  D.,  gi.^V"! 
(.006-.02). 


ACTION   OF  PILOCARPUS   AND   PILOCARPINE  4    7 

Pilocarpine  Nitras.     Pilocarpine  Nitrate.     (B.  P.) 
Dosfi, — Same  as  for  hydrochlorate. 

ACTION  OF  pilocarpus  AND  PILOCARPINE. 

Interned.  —  Alimentary  Caned.  —  Pilocarpine  increases 
enormously  salivary  secretion,  and,  in  a  less  degree,  the 
gastric  and  intestinal  secretions.  It  stimulates  peristaltic 
action  of  the  stomach  and  bowels  as  well,  and  acts  as  a  pur- 
gative. Salivation  is  due  to  direct  excitation  of  the  secre- 
tory nerve  (chorda  tympani)  endings  and  the  gland  cells. 
Salivation  occurs  when  pilocarpine  is  injected  into  the  gland 
and  prevented  from  entering  the  general  circulation ;  also 
when  the  secretory  nerves  are  severed.  The  action  on  the 
salivary  glands  is  set  aside  by  atropine.  The  parotid,  sub- 
maxillary, and  sublingual  glands,  become  somewhat  tense 
and  tender  under  the  influence  of  pilocarpine,*  and  the  saliva 
is  rich  in  salts  and  ptyaline,  and  contains  a  slight  excess  of 
urea.  Thn  unstriped  muscle  of  the  stomach  and  intestines 
is  stimulated  by  pilocarpine  through  its  action  on  the  effer- 
ent nerve  endings  and  muscular  tissue. 

Circulation.  —  Pilocarpine  is  absorbed,  but  exerts  no 
action  on  the  blood.  In  toxic  doses  the  alkaloid  is  a  heart 
depressant,  but  in  moderate  amount  slows  the  pulse  rate. 
In  man  the  pulse  is  quick  and  the  blood  tension  lowered. 
The  effect  on  the  domestic  animals  is  probably  due  to 
stimulation  of  the  peripheral  vagi  or  inhibitory  cardiac 
ganglia,  although  Ringer's  experiments  proved  that  the 
ventricular  contractions  of  the  frog's  heart  were  slowed  by 
pilocarpine  when  freed  from  the  inhibitory  ganglia,  and  h-^ 
attributes  its  action  to  stimulation  of  the  heart  muscle  jind 
motor  ganglia  situated  therein.  In  poisoning,  the  heart  is 
enfeebled  and  slow,  and  there  is  vasomotor  paralysis.  Atro- 
pine antagonizes  the  action  of  pilocarpine  on  the  heart. 

Respiration. — The  respiration"  is  not  directly  affected  by 
the  drug,  but  the  bronchial  secretions  are  greatly  increased, 
and  in  poisoning  there  are,  in  consequence,  oedema  of  the 
lungs  and  dyspnoea. 


418  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

Nervous  System  and  Micsdes. — Medicinal  doses  do  not 
cause  any  functional  disturbance  of  the  nervous  system,  but 
very  large  doses  excite  the  spinal  motor  tract  and  reflex 
centres  and  cause  convulsions  in  frogs,  succeeded  by  spinal 
depression  and  paralysis.  The  latter  is  due  in  part  to  an 
influence  on  the  muscles  themselves.  Tremors  occur  occa- 
sionally in  man  and  the  domestic  animals  in  poisoning. 
The  nerves  escape  unscathed.  The  involuntary  muscles  are 
stimulated  throughout  the  body,  owing  to  the  direct  action 
of  the  drug  upon  them  and  their  motor  nerve  terminations. 

Skin. — Moderate  doses  of  pilocarpine  stimulate  but 
slightly  the  secretion  of  sweat  in  the  lower  animals,  but  in 
man  the  secretion  is  enormous  (1  pt.).  The  salivary  secre- 
tion appears  to  supplant  that  of  the  skin  in  the  domestic 
animals,  unless  very  large  doses  are  employed  (H.,  gr.vii.- 
xii.),  which  cause  diarrhoea,  salivation  and  loss  of  body 
weight  (40  to  60  lbs.),  and  may  entail  pulmonary  oedema 
and  heart  failure.  The  secretory  nerve  terminations  and 
glandular  cells  are  both  stimulated.  The  secretion  of  tears, 
nasal  mucus  and  milk  are  slightly  increased  in  the  same 
manner,  and  the  growth  of  hair  is  rendered  more  luxurious. 

Temperature. — The  temperature  is  reduced  by  evapora- 
tion from  the  skin,  if  there  is  much  sweating. 

Genito  Urinary  Organs. — Pilocarpine  exerts  a  slight  and 
uncertain  oxytocic  action  on  the  pregnant  uterus  and  has 
sometimes  precipitated  parturition  in  pregnant  animals  at 
full  term.  The  unstriped  muscle  of  the  spleen  and  bladder 
is  stimulated,  and  micturition  is  frequent.  Pilocarpine,  in 
repeated  small  doses,  augments  the  flow  of  urine  and  prob- 
ably increases  tissue  waste  and  the  excretion  of  urea  by  its 
general  action  on  the  secretions.  It  is  eliminated  unchanged 
in  the  urine. 

Eye. — Pilocarpine  contracts  the  pupil  when  applied  to 
the  eye;  it  also  increases  tension  of  the  eyeball  and  impairs 
the  sight  temporarily,  owing  to  action  on  the  retina.  The 
myosis  is  due  to  stimulation  of  the  peripheral  oculomotor 
nerve  endings.     When  the  alkaloid  is  given  internally  it 


ACTION  OF  PILOCARPUS  AND  PILOCARPINE        419 

may  contract  the  pupil,  but  jaborandi,  or  the  fluid  extract, 
are  less  likely  to  do  so  on  account  of  the  opposing  •  alkaloid 
(jaborine),  which  tends  to  dilate  the  pupil. 

Summary. — Pilocarpine  possesses  two  important  actions. 
1.  To  increase  secretions  (stomach,  intestines,  salivary  glands, 
sudoriparous,  lachrymal  and  mammary  glands,  kidneys, 
bronchial  and  nasal  mucous  membranes,  aud  ear).  2.  To 
stimulate  the  involuntary  muscles  (  stomach,  intestines, 
heart,  uterus,  bladder,  spleen,  vessels  and  iris  ).  Both 
actions  are  peripheral  and  are  probably  exerted  on  the 
gland  cells  and  muscle  fibres,  as  well  as  on  the  efferent 
nerve  terminations. 

Administrotioi}. — Pilocarpine  is  given  usually  when  an 
immediate  effect  is  desired.  Therefore  the  hydrochlorate 
or  nitrate  are  employed  subcutaneously.  If  prescribed  in 
combination  with  eserine,  the  sulphate  of  both  alkaloids 
may  be  used,  or  eserine  sulphate  and  pilocarpine  hydro- 
chlorate  may  be  injected  separately. 

Toxicology. — Symptoms  appear  in  five  or  ten  minutes 
after  the  subcutaneous  injection  of  pilocarpine,  and  in  fifteen 
to  twenty  minutes  after  the  injection  of  jaborandi.  Saliva- 
tion alone  occurs  after  small  doses,  but  with  toxic  quantities 
there  are  present  salivation,  accompanied  by  more  or  less 
sweating,  intestinal  colic,  purging  and  perhaps  vomiting,  a 
slow,  weak  pulse,  and  dyspnoea.  Muscular  tremors  are 
observed  sometimes  in  man,  and  convulsions  in  frogs,  but 
spasmodic  movements  are  uncommon  in  the  domestic  ani- 
mals. Dogs  have  been  killed  by  gr.J  of  pilocarpine.  The 
administration  of  an  amount  larger  than  5  grs.  of  the  alkal- 
oid to  horses,  subcutaneously,  is  attended  with  danger. 
Atropine  is  the  physiological  antagonist  of  pilocarpine  in 
relation  to  the  heart,  secretions,  pupils,  and,  in  large  doses, 
probably  to  the  intestines. 

Atropine  should  be  given  along  with  alcoholic  stimu- 
lants, or  ammonia,  in  jaborandi  or  pilocarpine  poisoning. 

Uses  Internal. — The  chief  value  of  pilocarpine  in  veteri- 
nary medicine  consists  in  its  use  as  a  purgative  to  stimulate 


420  VEGETABLE   DRLGS 

secretion,  and,  to  a  certain  extent,  peristaltic  action — in 
combination  with  pliysostigmine  (vid.  "Physostigmine") — in 
obstinate  constipation  of  horses.  It  is  also  given  in  colic, 
and  in  obstruction  from  twist  and  intussusception,  with 
physostigniine.  The  alkaloid  is  a  good  substitute  for  eserine 
for  application  to  the  eye  (in  1  or  2  per  cent  solution),  and 
is  less  painful.  Pilocarpine  is  the  most  efficient  antidote  to 
atropine,  and  should  be  administered  in  amount  equal  to  4 
times  that  of  atropine.  Jaborandi  is  employed  to  remove 
waste  matters  from  the  blood  and  system  (urea  and  effu- 
sions), but  is  of  little  value  in  veterinary  practice,  compared 
with  its  efficiency  in  human  medicine,  on  account  of  its 
feeble  sudorific  action.  It  has  been  recommended  in  dropsy 
of  cardiac  origin,  not  uncommon  in  dogs,  but  is  dangerous, 
since  it  tends  to  produce  pulmonary  oedema  and  heart  weak- 
ness. For  the  same  reason  it  is  inadvisable  in  pleuritic 
effusions  and  renal  dropsy,  and  in  all  three  conditions  it  i& 
inferior  to  purgatives.  Pilocarpine  is  highly  recommended, 
by  the  Germans  in  cerebral  and  spinal  meningitis,  to  assist 
absorption  of  effusion.  Pilocarpine  stimulates  the  skin  in 
its  elimination,  and  is  sometimes  of  service  in  chronic  ec- 
zema, psoriasis,  prurigo,  and  chronic  urticaria.  It  is  recom- 
mended in  chronic  rheumatism  as  an  eliminative,  and  in 
acute  inflammation  of  the  brain,  and  in  laminitis  without 
rational  basis.  Small  doses  of  pilocarpine  have  been  em- 
ployed successfully  to  stimulate  a  failing  milk  secretion,  and 
to  prevent  excessive  sweating  in  general  debility.  Jaborjindi 
relieves  dry  throat  and  excessive  thirst.  Obesity,  in  robust 
dogs,  may  be  treated  with  pilocarpine  under  the  ^kin,  in 
one-half  grain  doses  daily.  Success  sometimes  attends  tliis 
method.  The  drug  is  contraindicated  when  there  is  impair- 
ment of  the  respiratory  functions,  a  weak  or  fatty  heart,  and 
in  unconsciousness,  when  excessive  secretion  may  obstruct 
the  air  passages. 


DIGITALIS  421 

SECTION  YL— DKUGS  ACTING  ON  THE  HEART. 

Class  1.— Increasing  the  Force  and  Decreasing  the 
Frequency  of  the  Heart. 

Digitalis.     Digitalis. 

Synonym.  —  Digitalis  folia,  B.  P.;  foxglove,  digitalis 
leaves,  E.;  digitale,  feuilles  de  digitale  pourpree  (de  graude 
digitale),  Fr.;  fingerhutkraut,  G. 

The  leaves  of  Digitalis  purpurea  Linne  (nat.  ord.  scro- 
phularinese),  collected  from  plants  of  the  second  year's 
growth. 

Description. — From  10  to  50  cm.  long ;  ovate  or  ovate- 
oblong,  narrowed  into  a  petiole,  crenate,  dull  green,  densely 
and  finely  pubescent,  wrinkled  above,  paler  and  reticulate 
beneath,  midrib  near  the  base  broad;  odor  slight,  some- 
what tea-like ;  taste  bitter,  nauseous. 

Constituents. — The  active  principles  of  digitalis  are  four 
glucosides  ;  the  three  first  represent  its  stimulant  action. 
1.  Digitoxin,  the  most  poisonous  and  active.  Said  to  be 
cumulative.  It  occurs  in  crystals,  soluble  in  alcohol  and 
chloroform,  slightly  in  ether,  and  insoluble  in  water.  2. 
Digitalein,  an  amorphous,  bitter  substance,  soluble  in  water 
and  alcohol  and  non-cumulative.  Dose. — H.,  gr.J-J  (.008- 
.015);  D.,  gi-.-ri^  (.0006). 

3.  Digitaliu,  a  bitter,  crystalline  body,  soluble  in  alcohol, 
and  sparingly  soluble  in  water  and  ether.  4.  Digitonin, 
C27  H^4  Oi3,  resembling,  or  identical  with,  saponin  of  senega. 
Soluble  in  water.  It  is  a  heart  depressant,  muscular  para- 
lyzant and  powerful  irritant,  besides  being  antagonistic  to 
digitalis.  In  addition  to  these  principles,  there  are : 
5.  Digitiu,  an  inert  body.  6.  Digitalic  and  antirrhinic 
acids.  7.  Tannin,  coloring  matters,  starch,  ^-^v;^- -.'>',  gum,  a 
volatile  oil,  salts,  etc.jOommon  to  most  vegetabl-s. 

Two  substances  are  found  in  commerce  :  1 .  N.itivelle's 
digitalin,  C25H40O15,  occurring  in  white  crystalli:jo  tufts  com- 


422  YEGETABLE  DRUGS 

posed  of  needles.  It  is  bitter,  and  soluble  in  alcohol  and 
chloroform  ;  insoluble  in  water  or  ether.  It  contains  digi- 
toxin,  digitalin,  digitalein  and  digitonin,  but  mainly  digi- 
toxin,  and  is  cumulative.  Dose. — H.  &  C,  gr.j-J  (.015. 03); 
I>-.gi--A-^V  (-001-002). 

2.  HomoUe's  or  Quevenne's  digitalin,  an  amorphous, 
whitish  powder,  or  small  scales;  very  bitter,  inodorous,  and 
soluble  in  2,000  parts  of  water.  It  is  composed  largely  of 
digitalin,  with  a  little  digi toxin.  Dose, — H.  &  C,  gr.j  (.015) 
=  gr.22i-  of  digitalis  leaves;  D.,  gr.^V'A  (-001-. 002)  = 
gr.lJ-3  of  digitalis  leaves. 

Neither  Nativelle's  nor  Homolle's  digitalin  form  a  com- 
plete substitute  for  digitalis,  and  their  use  is  not  recom- 
mended. Schmiedeberg's  digitalin  is,  however,  said  to  be  a 
reliable  substitute,  by  eminent  authority. 

IncompatihUity. — Digitalis  is  incompatible  with  tannic 
acid,  lead  acetate,  cinchona  and  ferric  salts. 

Digitalis  Folia  Dose. — H.,  gr.x.-3i.  (.6-.4);  C,  3  ss.-i.ss. 
(2.-6.);  Sh.  <fe  Sw.,  gr.v.-xv.  (.3-1.);  D.,  gr.ss.-iii.  (.03-.2). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Digitalis.     Extract  of  Digitalis.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol  and  water;  dis- 
tillation of  the  alcohol  and  evaporation  to  pilular  consistence. 
Dose.— H.  &C.,  gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3);  D.,  gr.i-1.  (.008-.06). 

Extractum  Digitalis  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Digitalis.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol  and  water,  and 

evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 

Dose.— H.,  mx.-  3  i.  (.6-4.);  C,  3  ss.-i.ss.  (2.-6.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  nv.-xv. 

(.3-1.);  D.,  mss.-iii.  (.03-.2). 

Tinctura  Digitalis.     Tincture  of  Digitalis.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  powdered  digitalis  (150), 

with  sufficicient  alcohol  and  water  to  make  1,000.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  3ii.-vi,  (8.-24.);  Sh.  &Sw.,  rnxxx.- 3  i.ss.  (2.-6.); 

D.,  mv.-xxx.  (3-2.). 

Infusum  Digitalis.     Infusion  of  Digitalis.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Digitalis,  15;  alcohol,  100;   cinnamon  water,  150;   boiling  water, 
500;  cold  water  to  make  1,000.     By  maceration.     (U.  S.  P.) 


ACTION   OF  DIGITALIS  423 

Dose.— H.  &a,  lii.-vi.  (60.-180.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  §  ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  D., 
3  i.-iv.  (4.-15.). 

ACTION   OF  DIGITALIS. 

External. — None. 

Internal. — Alimentary  Canal. — Digitalis  in  large  doses  is 
a  gasiffo-intestinal  irritant,  and  in  poisoning  causes  nausea, 
colic,  purging,  and  vomiting  in  animals  capable  of  the  act. 

Circulation. — The  dominant  action  of  digitalis  is  ex- 
pended upon  the  heart  and  blood  vessels.  After  medicinal 
doses  we  find  the  pulse  becomes :  1.  Slower.  2.  Fuller  and 
stronger.  3.  More  regular  in  rhythm,  if  previously  irregu- 
lar. In  poisoning,  these  phenomena  are  reversed  and  the 
pulse  is  :  1.  Eapid.  2.  Weak.  3.  Irregular.  The  thera- 
peutic effects  following  moderate  doses  are  due  to:  1. 
Stimulation  of  the  heart  muscle,  and  perhaps  its  con- 
tained ganglia  (pulse  stronger  and  somewhat  less  frequent). 
2.  Excitation  of  the  vagus  centre  and  the  vagus  cardiac 
terminations  (pulse  infrequent).  3.  Stimulation  of  the  mus- 
cular walls  of  the  vessels  and  vasomotor  centres  (increased 
vascular  tension).  The  tension  is  also  augmented  by  the 
greater  force  of  the  heart  beat,  and,  on  the  other  hand, 
the  heart  is  slowed  in  overcoming  the  increased  resistance 
in  the  vessels.  In  consequence  of  the  action  on  the  heart 
the  ventricular  contractions  are  complete  and  forcible,  and 
the  diastolic  period  is  lengthened;  therefore,  more  blood 
enters  the  viscus  and  more  is  squeezed  out  with  each  con- 
traction. The  systolic  period  is  unaltered.  Furthermore, 
the  nutrition  of  the  heart  is  thought  to  be  promoted  by: 
1.  Increase  of  its  blood  supply  during  the  prolonged  dia- 
stole. 2.  Stimulation  of  the  trophic  nerves  (vagi?)  of  the 
heart.  As  diastole  is  the  rest  period  of  the  heart,  increasing 
it  conserves  the  strength  of  the  organ.  In  poisoning,  the 
symptoms  noted  above  follow:  1.  Paralysis  of  the  peri- 
pheral vagi  (pulse  rapid).  2.  Insufficient  filling  of  the  vessels 
and  paralysis  of  the  vessel  walls  (low  tension).  3.  Forcible 
contractions  contending  against  prolonged  dilatation  of  the 


424  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

ventricles  (pulse  irregular).  At  one  time  the  heart  beats 
slowly  and  weakly  because  the  heart  muscle  can  scarcely 
overcome  the  tendency  of  the  excited  vagi  to  cause  ventri- 
cular dilatation ;  at  another  time  the  heart  beats  rapidly  and 
siroi!g]y,when  powerful  systolic  contractions  overmaster  the 
inhibitory  influence  of  the  vagi.  The  heart,  during  this 
irregular  toxic  period,  is  seen  to  be  unequally  affected,  in 
that  one  portion  (the  apex)  may  be  firmly  contracted  while 
the  rest  of  the  ventricle  is  dilated.  Moreover,  the  auricles 
and  ventricles  do  not  act  synchronously  and  the  heart 
assumes  various  peculiar  shapes  (hour-glass,  etc.).  Death 
usually  occurs  from  cardiac  arrest  in  systole,  in  which  con- 
dition it  remains  pale,  firm  and  contracted,  and  unresponsive 
to  mechanical  or  electrical  stimulation  Rarely  (men  and 
dogs)  the  heart  stops  in  diastole.  The  action  of  digitalis  on 
the  heart  is  more  pronounced  in  dogs  and  sheep  than  in 
horses  and  cattle.  The  characteristic  effect  of  digitalis  is 
observed  when  it  is  applied  locally  to  the  isolated  nerve- 
free  apex,  or  when  the  vagi  are  previously  cut  or  paralyzed 
by  atropine,  and  when  the  spinal  cord  is  destroyed.  These 
facts  show  that  the  heart  muscle  is  influenced.  That  the 
peripheral  vagi  are  stimulated,  is  shown  by  the  fact 
that  an  amount  of  galvanic  stimulation  of  the  vagi, 
ineffective  before  poisoning,  will,  after  exhibition  of  digi- 
talis, cause  diastolic  arrest  of  the  heart.  In  regard  to  the 
vessels,  experiments  conducted  on  the  terrapin  exhibit  the 
fact  that  when  the  vessels  are  deprived  of  their  nerve 
supply,  the  heart  excised,  and  an  artificial  circulation  sub- 
stituted, even  then  vascular  contraction  and  retardation  of 
flow  will  occur  under  the  influence  of  digitalin  added  to  the 
factitious  blood.  The  resultant  of  the  various  actions  of 
medicinal  doses  of  digitalis  is  increased  work  of  the  heart, 
so  that  more  blood  is  pumped  throughout  the  body  in  any 
given  unit  of  time. 

Respiration.  —  The  respiratory  centres  are  unaffected 
save  by  toxic  doses,  and  then  through  insufficient  blood 
supply,  when  the  respiration  becomes  weak  and  imperfect. 


ACTION   OF  DIGITALIS  425 

Nervous  System  and  Muscles. — These  are  not  influenced 
b}'  therapeutic  doses  of  digitalis.  Toxic  quantities  cause 
]oss  of  reflex  action,  muscular  wenkness,  and  convulsions  in 
the  frog.  The  first  two  phenomena  are  due  to  primary 
stimulation  of  the  inhibitory  reflex  centres  of  Setschenow  in 
the  medulla,  followed  by  general  paralysis  of  the  spinal 
cord,  and  direct  depression  of  the  motor  nerves  and  muscles ; 
while  the  convulsions  are  caused  by  circulatory  changes  in 
the  base  of  the  brain  dependant  upon  the  embarrassed 
heart. 

Temperature. — The  temperature  is  unaffected  by  medi- 
cinal doses.  Toxic  doses  reduce  temperature.  Fever  is 
lowered  by  large  doses  of  digitalis,  but  it  is  rarely  safe  to 
use  the  drug  as  an  antipyretic.  Moreover,  digitalis  is  some- 
times inoperative  as  a  heart  stimulant  in  fever,  because  the 
functional  activity  of  the  vagus  centres  and  peripheral 
terminations  is  depressed  and  insensitive  to  the  action  of 
the  drug. 

Kidneys. — Metabolism  and  Elimination. — The  influence  of 
digitalis  on  the  amount  of  urinary  secretion  is  uncertain.  It 
has  no  special  action  upon  the  mucous  membrane  or  secret- 
ing cells  of  the  kidney.  If  general  vascular  tension  is  low- 
ered (cardiac  disease),  digitalis  will  exert  a  diuretic  action 
in  consequence  of  increasing  blood  pressure.  As  a  rule,  it 
may  be  stated  that  if  digitalis  increases  the  systemic  vascul.ir 
tension  more  than  that  of  the  kidney,  diuresis  follows.  The 
effect  of  digitalis  on  tissue  waste  is  uncertain  and  the  mode 
of  its  elimination  is  unknown.  Experiments  relative  to  the 
composition  of  the  urine  are  conflicting.  The  smooth  mnscle 
of  the  uterus  is  said  to  be  stimulated  to  contraction  by  digi- 
talis. 

Cumulative  Action. — Digitalis  and  strychnine  are  said  to 
be  cumulative  in  their  action.  Evidence  is  stronger  in  the 
case  of  the  former  drug  than  in  that  of  the  latter.  By  cumu- 
lative action  is  meant  sudden  transition  from  a  therapeutic 
to  a  toxic  effect.  This  may  be  due  to  three  causes.  1.  Tardy 
absorption.     2.  Increasing  susceptibility.    3.  Delayed  elim- 


4^16  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

ination  and  accamulation  of  the  drug  in  the  system.  The 
cumulative  action  of  digitalis  is  chiefly  due  to  the  latter 
cause.  It  should  never  be  administered  in  full  medicinal 
doses  uninterruptedly  for  any  considerable  length  of  time. 

Toxicology.  —  Poisoning  may  occur  from  large  single 
doses  within  3  to  10  hours  of  their  ingestion,  and  last  for  16 
or  more  hours  with  a  fatal  result;  or  may  appear  suddenly 
after  the  administration  for  several  days  of  large  medicinal 
doses  (cumulative  action).  A  minimum  fatal  dose  for  the 
horse  is  about  3  vi.  of  digitalis,  or  gr.i.ss.  of  Homolle's  digi- 
talin.  For  dogs,  3  i-  of  digitalis,  or  gr.^  of  digitalin.  The 
symptoms  exhibited  are  chiefly  concerned  with  the  digestion 
and  circulation.  They  consist  in  dulness,  lassitude,  loss  of 
appetite,  nausea,  flatulence,  diarrhoea,  infrequent,  full  pulse 
(reduced  6-10  beats  in  the  horse),  and  contracted  pupils. 
There  is  vomiting  in  dogs.  In  fatal  cases  these  symptoms 
are  followed  by  severe  colic  and  tympanites;  rapid,  feeble, 
dicrotic,  irregular  or  intermittent  pulse  (120-140  in  horses), 
while  the  heart  may  be  heard  and  felt  beating  wildly  and 
strongly,  and  a  systolic  blowing  murmur  can  frequently  be 
detected.  This  is  due  to  mitral  or  tricuspid  regurgitation 
caused  by  irregular  contraction  of  the  columnse  carnse.  The 
pulse  is  imperceptible  because  of  the  failure  of  the  heart 
to  fill  the  vessels.  The  extremities  are  cold,  the  eye  is  pro- 
truding, and  salivation  occurs.  Bloody  diarrhoea  is  very 
often  present  and  the  urine  may  be  suppressed.  The  breath- 
ing finally  becomes  difficult  and  death  ensues  within  a  few 
hours,  or  as  late  as  several  days. 

Treatment  —  Evacuation  of  the  stomach  and  bowels. 
Tannic  acid,  as  a  chemical  antidote,  alcohol,  opium,  and 
aconite,  which  is  the  physiological  antagonist  in  depressing 
the  action  of  the  heart  and  lowering  blood  tension.  In 
addition,  external  heat  should  be  applied  and  complete 
quiet  and  rest  secured. 

Administration.  — ■  In  view  of  its  slow  absorption  and 
elimination  digitalis  should  not  be  given  oftener  than  once 
in  six,  eight,  or  even  twelve  hours.     Very  large  doses  may 


USES    OF    DIGITALIS  427 

be  given,  however,  repeatedly,  in  case  of  threatened  heart 
failure,  by  the  subcutaneous  method.  The  appearance  of 
indigestion,  nausea  or  dulness,  and  a  decided  fall  in  the 
pulse  rate,  should  be  a  warning  to  stop  the  administration 
at  once.  The  best  preparations  are  the  tincture,  infusion, 
and  fluid  extract.  The  former  may  be  injected  deep  into 
the  muscle  to  avoid  abscess. 

Uses  External. — Digitalis  is  occasionally  employed  as  a 
poultice  of  the  leaves,  applied  over  the  loins  to  promote 
diuresis,  or  in  local  inflammation,  to  contract  vessels. 

Uses  Internal. — Digitalis  is  a  heart  stimulant,  although 
sometimes  classified  as  a  heart  depressant.  It  may, 
however,  exert  a  sedative  eff'ect  upon  a  weak,  rapid, 
irregular  heart,  by  increasing  the  inhibitory  and  mus- 
cular power.  Digitalis  is  indicated:  (1)  In  all  conditions 
where  the  heart  is  weak,  irregular  or  intermittent,  and  the 
circulation  sluggish;  (2)  as  a  diuretic,  chiefly  in  dropsy 
secondary  to  cardiac  disease,  but  also  in  that  of  renal 
origin ;  digitalis  has  also  b.een  used  (3)  as  a  haemostatic  in 
internal  haemorrhage,  and  (4)  to  reduce  temperature  in 
fever;  but,  in  both  of  the  last  two  instances,  with  question- 
able advantage. 

1.  In  syncope  following  disease,  shock,  injury  or  poison- 
ing (aconite),  digitalis  is  invaluable  when  injected  subcutan- 
eously  together  with  alcoholic  stimulants.  In  acute  diseases, 
digitalis  is  one  of  the  most  generally  serviceable  stimulants. 
The  drug  is  peculiarly  applicable  in  the  second  stage  of 
pneumonia,  because  it  strengthens  the  right  ventricle,  forces 
the  blood  through  the  obstructed  lung,  and  prevents  sys- 
temic venous  engorgement  and  arterial  anaemia.  In  other 
words,  it  equalizes  the  circulation.  Moreover,  in  stimulating 
the  peripheral  vagi,  digitalis  improves  the  tone  of  the 
bronchioles  and  prevents  collapse  of  the  air  vesicles,  and, 
by  the  same  action,  steadies  the  rhythm  of  the  breathing. 
The  drug  is  likewise  an  efficient  circulatory  stimulant  in 
influenza  of  horses  and  distemper  of  dogs.  Digitalis  is 
frequently  prescribed  in  chronic  bronchitis  and  emphysema, 


428  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

to  strengthen  the  heart  and  obviate  passive  pulmonary  con- 
gestion and  cough.  Valvular  disease  of  the  heart,  in  its 
various  phases,  is  the  most  common  field  of  usefulness  for 
digitalis  in  human  medicine,  but  in  veterinary  practice  these 
disorders  are  rarer  and  the  exact  lesion  difficult  or  impos- 
sible to  diagnose.  In  mitral  stenosis  and  regurgitation  and 
aortic  stenosis,  with  lack  of  compensatory  hypertrophy  of 
the  heart  and  evidence  of  circulatory  disturbances,  digitalis 
is  clearly  indicated.  In  these  conditions  the  drug  enables 
the  heart  to  pump  more  blood  into  the  arteries  and  prevents 
engorgement  of  the  right  heart  and  veins  and  the  occurrence 
of  dropsy.  Digitalis  is  counter-indicated  in  aortic  insuffi- 
ciency, because  in  prolonging  diastole  it  allows  more  time 
for  the  blood  to  flow  back  from  the  aorta  through  the  leaky 
valve  into  the  ventricle.  As  a  general  proposition,  digitalis 
is  inferior  to  aconite  in  simple  cardiac  hypertrophy.  But 
this  does  not  apply  when  enlargement  of  the  heart  is  insuffi- 
cient to  compensate  for  valvular  lesions. 

Digitalis  is  extremely  successful  in  palpitation  of  the 
heart  (horses)  following  over-exertion,  but  is  not  appropriate 
in  palpitation  due  to  nervousness  (dogs),  or  to  indigestion. 
Digitalis  may  be  exhibited  to  advantage  in  rheumatic  fever 
and  in  endocarditis  or  pericarditis  to  quiet  the  heart  and 
secure  rest  by  prolonging  diastole. 

2.  Digitalis  is  a  valuable  diuretic  in  dropsy  of  cardiac 
origin  (dogs),  by  stimulating  the  heart  and  overcoming 
venous  stasis  in  the  kidneys  and  elsewhere.  It  is  often 
desirable  to  combine  iron  preparations  with  digitalis.  Tur- 
bidity results  from  the  action  of  iron  on  the  tannic  acid 
contained  in  digitalis  when  in  solution,  but  this  can  be  re- 
moved by  the  addition  of  a  little  diluted  phosphoric  acid. 

3.  Since  digitalis  contracts  the  uterus  and  blood  vessels, 
it  has  been  prescribed  in  uterine  haemorrhage,  and  to  stop 
bleeding  from  other  internal  parts  ;  but  it  is  inferior  to  ergot 
on  account  of  the  general  rise  of  blood  tension.  Haemoptysis, 
due  to  passive  congestion  of  the  lungs  in  mitral  disease,  is 
relieved  by  digitalis. 


STROPHANTHUS  429 

4.  The  use  of  digitalis  in  large  doses  as  an  antipyretic 
in  fevers  is  not  without  danger  and  is  inadvisable. 

Strophanthus.     Strophanthus, 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

The  seed  of  Strophanthus  hispidus  De  Candolle  (nat.  ord. 
Apocynaceae),  deprived  of  its  long  awn. 

Habitat. — Tropical  Africa.  There  are  eighteen  species, 
and  the  seeds  from  at  least  two  are  found  in  commerce. 
This  has  led  to  some  confusion,  as  the  chemical  and  physio- 
logical properties  of  their  different  products  vary  to  some 
extent. 

Description. — About  15  Mm.  long  and  4  or  5  Mm.  broad ; 
oblong-lanceolate,  flattened  and  obtusely  edged,  grayish- 
green,  covered  with  appressed,  silky  hair,  one  side  with  a 
ridge  extending  into  the  attenuated,  pointed  end ;  kernel 
white  and  oily,  consisting  of  a  straight  embryo,  having  two 
thin  cotyledons,  and  surrounded  by  a  thin  layer  of  peris- 
perm  ;  nearly  inodorous  ;  taste  very  bitter. 

Constitmnts. — The  chief  one  is  (1)  Strophanthiu,  C31  H.g 
O12  (8-10  per  cent.),  a  glucoside  occurring  in  white,  trans- 
parent crystals,  and  having  a  very  bitter  taste.  Soluble  in 
water  and  alcohol,  and  insoluble  in  chloroform  or  ether. 
Decomposed  by  sulphuric  acid  into  glucose  and  strophan- 
thidin. Strophanthin  is  said  to  be  contained  only  in  S. 
Kombe.  (2)  Kombic  acid.  (3)  An  alkaloid,  Ineine.  (4) 
Tanghinin,  occurring  in  rhombic  prisms. 

PREPARATION. 

Tinctura  Strophanthi.    Tincture  of  Strophanthus. 
(U.  S.  &B.  P.) 

Made  by  digestion  and  percolation  of  strophanthus  (50)  with  alcohol 
and  water  to  make  1000.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.  &  C.,'3i-iv.  (4.-15.);  D.,  irtii-x.  (.12-.6).  The  minimum 
doses  should  be  used  at  first,  since  preparations  vary  in  strength. 


430  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Strophanthinum.     Stroplianthin. 
(Non-official.) 

Dose.-H.,  gr.i-i  (.012-.03) ;  D.,  gr.^-^  (.0006-.001). 
The  glucoside  is  not  always  pure  and  the  dose  is  uncertain 
and  must  be  given  with  caution. 

Action  External. — Strophanthus  is  a  local  anaesthetic. 

Action  Internal. — Strophanthus  is  a  gastro-intestinal 
irritant  in  large  doses,  like  digitalis,  and  produces  violent 
purging  and  sometimes  vomiting.  On  account  of  its  bitter 
qualities  it  may  act  in  small  medicinal  doses  as  a  stomachic, 
improving  appetite  and  stimulating  gastric  secretion  and 
motion. 

Circulation. — The  action  of  strophanthus  on  the  circula- 
tion is  very  similar  to  that  of  digitalis,  but  it  is  a  more 
powerful  and  uncertain  heart  stimulant  and  produces  less 
vascular  constriction.  By  its  influence  the  hefirt  beats  are 
made  more  forcible,  infrequent  and  regular.  Diastole  is 
prolonged  and  systole  is  strengthened  but  unaltered  in  time. 
Arterial  tension  is  raised  and  the  pulse  wave  is  increased  in 
volume  and  force.  The  physiological  details  are  not  so  well 
ascertained  as  are  those  of  digitalis,  but  it  is  known  that 
strophanthus  directly  stimulates  the  heart  muscle  in  moder- 
ate doses.  The  vessels  are  slightly  contracted,  but  not 
nearly  as  much  so  as  by  digitalis.  Increased  blood  pressure 
results  mainly  from  the  augmented  heart's  action.  In 
poisoning,  the  peripheral  vagi  are  paralyzed  and  vascular 
tension  falls,  owing  probably  to  tetanic  contraction  of  the 
ventricles.     The  heart  is  arrested  in  systole  or  diastole. 

Nervous  System. — 3Iuscles  and  Respiration.  — Sir o-phsLii- 
thus  is  a  powerful  muscle  poison.  Therapeutic  doses 
increase  muscular  activity  and  tone,  while  toxic  quantities 
paralyze  voluntary  muscles.  Medicinal  doses  not  only 
stimulate  the  voluntary  muscles,  but  also  the  unstriped 
muscle  of  the  heart,  and  to  some  extent  that  of  the  vessel 
walls.  The  nerve  centres  and  trunks  are  unaffected  except 
by  the  local  application  of  strophanthus,  which  paralyzes 


CO^^VALLARIA  431 

the  sensory  nerve  endiDgs  and  muscular  tissue.  The  respirar 
tion  is  uninfluenced  by  therapeutic  doses  of  strophanthus, 
but  in  poisoning  death  sometimes  takes  place  from 
respiratory  failure  following  paralysis  of  the  respiratory 
muscles. 

Kidneys. — The  kidneys  are  irritated  by  large  doses  of 
strophanthus  and  the  urine  is  albuminous.  Inflammation  of 
the  renal  tubules  with  minute  haemorrhages  are  found  post 
mortem.  The  renal  vessels  are  not  dilated,  and  the  oncometer 
shows  that  the  size  of  the  kidney  is  not  increased.  The 
drug  stimulates  the  secretory  cells  of  the  renal  tubules  and 
causes  diuresis  directly  as  well  as  indirectly  by  increasing 
general  blood  pressure.  The  active  principle  is  eliminated 
in  the  urine.  A  cumulative  action  in  the  lower  animals  and 
in  man  has  been  noted  by  several  observers. 

Uses  Internal. — In  general,  it  may  be  stated  that  the 
indications  for  strophanthus  are  identical  with  those  for 
digitalis,  but  the  former  is  not  so  certain  in  its  effects.  It  is 
of  value  as  a  substitute  for  digitalis  when  this  medicine  is 
not  well  borne,  and  to  replace  digitalis  temporarily  in  order 
to  avoid  its  cumulative  action.  On  account  of  the  stimulant 
and  diuretic  properties  of  strophanthus,  it  is  useful  in 
mitral  disease,  cardiac  dropsy,  pericardial  and  pleural  effu- 
sions, pulmonary  oedema,  and  chronic  nephritis ;  but  in 
heart  disease  digitalis  should  be  tried  first. 

CoNVALLARiA.     Convallaria.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Lily  of  the  Valley,  E.;  muguet,  Fr.  The 
rhizome  and  roots  of  Convallaria  majalis  Linne  (nat.  ord. 
Liliaceae). 

Habitat — United  States,  in  the  Alleghany  Mountains, 
Europe  and  northern  Asia. 

Description.  —  Of  horizontal  growth  and  somewhat 
branched  ;  about  3  Mm.  thick,  cylindrical,  wrinkled,  whitish, 
marked  with  few  circular  scars ;  at  the  annulate  joint  with 
about  8  or  10  long  thin  roots ;  fracture  somewhat  fibrous, 


432  YEGETABLE  DKUGS 

white;  odor  peculiar,  pleasant;   taste  sweetish,  bitter  and 
somewhat  acrid. 

Constituents. — Two  glucosides ;  (1)  Convallamarin  (C^gH^ 
O34),  the  active  principle.  A  white  powder,  having  a  sweet, 
bitter  taste,  and  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol.  (2)  Conval- 
larin  (Cg^HsiOu),  occurring  in  prismatic  crystals,  soluble  in 
alcohol,  sparingly  in  water,  and  insoluble  in  ether.  A 
purgative. 

PREPARATION. 

Extractum  Convallarnce  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Convallaria. 

(U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  diluted  alcohol,  and 
evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 
Dose.—U.  &  C,  3  i-iv.  (4.-15.) ;  D.,  mv.-x.  (.3-6). 

Action  and  Uses  Internal. — ^^ Convallaria,  by  virtue  of 
convallamarin,  resembles  digitalis  in  its  action  on  the  heart, 
vessels  and  kidneys,  but  is  not  so  reliable  and  powerful. 
The  indications  for  its  use  are  the  same  as  those  for  digitalis. 
In  some  cases  it  is  successful  where  the  latter  drug  has 
failed.  Occasionally  purging  has  resulted  owing  to  the  con- 
vallarin  in  convallaria.  The  fatal  dose  of  convallamarin  is 
stated  by  Marme  to  be  gr.  |  to  J,  (.015-.03)  for  dogs,  and  yet 
the  dose  recommended  in  veterinary  text  books  is  gr.  ^  to  2 
(.03-.12).  The  glucoside  is  not  a  pure  principle  and  there- 
fore varies  in  strength.  For  this  reason  the  dose  is  uncertain 
and  its  use  undesirable. 


SciLLA.     Squill.     (U.  S.  &B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Squills,  E. ;  meerzwiebel,  G.  ;  scille,  squille, 
Fr.;  bulbus  scillse,  P.  G. 

The  bulb  of  Urginea  maritima  (Linne)  Baker  (nat.  ord. 
Liliacese),  deprived  of  its  dry,  membranaceous  outer  scales, 
and  cut  into  thin  slices,  the  central  portions  being  rejected. 

Habitat. — Southern  Europe,  on  the  shores  of  the  Medi- 
terranean. 


SQUILL  •  433 

Description, — In  narrow  segments  about  5  Cm.  long, 
slightly  translucent,  yellowish-white  or  reddish,  brittle  and 
piilverizable  when  dry ;  tough  and  flexible  after  exposure  to 
damp  air ;  inodorous ;  taste  mucilaginous,  bitter  and  acrid. 

Constitmnts.  —  Various  active  principles  have  been 
recovered,  but  it  is  doubtful  if  any  completely  represent  the 
action  of  the  drug.  All  possess  some  poisonous  properties. 
Merck  sells  three  substances  derived  from  squill :  (1)  Scil- 
litoxin,  a  glucoside.  (2)  Scillipicrin.  (3)  Scillin.  In  addi- 
tion, the  drug  contains  mucilage. 

Squill  Dose,—R.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.) ;  C,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.) ;  Sh., 
gr.xv.-xxx.  (1.-2.) ;  D.,  gr.i.-v.  (.06-.3). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Scillce  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Squill.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol  and  water, 
and  evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 

Dose.— H.,    3  i.-ii.   (4.-8.);    C,     3  ii.-iv.    (8.-15.);    Sh.,    mxv.-xxx. 
(1..2,);  D.,  Tai.-v.  (.06-.3). 

Tinctura  Sciirce.    Tincture  of  Squill.     (U.  S.  «fe  B.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  squill,  150;  with  alcohol  and 

water  to  make  1000.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.,  3  vi.-  §  i.ss.  (24.-45.) ;  C,  f  i.ss.-iii.  (45.-90.) ;  Sh.,  3  i.ss.-iii. 

(6.-12.);  D.,  mv.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

Syrujms  Scillce.    Syrup  of  Squill.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  boiling  and  filtering  vinegar  of  squill,  450  ;  adding  sugar, 
800  ;  straining  and  adding  water  to  make  1000.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Dose.— H.,  Is8.  (15.);  D.,  3s8.-i.  (2.-4.). 
Incompatible  with  ammonium  carbonate. 

Syrupus  Scillce  Compositus.     Compound  Syrup  of  Squill. 
(U.  S.  P.) 
Synonym. — Coxe's  Hive  Syrup.     Fluid  extract  of  squill,  80 ;  fluid 
extract  of  senega,  80;  antimonium  and  potassium  tartrate,  2;  precipitated 
calcium  phosphate,  10 ;  sugar,  750  ;  water  to  make  1000. 
Dose.— D.,  TTiv.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

Action  Internal.  —  Gastro-intestinal  TVac^. ^Therapeutic 
doses  do  not  exert  any  effect,  but  toxic  quantities  cause 
vomiting  and   purging  in  dogs,  with  fall   of  temperature, 


434  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

stupor,  intermittent  paralysis,  convulsions,  suppression  or 
scanty  secretion  of  bloody  urine,  and  death  within  12  or  15 
hours.  Lesions  of  gastro-enteritis  and  congestion  of  the 
kidneys  are  found  after  death. 

Circulation. — The  action  of  squill  on  the  heart  and 
vessels  is  practically  identical  with  that  of  digitalis. 

Respiration. — Clinical  experience,  rather  than  physio- 
logical experiments,  has  shown  that  squill  acts  as  an  expect- 
orant during  its  elimination  from  the  bronchial  mucous 
membrane,  thereby  increasing  secretion  and  vascularity. 

Kidneys. — Squill  is  eliminated  mainly  by  the  kidneys, 
and  in  its  excretion  directly  stimulates  them  and  increases 
the  amount  of  urine.  In  toxic  doses  it  produces  acute 
parenchymatous  nephritis  and  urinary  suppression.  Squill 
is  a  more  powerful  diuretic  than  digitalis. 

Uses  Internal. — Squill  is  useful  in  ascites  of  dogs,  result- 
ing from  valvular  lesions  or  otherwise,  to  stimulate  the 
heart  and  cause  diuresis.  It  may  be  given  to  advantage  in 
pill  with  digitalis,  calomel,  and  extract  of  hyoscyamus — one 
grain  of  each.  Small  doses  of  squill  are  often  exhibited  to 
dogs  in  the  second  stage  of  acute  bronchitis,  and  occasion- 
ally to  horses,  as  an  expectorant ;  and  in  large  doses  as  an 
emetic  for  dogs  in  the  form  of  the  simple  or  compound 
syrup.  The  drug  is  indicated  in  bronchitis  with  scanty 
secretion,  or  when  exudation  is  excessive  to  improve  the 
tone  of  the  bronchial  mucous  membrane. 

Class  2. — Decreasing  the  Force  and  Lrequency 
of  the  Heart. 

AcoNiTUM.     Aconite. 

Synonym. — Aconiti  radix,  B.P. ;  racine  d'aconit,  Fr. ; 
tubera  aconiti,  P.  G.  ;  eisenhutknollen,  G.  The  tuber  of 
Aconitum  Napellus  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Ranunculacese). 

Habitat. — Northwestern  North  America,  Europe  and 
Asia  in  mountainous  regions,  and  cultivated  in  the  United 
States  for  its  showy  flowers. 


ACONITE  435 

Dtscription. — From  10  to  20  Mm.  thick  at  the  crown  ; 
conically  contracted  below ;  from  50  to  75  Mm.  long,  with 
scars  or  fragments  of  radicles ;  dark  brown  externally, 
whitish  internally,  with  a  rather  thick  bark;  the  central 
axis  about  seven-rayed ;  without  odor ;  taste  at  first  sweetish, 
soon  becoming  acrid  and  producing  a .  sensation  of  tingling 
and  numbness  which  lasts  for  seme  time. 

Constituents. — The  alkaloid  representing  the  action  of 
the  drug  is  aconitine  (CggH^aNOij?),  which  is  precipitated  by 
ammonia  from  an  aqueous  solution  of  an  alcoholic  extract 
of  the  root  of  various  species.  It  is  a  colorless,  crystalline, 
or  amorphous,  gray  powder,  almost  insoluble  in  water,  and 
soluble  in  40  parts  of  alcohol  or  ether,  and  1  part  of  chloro- 
form.    Its  salts  are  soluble  in  water. 

Commercial  preparations  vary  in  purity  and  strength, 
and  since  it  is  extremely  poisonous  (an  Indian'arrow  poison) 
its  internal  administration  is  undesirable,  Pseudo-aconitine 
(CggH^gNOu),  aconine  (CoeHjgNOji),  and  other  alkaloids  in  com- 
bination, with  aconitic  acid,  (CgHeOJ  have  been  obtained 
from  aconite,  but  their  identity  and  chemistry  are  un- 
certain. 

Aconite  Dose. — H,  &  C,  gr.iii-xx.  (.2-1.3) ;  D.,  gr.-^-iL 
(.006-.12). 

Aconitince  Nitras,     (Squibb.)     Subcutaneously. 

H.,  gr.^  (.002) ;  D.,  gx.-^^^  (.0003..0006). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Tinctura  Aconiti.    Tincture  of  Aconite.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Teinture  de  racine  d'aconit,  Fr.;  eisenhuttinktur,  G. 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  aconite,  350;  with  alcohol  and 
water  to  make  1000.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.—B..,  TTlv.-xxx.  (.3-2.);  C,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  ttiv.-x. 
(.3-.6);D,,  mss.-v.  (.03-.3). 

Extr actum  Aconiti  Fluidum.    Fluid  Extract  of  Aconite.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol  and  water,  and 
evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 

Dose.— H  &  C,  miii.-xx.  (.2-1.3);  D.,  mt^-ii.  (006-  12). 


436  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Extractum  Aconiti.    Extract  of  Aconite.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol,  and  evaporation 
to  pilular  consistence. 

Dose.— H.,  gr.i.  iii.  (.06-.2);  D.,  gr.J,.i  (.006-.015). 

Extractum  Aconiti.    (B.  P.) 
Dosc—B..,  gr.iii.-vi.  (.2-.36);  D.,  gr.ss.-i.  (.03-.06). 

Fleming's  Tincture.    (Non-official.)    (79  per  cent.) 
Dose—B,.,  Tilvii..xv.  (.5-1.);  D..  ni-ii.  (.015-.12). 

ACONITE  AND  ACONITINE. 

Action  External. — Aconite  or  aconitine  applied  to  mucous 
membranes,  raw  surfaces  or  the  unbroken  skin,  irritates  and 
then  paralyzes  the  nerves  of  touch  and  temperature.  This 
is  evidenced  in  the  human  subject  by  a  sensation  of  tingling 
and  burning,  followed  by  numbness  and  local  anaesthesia. 

Action  Internal. — Digestive  Tract. — Aconite  in  medicinal 
doses  has  no  special  effect  on  the  digestive  organs.  Toxic 
doses  produce  nausea  and  retching,  and,  in  animals  capable 
of  the  act,  vomiting. 

Circukdiuri. — The  chief  therapeutic  value  of  aconite 
depends  upon  its  influence  over  the  heart  and  vessels.  It 
reduces  both  the  force  and  frequency  of  the  cardiac  pulsa- 
tions and  lowers  blood  tension.  The  physiological  details 
accounting  for  this  action  are  not  positively  known.  It  is 
probable  that  the  slowing  of  the  heart  is  primarily  due  to 
stimulation  of  the  vagus  endings  in  the  heart,  inhibitory 
centre  in  the  medulla,  and  cardiac  motor  ganglia;  but 
soon  both  the  heart  muscle  and  its  contained  ganglia  are 
progressively  depressed,  and,  by  lethal  doses,  paralyzed. 
This  local  action  of  aconite  on  the  heart  is  exhibited  when 
the  drug  is  applied  directly  to  the  organ  in  situ,  or  to  the 
cut-out  heart,  when  its 'pulsations  are  diminished  in  force 
and  frequency. 

The  vasomotor  system  is  only  indirectly  influenced  by 
depression  of  the  sensory  nerves,  so  that  the  normal  peri- 
pheral stimuli  do  not  reflexly  stimulate  the  vasomotor  centre 
and  contract  the  arterioles.     Therefore  blood  pressure  is 


,  ACONITE  437 

lowered  for  this  reason  and  because  of  the  lessened  hearts 
action.  In  poisoning,  the  pulse  is  weak,  irregular  and  inter- 
mittent; first  slow  and  then  rapid.  There  is  ultimately 
paralysis  of  the  peripheral  vagi,  heart  muscle  and  its 
ganglia,  and  the  vasomotor  centres.  The  heart  is  arrested 
in  diastole,  but  death  immediately  results  from  respiratory 
failure. 

Nervous  System. — The  most  striking  effect  of  aconite 
on  the  nervous  system  consists  in  loss  of  sensation 
and  temperature  sense  after  large  medicinal  doses.  This 
phenomenon  is  due  to  depression  of  the  sensory  nerve 
terminations,  and  possibly  to  depression  of  sensory  percep- 
tive centres  in  the  brain,  and  sensory  side  of  the  cord.  The 
drug  is  not  comparable  with  opium,  since  doses  large  enough 
to  produce  a  general  anodyne  action  are  dangerous. 

Poisonous  doses  of  aconite  cause  loss  of  motor  power 
as  well  as  loss  of  sensation.  This  latter  effect  follows 
paralysis  of  the  motor  nerve  endings  and  perhaps  the  spinal 
motor  tract.  There  is  some  disturbance  of  the  brain,  as 
exhibited  by  occasional  delirium  and  convulsions.  The 
latter  are  supposed  to  follow  interference  with  the  circula- 
tion at  the  base  of  the  brain.  Furthermore,  in  man,  dizzi- 
ness, blindness,  deafness  and  loss  of  speech  sometimes  occur 
in  lethal  poisoning. 

Respiration. — ^The  breathing  of  animals  under  the  influ- 
ence of  aconite  resembles  that  observed  after  section  of  the 
vagi.  The  respiration  is  slow  ;  the  expiration  is  prolonged, 
and  is  succeeded  by  a  considerable  interval  before  the  next 
inspiration.  This  condition  is  brought  about  by  depression 
of  the  medullary  respiratory  centres  and  terminations  of  the 
afferent  vagi  in  the  lungs. 

Temperature. — The  bodily  heat  is  reduced  by  aconite  in 
fever,  after  medicinal  doses,  and  in  poisoning  by  the  drug. 
Vascular  dilatation,  retarded  circulation,  and  therefore  heat 
dissipation,  probably  explains  the  antipyretic  action. 

Skin. — Aconite  sometimes  produces  slight  diarphoresis. 
The  cause  of  this  action  is  unknown. 


438  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Kidneys  and  Elimination. — The  urinary  flow  is  some- 
what increased,  especially  in  fever.  The  cause  is  also 
uncertain;  neither  is  the  mode  of  elimination  understood. 

Toxicology. — The  minimum  fatal  dose  of  aconite  is  about 
3  i.  for  the  horse  ;  gr.xx.  for  medium  sized  dogs  ;  and  gr.v.-vi. 
for  cats.  The  smallest  fatal  dose  recorded  in  man  is  a  tea- 
spoonful  of  tincture  of  aconite,  equivalent  to  about  gr.xxx.  of 
the  crude  drug.  The  minimum  lethal  quantity  of  aconitine 
is  gr.^  for  man,  and  about  the  same  for  cats.  For  dogs  it 
is  from  gr.J  to  gr.J.  The  writer  has  found  that  cats  will 
live  from  fifteen  minutes  to  half  an  hour  after  receiving  the 
smaller  deadly  doses  under  the  skin,  but  large  doses  produce 
death  immediately  by  paralyzing  the  heart.  Large  thera- 
peutic doses  cause,  in  horses,  restlessness,  pawing  the 
ground,  shaking  of  the  head,  champing  of  the  jaws,  increased 
secretion  of  salivary  mucus,  and  attempts  at  swallowing, 
probably  owing  to  the  peculiar  sense  of  irritation  produced 
by  the  drug  in  the  throat.  Nausea  and  retching  are  observed 
in  all  animals,  while  vomiting  occurs  in  dogs  and  cats.  The 
pulse  and  respiration  are  weakened  and  generally  retarded. 
After  lethal  doses  these  symptoms  are  intensified.  We 
observe  violent  retching,  frequent  and  difficult  attacks  of 
swallowing,  ejection  of  frothy  mucns  from  the  mouth, 
copious  sweating  in  horses;  pulse  first  weak  and  infrequent, 
later  rapid,  running  and  almost  imperceptible ;  respiration 
slow,  interrupted,  and  shallow,  and  reduction  of  tempera- 
ture. Death  is  preceded  by  muscular  twitchings  in  the 
horse  and  loss  of  strength,  so  that  the  subject  falls  and  is 
unable  to  rise  ;  or  in  the  case  of  cats  and  rabbits,  the  animals 
jump  vertically  into  the  air,  topple  over  backwards  and  go 
into  convulsions,  lying  helpless  on  their  side.  The  labial 
muscles  are  retracted  and  the  lips  drawn  back,  showing  the 
teeth  covered  with  foam;  The  face  is  anxious,  the  eyeballs 
are  retracted  or  protruded,  and  the  pupils  more  commonly 
dilated.  Death  takes  place  usually  from  asphyxia,  occasion- 
ally from  syncope.  The  post  mortem  appearances  are 
simply  those  resulting  from  asphyxia. 


ACONITE  439 

Treatment — Evacuate  the  stomach  by  pump  or  siphon. 
Emetics  are  contraindicated  as  disturbing  the  heart.  Car- 
diac and  respiratory  stimulants  are  to  be  given  subcutane- 
ouslv,  as  alcohol,  ether,  and  tincture  of  digitalis,  in  addition 
to  inhalation  of  amyl  nitrite.  The  patient  must  be  kept 
quiet,  and  artificial  respiration  done  if  practicable  and 
necessary. 

Experimental  and  clinical  evidence  abundantly  prove 
the  antagonism  of  digitalis  as  an  antidote  in  stimulating 
the  heart,  even  when  it  has  stopped  beating,  in  aconite 
poisoning. 

Uses  External. — Aconite  may  be  applied  in  the  official 
liniment  (fluid  extract  of  aconite,  40 ;  chloroform  liniment, 
60)  to  relieve  pain  of  an  inflammatory,  neuralgic,  or  rheu- 
matic character;  or  as  aconitine  in  ointment  (2-4  per  cent.) 
for  the  same  purposes.  Aconitine  is  very  expensive,  how- 
ever. Care  must  be  exercised  to  prevent  undue  absorption 
and  poisoning. 

Uses  Interned, — Aconite  fills  certain  indications  which  no 
other  drug  does.     It  is  useful  in  fever  because  : 

1.  It  diminishes  the  force  and  frequency  of  the  heart. 

2.  It  causes  arterial  relaxation  and  equalizes  the  circu- 
lation ;  {,€.,  it  allows  the  blood  to  flow  away  from  congested 
areas  into  dilated  peripheral  vessels.  It  is  not  s©  powerful 
as  veratrum  viride. 

3.  It  lowers  temperature  and  produces  sweating  and 
diuresis. 

4.  It  relieves  pain  and  restlessness  to  some  extent. 
Aconite  is  particularly  applicable,  conjoined  with  sweet 

spirit  of  nitre,  in  the  first  stages  of  febrile  diseases ;  in  those 
attacking  the  young ;  and  in  those  of  self-limited  and  short 
duration,  viz.,  coryza,  laryngitis,  pharyngitis,  pleuritis, 
bronchitis  and  pneumonia  uncomplicated  with  influenza. 
It  is  also  indicated  in  the  initial  period  of  acute  muscular 
rheumatism,  enteritis  and  peritonitis  (combined  with  opium), 
and  in  mammitis,  lymphangitis,  and  laminitis.  Spasmodic 
and  painful  disorders,  as  colic,  are  relieved  more  success- 


440  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

fully  by  powerful  anodynes  and  antispasmodics  (opium  and 
belladonna). 

In  chronic  or  long  continued  fevers,  the  use  of  aconite 
should  not  be  persisted  in,  but  it  should  be  given  at  the  very 
outset  of  fevers  and  repeated  frequently  in  small  doses. 
T(\y.  for  the  horse,  and  TTtss.  for  the  dog,  every  fifteen 
minutes  for  two  hours,  and  afterwards  TTLx.  for  the  horse, 
and  TTti-  for  the  dog,  hourly,  being  governed  by  the  condition 
of  the  pulse  and  temperature.  Aconite  is  a  useful  sedative 
in  some  cardiac  disturbances.  It  quiets  nervous  palpitation, 
and  that  form  resulting  from  hypertrophy  of  the  heart.  It 
can  be  administered  to  advantage  in  the  first  stages  of  acute 
pericarditis  and  endocarditis. 

Veratrum  Viride.     Veratrum  Viride. 

Synonym. — Veratri  viridis  rhizoma,'B.  P.;  American 
hellebore,  green  hellebore  root,  Indian  poke  root,  E. ; 
griiuer  germer,  G. 

The  rhizome  and  roots  of  Veratrum  viride  Solander  (nat 
ord.  Liliacese). 

Description. — Rhizome  upright,  obconical,  simple  or 
divided,  from  3  to  8  Cm.  long  and  2  to  4  or  5  Cm.  thick; 
externally  blackish-gray,  internally  grayish-white  ;  showing 
numerous  short,  irregular  wood-bundles.  Roots  emanating 
from  all  sides  of  the  rhizome,  numerous,  shrivelled,  light 
yellowish-brown  ;  about  10  to  20  Cm.  long  and  2  Mm.  thick. 
Inodorous,  but  strongly  sternutatory  when  powdered ;  taste 
bitterish  and  very  acrid. 

Constituents. — 1.  Jervine  (CjiHa^NOg),  a  pure  alkaloid, 
occurring  also  in  veratrum  album.  2.  Veratroidine  or  ceva- 
dine ;  an  impure  alkaloid,  non-crystallizable,  composed 
chiefly  of  rubijervine  in  combination  with  resin  and  other 
bodies.  It  is  said  to  be  identical  with  veratrine.  3.  Pseu- 
dojerviue.  4.  Traces  of  rubijervine.  5.  A  resin,  nearly 
inert,  but  a  gastro-intestinal  irritant. 

Veratrum  Viride  Dose.^B..  &  C,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.) ;  Sh.  & 
Sw.,  gr.xx.-xxx.  (1.3-2.);  D.,  gr.^i.  (.006-.06). 


VERATRUM  VIRIDE  441 

PREPARATIONS. 

ExtrcLctum  Veratri  Viridis  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Veratrum 
Viride.    (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol,  and  evaporation, 
so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  dru^. 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  3  8s.-i.  (3.-4.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  ttlxx.-xxx.  (1.3-2.);  D., 
TiiiVi-  (.006-.06). 

Tinctura  Veratri  Viridis.     Tincture  of  Veratrum  Viride. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  veratrum  viride,  400 ;  and 
alcohol  to  make  1000.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.—H.  &  C,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  TTixl.-3i.  (2.6-4.)  ;  D., 
mi-ii.  (.012-.  12). 

JERVINE. 

Action  Internal — Digestive  Tract. — Large  doses  cause 
salivatioij,  but  hav.e  little  effect  on  the  stomach  or  bowels. 

Circvlation. — Jervine  is  a  powerful  depressant  to  the 
heart  muscle,  its  contained  ganglia,  and  the  vasomotor 
centres.  Large  doses,  therefore,  weaken  and  slow  the  pulse 
and  lower  vascular  tension. 

Respiration. — The  alkaloid  is  also  a  profound  respira- 
tory depressant,  and  death  occurs  from  asphyxia  in  poison- 
ing, the  heart  continuiug  to  beat  after  cessation  of  breathing. 

Nervous  System. — In  poisoning  by  jervine,  animals 
exhibit  muscular  tremors  and  weakness,  and  finally  fall 
from  loss  of  muscular  power.  Lying  prostrate  on  the 
ground  in  a  paralytic  state,  they  are  attacked  by  clonic  con- 
vulsions. The  paralysis  is  attributable  to  depression  of  the 
cells  of  the  inferior  coinua,  while  the  convulsions  are  due  to 
disturbance  of  the  cerebral  circulation,  or  stimulation  of  the 
cerebral  motor  tract.  The  muscles  and  nerves  are  unaffected 
by  jervine,  but  there  is  partial  anaesthesia  of  spinal  origin 
observed  just  before  death. 

VERATROIDINE. 

Action  Interrial. — The  alkaloid  is  a  decided  gastro-intes- 
tinal  irritant  and  produces  vomiting  in  animals  capable  of 
the  act,  and  often  purging. 


442  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

Circulation. — Yeratroidine  mainly  influences  tlie  cardiac 
inhibitory  apparatus.  When  artificial  respiration  is  practised^ 
so  that  the  effect  of  the  substance  on  the  respiratory  centres 
will  not  overcome  the  action  on  the  circulation,  it  is  found 
that  the  alkaloid  slows  the  heart's  action  in  moderate  doses 
by  stimulating  the  pneumogastric  centres.  Large  toxic 
doses,  on  the  other  hand,  paralyze  the  vagus  nerve  endings 
in  the  heart,  and  the  cardiac  pulsations  therefore  become 
veiy  frequent.  The  vasomotor  centres  are  uninfluenced  by 
ordinary  quantities  of  veratroidine. 

Eespiration. — The  depressing  action  of  veratroidine  on 
the  respiratory  functions  is  more  marked  than  that  exerted 
on  the  heart,  so  that,  unless  artificial  respiration  is  sustained, 
asphyxia  supervenes,  and  this  leads  to  vasomotor  spasm  and 
great  rise  of  blood  pressure.  Death  ensues  from  respiratory 
failure. 

Nervous  System. — The  influence  of  veratroidine  upon 
the  nervous  system  is  similar  to  that  of  jervine,  but  the 
spasmodic  phenomena  are  not  so  prominent. 

VERATRUM  VIRIDE. 

Action  Internal. — The  action  of  the  drug  is  a  resultant 
of  the  action  of  jervine  and  veratroidine. 

Circulation. — The  most  noteworthy  therapeutic  value  of 
veratrum  viride  depends  upon  its  effect  on  the  circulation. 
It  first  lowers  the  force  (jervine),  and,  if  continued,  the 
frequency  (veratroidine  and  jervine)  of  the  pulse,  and  alsa 
reduces  vascular  tension.  Veratrum  viride  is  considerably 
more  powerful  than  aconite,  which  depresses  the  action  of 
the  heart  but  does  not  directly  lessen  arterial  action.  Vera- 
trum viride  is,  however,  inferior  to  aconite  for  general  pur- 
poses, as  it  does  not  possess  the  anodyne,  diarphoretic,  or 
diuretic  properties  peculiar  to  the  latter  drug. 

The  temperature  is  reduced  several  degrees  by  large 
doses  of  veratrum  viride. 

Toxicology. — The  symptoms  exhibited  in  veratrum  viride 
poisoning  are  :  salivation,  vomiting,  or  attempts  at  vomiting. 


VERATRUM  VIRIDE  443 

purging,  abdominal  pain,  muscular  weakness,  difficulty  in 
progression,  loss  of  power  and  general  paralysis,  muscular 
tremors  and  spasms,  and  occasionally  convulsions.  The 
pulse  is  unaltered  in  rate  at  first,  but  later  becomes  infrequent 
and  compressible  and  finally  rapid,  thread-like  and  running. 
The  respiration  is  shallow,  the  temperature  reduced,  the 
skin  is  cold  and  clammy ;  there  is  semi-consciousness,  loss 
of  sight  and  death  from  asphyxia. 

Treatment  should  be  pursued  with  cardiac  and  respira- 
tory stimulants,  as  amyl  nitrite  (by  inhalation),  alcohol, 
strychnine  and  atropine  ;  tannic  acid  as  a  chemical  antidote  ; 
opium  to  subdue  pain ;  and  demulcents  to  relieve  local  irrita- 
tion of  the  digestive  tract.  Warm  water  should  be  given  the 
smaller  animals  to  wash  out  the  stomach  and  to  assist  vomi- 
tion,  and  quietude  should  be  enforced.  In  man,  fatal  poison- 
ing is  rare,  since  the  drug  is  spontaneously  vomited.  The 
same  would  probably  apply  to  dogs.  Recovery  has  ensued 
in  horses  after  ingestion  of  two  ounces  of  veratrum  album 
root. 

Administration. — It  is  advisable  to  give  small  doses  of 
the  tincture  or  fluid  extract  hourly.  In  the  case  of  the 
smaller  patients  the  dose  should  be  preceded  by  the  ad- 
ministration of  a  correspondingly  small  dose  of  laudanum 
(1T[v,-x.)  to  prevent  vomiting. 

Uses  Internal. — The  alkaloids  of  veratrum  viride  are 
difficult  to  obtain  in  their  purity,  and  are  not  used  in  practice. 

The  drug  is  applicable  as  a  circulatory  sedative  at  the 
outset  of  sthenic  diseases  afflicting  strong,  plethoric  animals. 
Veratrum  viride  bleeds  an  animal  into  its  own  vessels  by 
causing  vascular  dilatation.  The  indications  are  similar 
to  those  applying  to  venesection,  and  are  therefore  limited. 
In  some  cases  of  acute  diseases,  included  within  the  limits 
defined  above,  it  may  prove  of  the  utmost  service  to  cut 
short  or  even  abort  the  attack. 

In  this  list  may  be  placed  sthenic  pneumonia,  cerebritis, 
laminitis,  puerperal  fever,  and,  when  veratrum  is  combined 
with   opium   to  obviate   stimulation   of    peristaltic   action. 


444  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

enteritis,  peritonitis,  and  abdominal  wounds  and  injuries. 
Veratrum  viride  is  said  to  relieve  pain,  lower  temperature, 
and  lessen  the  duration  of  acute  rheumatic  fever. 

VERATRUM  ALBUM. 

Synonym. — Yeratri  albi  rhizoma,  white  hellebore  root,  R 
Habitat. — Europe  (used  on  the  continent). 
Constituents. — 1.  Jervine.  2.  Yeratralbine,  which  is 
allied  to  veratrine.  Veratrum  album  generally  resembles 
veratrum  viride,  but  it  is  a  more  powerful  gastro-intestinal 
irritant.  The  Germans  recommend  it  to  be  given  as  an 
emetic  to  swine,  in  milk,  gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3),  and  as  an  emetic  to 
cattle,  3  iv.-vi.  (16.-24.).  Its  use  is,  however,  attended  with 
some  danger  in  these  doses. 

Veratrina;    Veratrine.     (U.  S.  <fe  B.  P.) 

A  mixture  of  alkaloids  obtained  from  the  seed  of 
Asagrsea  officinalis  (Schlechtendal  et  Chamisso)  Lindley 
(nai  ord.  Liliacese).     (U.  S.  P.) 

Derivation. — Obtained  from  the  seed  by  alcohol,  which 
is  recovered  by  distillation,  and  the  residue  is  treated  with 
water  to  precipitate  resins ;  filtered,  and  veratrine  is  precipi- 
tated from  the  filtrate  by  ammonia.  It  is  further  purified  by 
solution  in  water,  decolorization,  and  reprecipitation. 

Properties. — A  white,  or  grayish- white,  amorphous,  or 
semi-crystalline  powder ;  odorless,  but  causing  intense  irri- 
tation and  sneezing  when  even  a  minute  quantity  reaches 
the  nasal  mucous  membrane  ;  having  an  acrid  taste,  and  leav- 
ing a  sense  of  tingling  and  numbness  on  the  tongue.  Per- 
manent in  the  air.  Very  slightly  soluble  in  cold  or  hot 
water;  soluble  in  3  parts  of  alcohol,  and  very  soluble  in 
boiling  alcohol ;  also  soluble  in  6  parts  of  ether,  and  in  2 
parts  of  chloroform. 

Dose.—R.,  gr.ss.-ii.  (.03-.12);  C,  gr.ii.-v.  (.12-.3) ;  D., 
gr.,V-^  (.0012-006). 

The  smaller  doses  to  be  given  subcutaneously. 


VERATRINE  445 

PREPARATION. 

Oleatum  Veratrince.    Oleate  of  Veratrine.    (U.  S.  P.) 
Veratrine,  4  ;  olive  oil,  6  ;  benzoinated  lard,  90.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Action  Internal. — Veratrine  is  a  powerful  irritant.  If 
inhaled  in  minutest  quantity  it  causes  sneezing  and  a  mucous, 
or  bloody  discharge.  When  injected  under  the  skin,  vera- 
trine occasions  suffering  and  restlessness.  Rubbed  into  the 
skin  or  applied  to  a  mucous  membrane  or  a  raw  surface,  it 
produces  redness  and  pain  followed  by  local  ansesthesia. 

Action  Internal — Here  again  veratrine  is  an  intense  irri- 
tant. After  ingestion  of  large  doses,  there  are  salivation, 
violent  vomiting,  in  animals  capable  of  the  act ;  often  severe 
purging,  pain,  collapse,  fall  of  temperature  and  other  symp- 
toms common  to  gastro-enteritis. 

Nervous  System  and  Muscles. — Veratrine  is  a  direct 
poison  to  the  motor  and  sensory  nerves  and  muscles,  first 
exalting  and  then  depressing  and  paralyzing  their  functional 
activity.  The  cerebrum,  and  probably  the  spinal  cord,  escape 
its  influence.  Spasms  and  convulsions  occur  in  veratrine 
poisoning,  in  the  stage  of  motor  excitement,  while  paralysis 
follows  depression  of  the  nerves  and  muscles.  The  action  of 
the  substance  begins  and  ends  sooner  in  the  nerves  than  the 
muscles.  The  effect  of  veratrine  on  voluntary  muscle  is 
peculiar.  A  tracing  of  a  muscle  during  contraction  shows 
that  the  latent  period,  and  that  of  ascent,  is  unaltered ;  but 
the  amount  of  contraction  is  much  augmented,  as  shown  by 
the  increased  height  of  the  curve  ;  and  the  time  of  relaxation 
is  greatly  prolonged. 

Circulation. — Veratrine  affects  the  heart  muscle  much 
as  it  does  the  striped  muscle,  and  the  vagus  nerve  similarly 
to  the  spinal  nerves.  The  cardiac  muscle  and  vagus  nerve 
(central  and  peripheral),  and  probably  the  vasomotor 
centres,  are  primarily  stimulated  and  secondarily  depressed 
and  paralyzed.  Three  conditions  have  been  noted  in  rela- 
tion to  the  pulse,  corresponding  to  different  stages  in  the 
action  of  veratrine.    1.  A  small  dose  may  induce  a  temporary 


446  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

rise  of  pulse  rate,  force  and  tension,  by  stimulation  of  the 
cardiac  muscle  and  vasomotor  centres.  2.  Large  doses  are 
followed  by  slowing  and  weakening  of  the  pulse.  The 
vagus  is  stimulated  and  the  heart  muscle  depressed.  3. 
Towards  the  end  of  fatal  poisoning  the  pulse  becomes  weak, 
thread-like,  rapid  and  irregular  from  paralysis  of  the  heart 
muscle,  inhibitory  apparatus  and  vasomotor  centres.  It 
sometimes  happens,  however,  that  the  pulse  remains  weak 
and  slow  in  this  stage  because  the  paralyzing  influence  of 
the  substance  on  the  heart  muscle  prevents  quickening  of 
the  heart  even  after  the  removal  of  inhibitory  control.  The 
heart  is  dilated  and  irresponsive  to  galvanism,  after  death,  as 
are  also  the  voluntary  muscles. 

Respiration. — Lethal  doses  paralyze  the  respiratory 
centres  and  death  occurs  from  respiratory  arrest.  The 
breathing  may  be  quickened  by  small  doses  of  veratrine, 
owing  to  transient  stimulation  of  the  respiratory  centres  and 
vagus  nerve  endings  in  the  lungs. 

Toxicology. — The  symptoms  of  poisoning  are  referable 
to  the  action  of  veratrine  on  the  digestive;  nervous  and 
muscular  apparatus,  heart,  and  respiratory  organs.  They 
include  nausea,  salivation,  clammy  sweating,  excessive  vomit- 
ing in  dogs,  cats  and  cattle,  attempts  at  vomiting  in  the 
horse,  abdominal  pain,  severe  purging,  muscular  twitchinpjs 
or  convulsions  (excited  by  external  stimuli),  loss  of  muscular 
power  and  paralysis.  The  pulse,  at  first  weak  and  infrequent, 
becomes  thready,  rapid  and  irregular.  The  temperature  is 
reduced  and  the  respiration  is  weak  and  slow.  Death  occurs 
in  convulsions  or  paralysis.  One-sixteenth  of  a  grain  has 
caused  alarming  symptoms  in  man.  The  minimum  fatal 
dose  is  about  one  grain  for  dogs.  One  grain  subcutaneously, 
or  five  to  six  grains  by  the  mouth,  produce  poisonous 
symptoms  in  horses. 

Treatment. — External  h6at;  respiratory  and  cardiac 
stimulants  should  be  employed  subcutaneously.  Potassium 
carbonate  and  demulcent  drinks  are  to  be  given  in- 
ternally. 


i 


IPECAC  447 

Uses  External.— yQXdXxmQ  is  of  trivial  value,  since  its 
therapeutic  application  is  narrowly  limited.  It  is  occasion- 
ally useful  in  the  official  ointment,  or  in  greater  strength 
(gr.xl.  to  5i-)  for  its  local  anaesthetic  action  applied  over 
rheumatic  joints.  It  may  be  employed  also  as  a  simple 
rubefacient.  An  aqueous  solution  of  veratrine  sulphate,  or 
an  alcoholic  dilution  of  the  pure  alkaloid,  is  recommended  by 
Ellenberger  and  other  noted  Germans  in  shoulder  lameness, 
myalgia,  and  chronic  rheumatic  affections  of  the  horse,  to  be 
injected  every  alternate  day,  or  oftener,  into  the  muscular 
tissue  over  the  seat  of  the  trouble.  The  animal  should  be  led 
about  for  fifteen  or  thirty  minutes  while  the  pain  of  the 
treatment  lasts.  The  initial  dose  is  gr.J  (0.4  Gm.),  to  be 
increased  to  gr.lj  (0.1  Gm.). 

Uses  Internal. — Veratrine  has  been  employed  as  a  cardiac 
sedative  and  antipyretic  in  pneumonia,  acute  rheumatism, 
and  in  other  sthenic  disorders,  but  it  is  inferior  for  these 
purposes  to  aconite  or  veratrum  viride,  and  its  other  effects 
are  undesirable.  The  remedy  is  lauded  by  foreign  authori- 
ties as  an  emetic  and  cathartic  for  cattle  in  impaction  of  the 
third  stomach,  and  in  conditions  where  it  is  desirable  to 
quickly  unload  their  digestive  apparatus. 

P.  Cagny  advises  veratrine,  grs.2^-3  (.15-20),  subcutane- 
ously,  to  be  followed  if  necessary  by  daily  doses  of  grs.S-?^, 
(0.3-0.5  Gm.)  in  mucilaginous  drinks  by  the  mouth.  The 
same  writer  finds  the  drug  useful  in  "broken  wind."  Vera- 
trine stimulates  intestinal  secretion  and  peristalsis  in  the 
horse,  but  is  inferior  to  eserine  and  pilocarpine  in  that 
animal  as  a  quickly  acting  cathartic. 


SECTION  VII.— DRUGS  ACTING  ON  THE 
RESPIRATORY  ORGANS. 

Ipecacuanha.     Ipecac.     (U.  S.  <fe  B.  P.) 

Synonym,  —  Ipecacuanha,     racine      bresilienne,     Fr. ; 
brechwurzel,  ruhrwurzel,  G. 


448  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

The  root  of  Cephaelis  Ipecacuanha  (Brotero)  A. 
Richard  (nat.  ord.  Rubiacese). 

Habitat. — South  America  from  Brazil  to  Bolivia,  and 
New  Grenada.     Cultivated  in  India. 

Description. — About  10  Cm.  long  and  4  or  5  Mm.  thick ; 
mostly  simple,  contorted,  dull  grayish-brown  or  blackish, 
finely  wrinkled,  closely  and  irregularly  annulated,  and  often 
transversely  fissured ;  bark  thick,  brittle,  brownish,  easily 
separated  from  the  thin,  whitish,  tough,  ligneous  portion ; 
odor  slight,  peculiar,  nauseous  ;  taste  bitterish,  acrid, 
nauseating. 

Constitttents.  —  1.  The  alkaloid  Emetine  (CaoH^oNOj), 
existing  to  the  extent  of  1-2  per  cent.,  and  representing  in 
the  main  the  action  of  the  crude  drug.  It  is  a  white,  odor- 
less, uncrystallizable  powder,  with  a  bitter,  burning  taste, 
and  soluble  in  alcohol  and  chloroform  ;  less  so  in  ether,  and 
very  slightly  in  water,  turning  yellow  on  keeping.  The 
impure  commercial  alkaloid  occurs  in  brownish-red  trans- 
parent and  deliquescent  scales,  very  soluble  in  water.  2. 
An  amorphous,  bitter  glucoside.  3.  An  astringent,  ipecac- 
uanhic  acid.  4.  A  volatile  oil,  starch,  gum,  tannin,  coloring 
matter,  etc.  Hemidesmus  exists  as  an  impurity,  it  is  cracked, 
not  annulated ;  also  bitter  almond  powder,  which  exhales 
the  odor  of  prussic  acid  when  wet.  Emetine  (non-official)  is 
rarely  used. 

Bose  of  Poiodered  Boot. — H^  3  i.-iL  (4.-8.) ;  C,  3  ii-iv. 
(8.-15.) ;  Sh.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.) ;  D.,  gr.ss.-ii.  (.03-.12). 

Emetic. — D.  <fe  Sw.,  gr.xv.-xxx.  (1.-2.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Ipecactianhce  Fluidum,    Fluid  Extract  of  Ipecac. 
(U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  maceracion  and  percolation  with  alcohol  and  water,  evap- 
oration of  a  portion  of  the  percolate,  solution  of  the  residue  in  the 
reserved  portion  of  the  percolate,  and  addition  of  alcohol  and  water,  so 
that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 

Dof^e. — Same  as  powdered  root. 


I 


IPECAC  449 

Syrupus  Ipecacuanhce.     Syrup  of  Ipecac.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Fluid  extract  of  ipecac,  70 ;  acetic  acid,  10 ;  glycerin,  100 ;  sugar, 
700  ;  water  to  make  1000. 

Dose.—D.  (expectorant),  ttixv.-  3  i.  (1.-4.). 

Vinum  Ipecacuanhce.    Wine  of  Ipecac.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Fluid    extract    of   ipecac,   100 ;    alcohol,  100 ;  white  wine,  800. 
(U.S.  P.) 

Dose.— Same  as  syrup  of  ipecac. 

Ptilvis  Ipecacuanhce  et  Opii.     (See  opium.) 
Tinctura  Ipecacuanhce  et  Opii.     (See  opium  ) 

Action  External. — Ipecac,  and  still  more  emetine,  are 
decided  irritants  when  applied  to  mucous  membranes,  raw 
surfaces,  or  even  to  the  unbroken  skin  ;  causing,  variously, 
hypersemia,  vesication,  pustulation,  and  ulceration,  according 
to  their  strength  and  the  mode  of  application.  Ipecac  is 
said  to  possess  some  antiseptic  properties  not  resident  in 
emetine. 

Action  Internal — Digestive  Tract. — Ipecac  is  naturally  a 
local  irritant  in  the  alimentary  canal  as  well  as  externally. 
It  increases  the  flow  of  saliva  and  gastric  juice,  besides 
dilating  the  blood  vessels  of  the  stomach.  Small  doses  are 
stomachic,  improving  the  digestion  and  tone  of  the  gastric 
mucous  membrane,  and,  in  some  cases,  minute  quantities  are 
anti-emetic  in  allaying  vomiting.  Large  doses,  on  the  other 
hand,  cause  a  little  nausea  and  free  vomiting.  It  is  probable 
that  emetine  is  not,  as  frequently  stated,  a  specific  emetic; 
that  is,  it  does  not  act  directly  on  the  vomiting  centre, 
although  vomiting  is  produced,  when  emetine  is  thrown  into 
the  blood,  by  means  of  its  elimination  through  the  stomach. 
This  is  substantiated  by  the  following  facts :  (1)  Emetine  is 
recovered  in  the  first  vomitus  after  its  subcutaneous  injec- 
tion. (2)  Yomition  does  not  occur  so  rapidly,  and  more 
emetine  is  required,  when  the  alkaloid  is  injected  in  place  of 
being  ingested.  (3)  Furthermore,  when  the  vagus  is  pre- 
viously divided,  vomiting  does  not  follow  hyperdermic  medi- 
cation of  emetine.  The  act  does,  however,  follow  the  admin- 
istration of  apomorphine  and  tartar  emetic  under  similar 


450  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

cooditions.  Therefore  it  is  probable  that  in  whatsoever  way- 
ipecac  is  exhibited,  vomiting  proceeds  from  direct  irritation 
of  the  stomach  or  the  vagus  endings  situated  therein.  Ipecac 
and  emetine  do  not  act  so  promptly  as  zinc  sulphate  or 
apomorphine  (under  the  skin).  The  latter  are  accordingly 
preferable  as  evacuants  in  poisoning.  Compared  with  tartar 
emetic,  ipecac  is  less  persistent  and  prostrating  in  its  effect. 
It  is  probably  the  mildest  emetic  at  our  command.  Ipecac 
and  emetine  increase  secretion  and  cause  hypersemia  and 
purging,  sometimes  of  a  bloody  character,  in  their  passage 
through  the  bowels.  Gastro-enteritis  may  follow  the  admin- 
istration of  large  quantities  to  dogs.  Experimental  evidence 
has  shown  that  ipecac  is  an  hepatic  stimulant  (cholagogue), 
increasing  the  secretion  of  bile. 

Circulation. — Medicinal  doses  have  no  influence  on  the 
circulation.  Lethal  doses  paralyze  the  heart  muscle.  The 
act  of  vomiting,  nevertheless,  may  slightly  depress  the 
heart. 

Respiratory  Organs. — The  lungs  are  often  found  intensely 
hypersemic  after  death  by  ipecac  poisoning.  Not  only  this ; 
portions  are  seen  to  be  collapsed  and  consolidated.  In 
therapeutic  doses  the  pulmonary  mucous  membrane  is  stimu- 
lated during  its  elimination  and  is  made  more  vascular ;  the 
secretion  of  bronchial  mucus  is  increased  and  cough  is 
reflexly  excited.  Ipecac  is  thus  strictly  a  stimulating  expect- 
orant in  so  far  as  its  action  on  the  bronchial  mucous  mem- 
brane is  concerned ;  but  it  is,  perhaps  unfortunately  and 
misleadingly,  classed  by  some  (Brunton)  as  a  depressing 
expectorant  because  of  the  side  influence  on  the  circulation. 

Shin. — Ipecac  is  mildly  diarphoretic  in  addition  to 
and  independent  of  this  action  common  to  nauseants  in 
general. 

Toxicology. — The  following  toxic  phenomena  are  exhib- 
ited by  animals  :  vomiting,  loss  of  muscular  power  and 
paralysis,  increased,  followed  by  diminished  reflex  activity, 
failure  of  heart  and  respiration,  and  post  mortem  evidences 
of  congestion  and  inflammation  of  the  lungs  and  intestines. 


IPECAC  451 

Three  ounces  of  ipecac  have  killed  a  horse,  and  two  grains 
of  emetine  have  proved  fatal  to  a  dog. 

Uses.  —  The  indications  for  the  therapeutic  employment 
of  ipecac  may  be  described  under  the  following  heads : 

1.  Emetic  and  anti-emetic. 

2.  Expectorant. 

3.  Diarphoretic. 

4.  Empirically  in  dysentery  and  chronic  diarrhoea. 

1.  Powdered  ipecac  is  a  good  agent  for  dogs,  cats  and 
pigs,  given  in  luke-warm  water,  in  repeated  doses  if  neces- 
sary, to  empty  an  overloaded  stomach.  Also  in  acute 
bronchitis  and  laryngitis  of  dogs  and  cats,  when  the  patient 
is  endangered  by  accumulation  of  secretion,  ipecac,  by  the 
forcible  expulsion  attending  vomiting,  removes  secretion 
from  the  upper  respiratory  tract  and  clears  out  the  stomach 
of  any  secretion  which  may  have  been  swallowed.  Ipecac  is 
efficacious  in  stopping  vomiting  in  cases  of  acute  catarrh  of 
the  stomach  in  dogs,  and  is  given  as  the  wine  with  tincture 
of  aconite,  one  drop  each  in  a  drachm  of  ice  water,  at  half 
hour  intervals.  The  drug  is  also  of  service  in  reflex  vomit- 
ing, and  that  due  to  an  atonic  or  depressed  condition  of  the 
stomach.  Therapeutically,  ipecac  should  only  be  of  value  in 
the  latter  disorder,  but  it  nevertheless  is  often  efficient  in  the 
vomiting  of  irritative  dyspepsia,  as  noted  above. 

2.  Ipecac  is  prescribed  in  the  first  stage  of  acute  bron- 
<}hitis,  when  the  secretion  is  scanty,  and  again  in  bronchitis  of 
long  standing,  to  stimulate  the  bronchial  mucous  membrane. 
It  may  be  given  to  dogs  and  cats  in  repeated  expectorant 
doses  of  the  wine  or  syrup,  with  other  expectorants,  diarpho- 
retics  and  diuretics,  as  syrup  of  squill  and  spirit  of  nitrous 
ether,  or  as  Dover's  powder,  to  all  animals. 

3.  Ipecac  is  a  feeble  diarphoretic,  and  inferior  to  sweet 
spirit  of  nitre,  aconite,  alcohol  or  external  heat,  for  general 
sudorific  purposes.  The  combination  of  opium  and  ipecac, 
in  Dover's  powder,  is  an  appropriate  mixture  to  relieve  pain 
and  cause  diarphoresis  in  acute  rheumatism,  and  may  cut 
short  attacks  of  acute  inflammation  of  the  respiratory  tract. 


452  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

4.  Ipecac  is  probably  the  best  single  remedy  for  the 
treatment  of  dysentery.  It  should  be  given  in  the  form  of 
powder,  bolus,  or  pill  every  four  hours,  combined  with 
opium  to  prevent  nausea  or  vomiting.  Extemporaneous 
decoctions  are  likewise  useful  given  in  the  form  of  enemata,. 
and  may  take  ihe  place  of  the  drug  by  the  mouth  in. 
dysentery  or  chronic  diarrhoea.  Ipecac  has  been  used 
successfully  in  the  treatment  of  anthrax,  in  man,  by  dusting 
the  powdered  drug  over  the  external  lesion  and  giving  it 
internally  every  two  hours. 


SECTION  VIII.-ANTIPYKETIC    AND    ANTISEPTIC 
ORGANIC  AGENTS. 

Class  1. — Cinchona  and  its  Alkaloids. 

Cinchona.     Cinchona.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Cinchonae  cortex,  B.P.  ;  cortex  chinae,  E. ; 
quinquina,  Fr. ;  chinarinde,  G. 

The  bark  of  Cinchona  calisaya  Weddell,  Cinchona 
ofl&cialis  Linne,  and  of  hybrids  of  these  and  of  other  species 
of  cinchona  (nat.  ord.  Rubiaceae),  yielding  when  assayed  not 
less  than  5  per  cent,  of  total  alkaloids,  and  at  least  2.5  per 
cent,  of  quinine. 

Habitat — Indigenous  in  South  America  on  the  east 
slope  of  the  Andes,  and  northwards  into  Colombia ;  south- 
wards to  the  lower  part  of  Bolivia,  at  altitudes  varying  from 
5,000  to  10,000  ft.  Cultivated  in  India,  East  Indies,  Jamaica,, 
and  to  some  extent  in  South  America. 

Description. — In  quills  or  incurved  pieces,  varying  in 
length,  and  usually  2  or  3  or  sometimes  5  Mm.  thick.  The 
outer  surface  covered  with  a  gray  or  brownish-gray  cork, 
usually  slightly  wrinkled,  marked  with  transverse,  and  also 
with  intersecting,  longitudinal  fissures  (C.  Calisaya),  and 
sometimes   with   scattered   warts    and   slight,   longitudinal 


CINCHONA 


453 


*  Isomers 


ridges;  inner  surface  light  cinnamon-brown,  very  finely 
striate  ;  fracture  short  and  granular  in  the  outer  layer,  and 
finely  fibrous  in  the  inner  layer ;  powder,  light  brown  or 
yellowish-brown ;  odor  slight,  somewhat  aromatic ;  taste 
bitter  and  somewhat  astringent. 

Constituents. — (a)  Four  chip/  alkaloids  and  three  artificial 
products, 

(1)  Quinine  (C^oH^^N^O^  +  3  H^O).  Solutions 
of  its  salts  are  fluorescent.  Turns  plane  of 
polarization  to  left.  Gives  green  color  with 
ammonia  and  chlorine  water.  Precipitated 
from  its  salts  as  hydrate. 

(2)  Quinidine  ( CjoHo^NoOa).  Solutions  of  its 
salts  fluorescent.  Differs  from  quinine  in  turn- 
ing plane  of  polarization  to  right,  and  in  being 
insoluble  in  ammonia  except  in  excess. 

(Quinicine  is  an  artificial  amorphous  alkaloid,  probably  not  occur- 
ring naturally,  and  obtained  from  quinine  by  heat  and  excess  of  a 
mineral  acid.  Quinoidine  is  a  cheap  brown  amorphous  substance 
obtained  from  the  mother  liquor  after  quinine  sulphate  has  crystallized 
out,  and  contains  a  mixture  of  quinidine  cinchonine  and  cinchonidine.) 

.    (3)   Cinchonine  (C19H22N2O).     Is  not  fluores- 
cent.    Turns   plane   of    polarization   to   right. 
Does  not  assume  a  green  color  with  ammonia 
*  Isomers   -!  or  chlorine  water. 

(4)  Cinchonidine    (C19H22N2O)     is     slightly 
fluorescent.      Turns   plane    of   polarization   to 
[  left. 

Cinchonicine  is  an  artificial  alkaloid  obtained  from  cinchonine  by 
heat  and  an  excess  of  a  mineral  acid. 

Some  other  alkaloids  of  no  particular  importance  are  : 

Quinamina  (Ci9H24NaOa). 
Paricina  (CieHisNaO). 
Aricina,  etc. 


*  Isomers  are  bodies  composed  of  the  same  elements,  in  the  same 
proportions,  but  possessing  different  chemical  or  physical  properties. 


454  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

(h)  Less  Important  Const{ttients.—{5)  Kinic,  or  quinic 
acid  (C-HijOg),  occurs  in  colorless  prisms.  Related  to  benzoic 
acid  and  eliminated  in  the  urine  as  hippuricaeid.  Found  in 
coffee  beans  and  other  vegetables. 

The  alkaloids  in  cinchona  are  naturally  united  with 
kinic  or  kinovic  acid,  and  salts  of  this  combination  are  used 
in  medicine  ;  i.e.,  quinine  kinate,  which  is  soluble  and  may 
be  employed  subcutaneously. 

(6)  Kinovic,  or  quinovic  acid  (CjjH^gOg),  a  white,  amor- 
phous substance  allied  to  kinovin. 

(7)  Kinovin,  or  quinovin  (CgpH^gO,),  a  glucoside  readily 
decomposed  into  glucose  and  kinovic  acid. 

(8)  Cincho-taunic  acid,  or  kino-tannic  and  kinovi-tannic 
acid  (2-4  per  cent.).  The  astringent  principle  of  cinchona. 
Distinguished  from  tannic  acid  in  yielding  green  color  with 
ferric  salts. 

(9)  Cinchona  red,  the  coloring  matter  of  cinchona  bark. 
Nearly  insoluble  in  water. 

(10)  A  volatile  oil  existing  in  minute  amount. 

(11)  Starch,  gum,  resin  and  salts  common  to  other 
vegetable  matters. 

Incompatihility. — Cinchona  is  incompatible  with  lime 
water,  ammonia,  metallic  salts  or  gelatin. 

Dose.~R.,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  C,  3  i  -ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &Sw., 
3  i.-iv.  (4.-15.) ;  D.  &  C,  gr.x.-  3  i.  (.6-4.). 

PREPARATIONS.  ' 

Extractum  Cinchonce  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Cinchona. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  glycerin,  alcohol  and 
water  ;  evaporation  of  the  last  portion  of  the  percolate,  and  addition  of 
the  residue  to  first  portion,  with  enough  water  and  alcohol  to  make 
1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  crude  drug.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose  —Same  as  cinchona. 

Extractum  Cinchonce.     Extract  of  Cinchona.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol  and  water  ;  dis- 
tillation of  alcohol  and  evaporation  to  pilular  consistence. 
Dose.— H.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.) ;  D.,  gr.v.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 


RED   CINCHONA  455 

Infusum  Cinchonce.    Infusion  of  Cinchona.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  percolation  of  cinchona,  60  ;  with  aromatic  sulphuric 
acid,  10  ;  and  water  to  make  1000. 

Dose.— H.,  Oi.  (500.)  ;  D.,  3  ii-iv.  (8.-15.). 

Infusum  CinchoncB  Acidum.    (B.  P.) 
Dose.— H.,  Oi.  (500.);  D.,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.). 

Tinctura  Cinchonce.    Tincture  of  Cinchona.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  cinchona,  200 ;  with 
glycerin,  75;  and  alcohol  and  water  a  sufficient  quantity  to  make  1000. 
(U.S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.,  §i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  D.,  3  ss.-ii.  (2.-8.). 


Cinchona  Kubra.     Red  Cinchona. 

Cinchonae  rubrge  cortex,  B.  P.  The  bark  of  Cinchona 
succirubra  Pavon  (nat.  ord.  Rubiacese),  containing  not  less 
than  5  per  cent,  of  its  peculiar  alkaloids. 

Habitat — Ecuador,  west  of  Chimborazo. 

Description. — In  quills  or  incurved  pieces,  varying  in 
length,  and  from  2  to  4  or  5  Mm.  thick ;  the  outer  surface 
covered  with  a  grayish-brown  cork,  more  or  less  rough  from 
warts  and  longitudinal,  watery  ridges,  and  from  few,  mostly 
short,  transverse  fissures ;  inner  surface  more  or  less  deep 
reddish-brown  and  distinctly  striate ;  fracture  short-fibrous 
in  the  inner  layer;  powder  reddish-brown;  odor  slight; 
taste  bitter  and  astringent. 

Constituents. — Same  as  cinchona. 

Dose. — Same  as  cinchona. 

PREPARATION. 

Tinctura  Cinchonce  Composita.    Compound  Tincture  of  Cinchona. 
(U.  S.  &B.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  red  cinchona,  100  ;  bitter 
orange  peel,  80 ;  serpentaria,  20  ;  with  glycerin,  75  ;  and  alcohol  and 
water  to  make  1000.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.,  ^  ii-iv.  (60.-120.);  D.,  3  ss.-iv.  (2.-15.) 


466  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Quinine  Sulphas.     Quinine  Sulphate.     (C2oH2,N20j)3 
H,SO,  +  7  H,0.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Chininum  sulfuricum,  P.G.;  sulfas  quinicus, 
disulphate  or  basic  sulphate  of  quinia,  E.;  sulphate  de 
quinine,  Fr.;  schwefelsaures  chinin,  G. 

Derivation. — Prepared  by  boiling  cinchona  bark  with 
hydrochloric  acid  and  adding  lime  to  the  filtered  decoction 
to  precipitate  alkaloids  and  coloring  matter.  The  precipitate 
is  washed  and  digested  in  boiling  alcohol  to  dissolve  quinine 
and  cinchonine.  The  alcohol  is  distilled  off  and  the  residue 
dissolved  in  diluted  sulphuric  acid,  boiled  with  animal  char- 
coal, filtered,  and  quinine  sulphate  crystallizes,  leaving 
cinchonine  sulphate  in  solution. 

Proper-ties. — White,  silky,  light  and  fine  needle-shaped 
crystals ;  fragile  and  somewhat  flexible,  making  a  very  light 
and  easily  compressible  mass ;  lustreless  from  superficial 
efflorescence  after  being  for  some  time  exposed  to  the  air ; 
odorless,  and  having  a  persistent  and  very  bitter  taste.  The 
salt  is  liable  to  lose  water  on  exposure  to  warm  air,  to  absorb 
moisture  in  damp  air,  and  to  become  colored  by  exposure  to 
light.  Soluble  at  15°  C.  (59°  R),  in  740  parts  of  water,  and 
iu  65  parts  of  alcohol ;  in  30  parts  of  boiling  water;  also  in 
40  parts  of  glycerin  ;  in  about  680  parts  of  chloroform,  and 
freely  in  dilute  acids. 

Incompatihles. — Alkalies  and  their  carbonates,  iodine,  and 
tannic  acid. 

Dose.—R.  (tonic),  gr.xv.-  3  i.  (1.-4.) ;  C,  3  ss.-i.ss.  (2.-6.) ; 
Sh.  <fe  Sw.,  gr.v.-x.  (.3-.6) ;  D.  &  Cats,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.12).  Anti- 
pyretic Dose— H.  &  C,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.) ;  Sh.,  gr.xxx.-xl. 
(2.-2.6) ;  Sw.,  gr.xv. -XXV.  (1.-1.6) ;  D.  &  Cats,  gr.v.-x.  (.3-.6). 

Quinine  Bisulphas.     Quinine  Bisulphate.     C^^^^jO^ 
H,SO,  4-7HA     (U.S.&B.P.) 

Derivation. — Made  by  the  action  of  sulphuric  acid  on 
quinine  sulphate  suspended  in  water ;  filtration  and  crystal- 
lization. 


QUININE   HYDROBROMATE  457 

Properties. — Colorless,  transparent  or  whitish,  ortho- 
rhombic  crystals  or  small  needles  ;  odorless,  and  having  a 
very  bitter  taste  ;  efflorescing  on  exposure  to  the  air  ;  soluble 
in  10  parts  of  cold  water  and  in  32  parts  of  alcohol ;  very 
soluble  in  boiling  water  and  in  boiling  alcohol. 

Dose. — Practically  same  as  quinine  sulphate,  but  theo- 
retically it  should  be  slightly  larger.  The  salt  is  very  soluble, 
but  is  commonly  made  extemporaneously  by  adding  diluted 
sulphuric  acid  (Q.  S.)  to  quinine  sulphate  in  preparing 
solutions  for  medicinal  use.  The  salt  is  serviceable  for 
administration  in  pill ;  or  for  hypodermic  injection,  when 
it  should  be  given  in  about  one-third  smaller  dose  than  that 
of  quinine  sulphate  by  the  mouth. 

QuiNiNiE  Hydrobromas.     Quinine  Hydrobromate. 
C,oH,,N,0,  H  Br  -h  HA    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Made  by  the  action  of  barium  bromide,  in 
solution,  on  quinine  sulphate  suspended  in  water  ;  filtration, 
evaporation,  and  crystallization. 

Properties. — White,  light,  silky  needles ;  odorless,  and 
having  a  very  bitter  taste.  The  salt  is  likely  to  lose  water 
on  exposure  to  warm  or  dry  air.  Soluble  in  54  parts  of 
cold  water,  and  in  0.6  part  of  alcohol ;  very  soluble  in 
boiling  water  and  boiling  alcohol ;  also  soluble  in  6  parts  of 
ether  and  in  12  parts  of  chloroform. 

Dose. — Same  as  quinine  sulphate. 

Quinine  Hydrochloras.     Quinine  Hydrochlorate. 
C,oH,,N,0,  H  CI  4-  2  H,0.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Made  by  the  action  of  hydrochloric  acid 
on  quinine,  and  by  crystallization. 

Properties. — White,  silky,  light  and  fine,  needle-shaped 
crystals  ;  odorless,  and  having  a  very  bitter  taste.  The  salt 
is  liable  to  lose  water  when  exposed  to  warm  air.  Soluble 
in  34  parts  of  cold  water,  and  in  3  parts  of  alcohol ;  in  1  part 


458  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

of  boiling  water,  and  very  soluble  in  boiling  alcohol ;  also- 
soluble  in  9  parts  of  chloroform. 

Dose, — Same  as  quinine  sulphate. 

Quinine   Talerianas.     Quinine  Valerianate. 
C,oH,,N,0,C,HioO,  +  H,0.    (U.  S.  <fe  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Made  by  decomposition  of  quinine  sulphate 
with  ammonia,  followed  by  the  immediate  action  of  valerianic 
acid,  and  crystallization  from  a  cold  solution. 

Properties. — White,  or  nearly  white,  pearly,  lustrous^ 
triclinic  crystals,  having  a  slight  odor  of  valerianic  acid,  and 
a  bitter  taste.  Permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble  in  100  parts 
of  cold  water,  and  in  5  parts  of  alcohol;  in  40  parts  of 
boiling  water,  and  in  1  part  of  alcohol. 

Dose. — D.,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.  12).     Three  times  daily  as  tonic. 

Quinine  Bimuriatis  Carbamas.     Double  Muriate  of  Quinine 
and  Urea.     (Non-official.) 

Very  soluble  and  contains  about  61  per  cent,  of  quinine. 
Dose. — Same  as  quinine  sulphate,  but  used  subcutane- 
ously  in  50  per  cent,  aqueous  solution. 

Chinoidinum  or  Quinoidinum.     Chinoidine  or  Quinoidine. 

Brown,  resinous  mass,  containing  mixture  of  quinidine, 
cinchonine  and  cinchonidine.  A  cheap  substitute  for  quinine 
sulphate. 

Dose. — Three  or  four  times  that  of  quinine  sulphate. 

QuiNiDiNiE  Sulphas.    Quinidine  Sulphate.    (C^^^fi^^ 
H,SO,  +  2  H,0.     (U.  S.  P.) 

The  neutral  sulphate  of  an  alkaloid  obtained  from  the 
bark  of  several  species  of  cinchona  (nat.  ord.  Rubiaceae). 

Synonym. — Sulfate  de  quinidine,  Fr.  ;  schwefelsaures 
chinidin  (cinchinin),  G. 

Derivation. — Recovered  from   quinoidine,  or  from   the 


CINCHONINE   SULPHATE  459 

mother  liquors  a,fter  the  crystallization  of  quinine  sulphate, 
by  the  same  method  as  for  quinine. 

Properties. — White,  silky  needles,  odorless,  and  having 
a  very  bitter  taste  ;  permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble  in  100 
parts  of  cold  water,  and  in  8  parts  of  alcohol ;  in  7  parts  of 
boiling  water,  and  very  soluble  in  boiling  alcohol ;  also  in 
14  parts  of  chloroform  and  in  acidulated  water ;  almost 
insoluble  in  ether. 

Dose. — One-third  larger  than  quinine  sulphate. 

CiNCHONiNvE  Sulphas.     Cinchonine  Sulphate.     (CigH^jNjO), 
H,SO,  +  2  H,0.      (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Obtained  from  the  mother  liquors  after  the 
crystallization  of  the  sulphates  of  quinine,  quinidine  and 
cinchonidine,  by  precipitation  with  caustic  soda,  washing 
with  alcohol  to  free  it  from  other  alkaloids,  solution  in 
sulphuric  acid,  and  by  purification  with  animal  charcoal,  and 
crystallization. 

Properties. — Hard,  white,  lustrous,  prismatic  crystals, 
without  odor,  and  having  a  very  bitter  taste.  Permanent  in 
the  air.  Soluble  in  QQ  parts  of  cold  water,  and  in  10  parts 
of  alcohol ;  in  13.59  parts  of  boiling  water,  and  in  3.25  parts 
of  boiling  alcohol.  Also  soluble  in  78  parts  of  chloroform, 
but  almost  insoluble  in  ether. 

Dose. — One- third  larger  than  that  of  quinine  sulphate. 

Cinchonidine  Sulphas.     Cinchonidine  Sulphate. 
(C,,H,,N,0),  H,SO,  +  3  H,0.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Procured  from  the  paother  liquors,  after 
the  crystallization  of  quinine  sulphate,  by  further  con- 
centration. Purified  by  crystallization  from  alcohol,  and 
finally  from  hot  water. 

Properties. — White,  silky,  acicular  crystals,  without  odor, 
and  having  a  very  bitter  taste ;  slightly  efflorescent  on  ex- 
posure to  air.  Soluble  in  70  parts  of  cold  water,  and  in  66 
parts  of  alcohol ;  in  1.42  parts  of  boiling  water,  and  in  8  parts 


460  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

of  boiling  alcohol ;  also  soluble  in  1316  parts  of  chloroform, 
and  almost  insoluble  in  ether. 

Dose. — One-third  larger  than  that  of  quinine  sulphate. 

CINCHONA  AND  ITS  ALKALOIDS  AS  REPRESENTED  BY  QUININE. 

Action  External. — Quinine  is  a  powerful  antiseptic  and 
microbicide.  A  solution  (1  to  250)  of  the  alkaloid  or  its 
salts  are  poisonous  to  the  fungi  of  fermentation  and  putre- 
faction. A  one  per  cent,  solution  quickly  destroys  bacteria 
and  vibrios,  but  spores  may  live  in  it  for  some  days.  Quinine 
and  its  salts  cause  irritation  of  the  denuded  skin,  or  mucous 
membranes,  but  exert  no  effect  upon  the  unbroken  skin. 

Action  Interned. — Digestive  Tract. — Quinine,  in  -  thera- 
peutic doses,  acts  as  a  simple  bitter  (stomachic),  and  there- 
fore promotes  appetite  and  gastric  digestion.  It  stimulates 
the  gustatory  nerves  in  the  mouth  and  gastric  nerves  in  the 
stomach,  thus  reflexly  increasing  the  flow  of  saliva  and 
gastric  juice,  and  the  vascularity  and  peristaltic  motion  of 
the  stomach  together  with  the  appetite.  Large  doses, 
particularly  if  the  stomach  be  irritable,  may  cause  vomiting. 
Quinine  becomes  dissolved  in  the  gastric  juice  and  is  con- 
verted into  the  chloride.  A  portion  unabsorbed  finds  its  way 
into  the  bowels  and  is  there  precipitated  by  the  alkaline 
juices  and  bile,  whose  acids  form  insoluble  salts  with  quinine, 
unless  the  bile  is  in  great  excess.  For  this  reason  it  is  often 
customary  in  practice  to  give  a  chologogue  cathartic  to  expel 
bile  before  the  administration  of  quinine. 

Blood. — Quinine  is  absorbed  into  the  blood,  and  would 
naturally  be  precipitated  in  this  alkaline  fluid ;  but  this  is 
not  the  case,  and  it  has  been  shown  that  quinine  is  probably 
held  in  solution  by  the  loosely  combined  carbonic  dioxide 
gas  in  the  blood.  Quinine  possesses  several  well-defined 
and  important  actions  in  relation  to  the  blood. 

1.  White  Blood  Corpuscles. — Quinine  in  great  dilution 
lessens  the  amoeboid  movements  of  the  white  corpuscles  in 
blood  removed  from  the  body.  When  a  frog  receives  large 
doses  of  quinine  and  its  mesentery  is  irritated,  the  white 


ACTION  AND  USES  OF  QUININE  461 

corpuscles  do  not  collect  in  the  arterioles  or  migrate  through, 
their  walls  (diapedesis).  Again,  when  inflammation  has 
already  begun  in  the  mesentery,  quinine  stops  the  trans- 
migration of  leucocytes  and  disperses  those  already  ac- 
cumulated in  the  blood  vessels.  Moreover,  large  doses 
appear  to  actually  lessen  the  number  of  white  corpuscles 
in  the  blood.  The  foregoing  actions  should  make  quinine 
invaluable  in  checking  inflammation.  How  great  this  influ- 
ence may  be,  when  quinine  is  given  in  medicinal  doses,  it  is 
•impossible  to  determine. 

2.  Red  Blood  Corpuscles. — Therapeutic  doses  increase 
the  number  of  red  corpuscles.  The  latter  diminish  in  size 
in  febrile  conditions,  but,  under  the  action  of  quinine  (and 
other  antipyretic  agencies),  regain  their  normal  condition. 
This  follows  the  effect  of  quinine  in  lowering  temperature, 
and  is  not  due  to  any  specific  power  of  quinine  exerted  on  the 
corpuscles  themselves. 

3.  Oxidation. — Quinine  hinders  the  red  corpuscles  from 
serving  as  carriers  of  ozone  and  also  prevents  them  from 
yielding  it  to  the  tissues.  In  this  way  functional  activity  of 
tissue  cells  is  diminished  and  metabolism  decreased.  Quinine 
also  lessens  the  ozonizing  power  of  vegetable  juices.  The 
alkaloid  prevents  the  development  of  acidity  in  blood  outside 
the  body,  which  is  thought  to  be  the  product  of  oxidation. 

Heart  and  Blood  Vessels. — Quinine  in  moderate  doses 
does  not  affect  the  heart  or  vessels  appreciably.  It  is  some- 
times stated  that  small  doses  reflexly  stimulate  the  heart  (in 
stimulating  the  stomach),  or  that  they  indirectly  stimulate 
the  heart  and  vessels  by  stimulating  the  whole  system. 
Quinine,  in  very  large  doses,  is  a  depressant  to  the  circula- 
tion, decreasing  the  pulse  rate,  force,  and  tension.  When 
injected  into  a  vein  or  directly  applied  to  the  cardiac  muscle, 
quinine  causes  diastolic  arrest  of  the  heart  by  paralyzing 
the  cardiac  muscle  or  its  contained  ganglia.  In  poisoning 
by  quinine  there  is  vascular  dilatation  and  great  fall  of 
blood  pressure  preceded  by  a  temporary  rise.  This  pheno- 
menon follows  direct  action  on  the  blood  vessels.    Although 


462  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

the  pulse  is  at  first  slowed,  the  vagus  becomes  finally  para- 
lyzed in  poisoning,  and  the  pulse  is  rapid  and  imperceptible 
in  the  later  stages. 

Nervous  System. — Toxic  doses  of  quinine  injected  into 
the  carotid  artery  cause  meningitis  by  direct  irritation. 
Large  doses  will  also  produce  congestion  and  extravasation 
of  blood  into  the  middle  ear  and  labyrinth,  and  will  give  rise 
to  epileptiform  convulsions  in  the  lower  animals.  In  mau, 
ringing  in  the  ears,  fulness  in  the  head,  and  slight  deafness 
commonly  follow  a  large  medicinal  dose  (cinchonism).- 
There  is  some  clinical  evidence  that  quinine  in  medicinal 
doses  is  a  cerebral  stimulant,  but  there  is  no  experimental 
proof  of  the  fact. 

Spinal  Cord  and  Nerves. — Quinine,  as  shown  by  experi- 
ments conducted  on  the  frog,  lessens  reflex  activity  after 
small  doses.  This  condition  disappears  on  section  of  the 
medulla.  Large  doses,  however,  cause  permanent  loss  of 
reflex  excitability.  The  same  alkaloid  first  excites  and  then 
paralyzes  the  peripheral  sensory  nerve  endings.  Muscular 
contractility  is  also  diminished  by  large  doses  of  quinine. 

Uterus. — Quinine  is  thought  by  many  to  be  an  abortifa- 
cient.  There  is  no  sufficient  warrant  for  this  conclusion. 
There  is,  nevertheless,  considerable  testimony  affirming  that 
the  alkaloid  stimulates  uterine  contraction;'S  in  inertia  during 
parturition,  but  at  the  same  time  increases  the  likelihood  of 
metrorrhagia. 

Kidneys,  Metabolism  and  Elimination. — Quinine  lessens 
the  secretion  of  uric  acid  and,  to  a  somewhat  less  extent, 
that  of  urea.  Tissue  waste  must  therefore  be  reduced.  This 
is  in  accordance  with  our  knowledge  of  its  power  to  lessen 
oxidation  and  protoplasmic  activity.  It  is  curious  to  note 
in  this  connection  that  the  excretion  of  carbonic  dioxide  by 
the  lungs  is  not  notably  decreased.  Quinine  is  eliminated 
chiefly  by  the  kidneys,  but  more  or  less  is  unabsorbed  and 
passes  away  in  the  faeces.  While  its  excretion  in  the  urine 
begins  soon  after  its  ingestion,  and  lasts  for  some  days,  the 
gT-eater  amount  escapes  within  forty-eight  hours.    Quinine  is 


ACTION   AND   USES   OF   QUININE  463 

found  in  minute  amount  in  the  bile,  tears,  saliva,  milk,  etc., 
after  its  administration. 

Antipyretic  Action. — Quinine  does  not  alter  the  normal 
temperature  of  a  healthy  animal,  but  does  reduce  tempera- 
ture in  fever.  The  amount  of  reduction  depends  upon  the 
cause  of  the  fever.  An  explanation  of  the  antipyretic  power 
of  the  alkaloid  may  include  : 

1.  The  antiseptic  property  of  quinine.  This  is  most 
marked  in  the  case  of  the  plasmodium  malarias,  which  is 
destroyed  by  the  alkaloid,  and  the  malarial  fever  is  therefore 
overcome. 

2.  In  lessening  reflex  excitability.  Whatever  may  be  the 
cause  of  fever,  the  nervous  system  is  the  potent  instrumen- 
tality ill  its  production. 

3.  In  diminishing  oxidation,  activity  of  cellular  proto- 
plasm and  heat  formation. 

4.  Direct  depressing  action  on  the  cerebral  calorificient 
centres. 

Administration. — Quinine  sulphate  is  usually  given  to 
horses  in  aqueous  solution  with  sufficient  diluted  sulphuric 
acid  to  dissolve  the  salt.  It  may  also  be  administered  to 
these  animals  in  ball,  gelatine  capsule,  enema  or  subcutane- 
ously.  Quinine  is  exhibited  to  dogs  in  pills,  solution  or 
suppositories.  The  alkaloid  is  not  commonly  injected  under 
the  skin,  because  local  irritation  and  abscess  may  follow; 
but  this  does  not  frequently  happen  in  the  horse.  The 
bisulphate,  hydrobromate  and  liydrochlorate  are  most  suit- 
able for  hypodermic  use.  The  first  salt  is  more  soluble,  but 
the  latter  two  are  less  irritating. 

At  a  temperature  of  45«>  C.  (113<=*  F.) 

Quinine  bisulphate  is  soluble  in 8.8    parts  of  water. 

Quinine  hydrobromate  is  soluble  in 45.02      **      "       *' 

Quinine  liydrochlorate  is  soluble  in 21.4       *'     **        " 

This  temperature  may  be  used  for  subcutaneous  injection, 
but  the  salts  should  be  thoroughly  dissolved  and  one  grain 
of  tartaric  acid  should  be  added  to  each  five  grains  of  quinine 
bisulphate,  in  order  that  precipitation  may  not  occur  in  the 


464  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

tissues.  The  dose  by  the  subcutaneous  method  is  one-third 
less  than  by  the  mouth. 

The  sulphates  of  quinidine,  cinchonine  and  cinchonidiue 
are  similar  in  action  to  quinine,  and  their  relative  antipyretic 
effect  is  said  to  be :  quinine,  100 ;  quinidine,  90  ;  cinchonidiue, 
70 ;  cinchonine,  40.  The  cinchona  compounds  are  indicated 
for  tonic  and  stomachic  purposes. 

Uses  External. — Quinine  is  too  expensive  for  general 
antiseptic  employment  externally. 

Uses  Internal. — It  is  impossible  to  draw  definite  deduc- 
tions as  to  the  therapeutic  indications  for  quinine  founded 
on  physioloj];ical  experiments,  since  these  are  only  sugges- 
tive and  not  conclusive.  For  the  sake  of  convenience,  we 
may  classify  the  uses  of  quinine  under  the  following  heads : 

1.  Tonic  Action. — Quinine  is  of  unquestionable  value  as 
a  tonic,  more  particularly  in  relation  to  digestion,  but  prob- 
ably also  by  increasing  the  number  of  red  corpuscles  and 
stimulating  the  nervous  system  generally.  It  is  in  those 
cases  of  anorexia  and  atonic  dyspepsia  secondary  to  exhaus- 
tion, overwork,  anaemia,  or  following  acute  diseases,  that  the 
drug  is  indicated.  Here,  combination  with  iron  is  often  of 
service,  and  the  tincture  of  the  chloride  is  a  good  preparation 
because  it  contains  sufficient  free  muriatic  acid  to  dissolve 
any  of  the  salts  of  quinine.  The  compound  tincture  of 
cinchona  is  a  prime,  bitter  tonic  for  dogs ;  or  quinine  may  be 
given  in  a  pill  with  reduced  iron  and  arsenic  as  a  tonic. 
Chorea  in  the  human  patient  nas  been  treated  successfully 
with  quinine,  but  this  remedy  has  failed  in  dogs.  Neverthe- 
less, the  alkaloid  is  an  excellent  tonic  in  canine  distemper 
with  its  accompanying  anaemia,  but  should  be  combined  with 
iron  and  arsenic.  Quinine  is  a  good  tonic  for  purpura  in 
horses. 

2.  Antiseptic  and  Antiphlogistic  Effect. — Quinine  possesses 
much  less  antipyretic  power  than  phenacetin,  anti pyrin 
and  acetanilid.  It  acts  more  favorably  with  a  falling  than 
a  rising  temperature,  and  should  be  given  two  or  three  hours 
before  the  probable  time  of  maximum  temperature.    Quinine 


ACTION  AND   USES   OF   QUININE  465 

is  employed  in  many  acute  diseases,  such  as  influenza, 
bronchitis  and  pneumonia  of  horses.  In  full  doses,  at  the 
outset  of  colds  or  inflammatory  diseases  of  the  respiratory 
tract,  quiniue  may  prove  abortifacient.  Later  in  these 
diseases  the  drug  may  be  given  as  an  antipyretic  and  anti- 
phlogistic (without  much  benefit  probably),  but  in  the  con- 
valescent stages  quinine,  in  small  doses,  becomes  of  great 
worth  as  a  tonic.  Some  experiments  involving  the  injection 
of  putrid  material  into  the  blood  of  dogs,  appeared  to  indi- 
cate that  quinine  had  a  restraining  influence  on  the  resulting 
septic  state,  and,  in  some  cases,  saved  life. 

Puerperal  fever  and  erysipelatous  inflammation  yield 
somewhat  to  quinine,  and  the  drug  should  be  tried  in  these 
infections.  The  alkaloid  does  not  lower  the  temperature  or 
prove  destructive  to  the  micrococci  of  pyaemia.  A  va'st 
number  of  cases  of  rheumatic  fever  have  beeji  treated  with 
quinine  in  human  practice,  but  the  results  are  inferior  to 
those  obtained  by  salicylates.  In  subacute  and  chronic 
muscular  rheumatism  quinine  is  sometimes  useful.  It  has 
been  injected  into  the  affected  muscles  in  this  disorder,  in 
horses,  with  favorable  results. 

The  alkaloids  of  cinchona  may  be  used  as  antipyretics  in 
all  acute  diseases  with  the  exception  of  meningitis,  cerebritis, 
gastritis,  nephritis  and  cystitis,  where  they  produce  too 
much  irritation.  They  are  also  contra-indicated  in  epilepsy 
and  middle-ear  disease. 

3.  Specific  Properties, — Quinine  stands  preeminent  in  the 
treatment  of  malaria,  as  it  is  the  only  drug  which  can  be 
relied  upon  to  kill  malarial  organisms.  While  periodicity 
in  the  febrile  attacks  is  characteristic  of  malaria,  an  absolute 
diagnosis  can  only  be  made  by  the  discovery  of  Laveran's 
Plasmodium  in  the  red  blood  corpuscles.  Malaria  but  rarely 
affects  the  lower  animals  in  this  part  of  the  country  (New 
England),  although  exceedingly  common  among  human 
beings.  Cases  are  said  to  occur  not  infrequently  among 
horses  and  cattle  in  India.  A  single  full  antipyretic  dose  of 
quinine,  if  given  from  twelve  to  six  hours  before  a  promised 


466  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

malarial  attack,  will  usually  prevent  it.  A  single  large  dose 
should  be  given  once  daily  for  several  days  thereafter.  When 
the  disease  is  severe,  treatment  may  also  be  pursued  by  the 
rectal  and  hypodermic  methods  at  the  same  time  that 
quinine  is  given  by  the  mouth.  A  purge  of  aloes  and  calomel 
should  be  exhibited  prior  to  the  administration  of  quinine  in 
the  treatment  of  malaria. 


Class  2.— Salicylic  Acid,  Salicin,  Salol,  Oil  of 
Q-aultheria  and  Methyl  Salicylate. 

AciDUM  Salicyucum.     Salicylic  Acid.     HC.H5O3. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym.— Acid  salicylique,  Fr.  ;  salicylsaiire,  G. 

An  organic  acid,  existing  naturally  in  combination  in 
various  plants,  but  chiefly  prepared  synthetically  from  car- 
bolic acid. 

Derivation. — Made  by  passing  carbonic  dioxide  through 
sodium  carbolate  at  a  temperature  of  428°  F.  (220°C)- 
2  Na  CeHjO  (sodium  carbolate)  +  CO^  =  Na^CH.Og  (sodium 
salicylate)  +  CgHgO  (phenol).  Sodium  salicylate  is  treated 
with  hydrochloric  acid,  when  salicylic  acid  is  precipitated. 
Na,C,H,03  i-  2  H  CI  =  HC.H.O,  +  2  Na  01. 

Properties. — Light,  fine,  white,  prismatic  needles,  or  a 
light,  white,  crystalline  powder;  odorless,  having  a  sweetish, 
afterward  acrid  taste,  and  permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble  in 
about  450  parts  of  cold  water,  and  in  2.4  parts  of  alcohol ; 
in  14  parts  of  boiling  water,  and  very  soluble  in  boiling 
alcohol.  Also  soluble  in  2  parts  of  ether,  2  parts  of  absolute 
alcohol,  and  80  parts  of  chloroform. 

Incompatible. — Spirit  of  nitrous  ether. 

Impurities. — In  artificial  salicylic  acid,  metacreosotic  and 
orthocreosotic  acids. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  3  ii.-  §  i.  (8.-30.) ;  Sh.,  3  i.-iv.  (4.-15  ) ; 
Sw.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.) ;  D.,  gr.v.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 


SA.LICIN  467 

Salicinum.     Salicin.     Ci3H,,0,.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

A  neutral  principle  (glucoside)  obtained  from  several 
species  of  Salix  and  Populus  (nat.  ord.  Salicacese). 

Habitat. — Europe,  but  cultivated  in  North  America. 

Derivation. — Obtained  from  a  decoction  of  willow  bark. 
Salicin  crystallizes  on  evaporation,  after  removal  of  tannin 
by  agitation  with  lead  oxide.  It  is  purified  by  repeated 
solution  and  crystallization. 

Properties. — Colorless,  or  white,  silky,  shining  crystal- 
line needles,  or  a  crystalline  powder ;  odorless,  and  having 
a  very  bitter  taste.  Permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble  in  28 
parts  of  water,  and  in  30  parts  of  alcohol ;  almost  insoluble 
in  ether  or  chloroform. 

Dose.—Bi.  &  C,  3ii.-!i.  (8.-30.);  Sh.,  3i.-iv.  (4.-15.); 
Sw.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.) ;  D.,  gr.v.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

SoDii  Salicylas.     Sodium  Salicylate.     Na  C.H.Og. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Silicylate  de  soude,  Fr.;  natrium  salicyli- 
cum,  G. 

Derivation. — Made  by  the  action  of  salicylic  acid  on 
sodium  carbonate.  2  HC,H303  +  Na^CO,  =  2  Na  C:H,03  + 
H2O  +  CO2.  The  solution  is  filtered,  and  heated  to  expel 
carbon  dioxide. 

Properties. — A  white,  amorphous  powder  ;  odorless,  and 
having  a  sweetish,  saline  taste.  Permanent  in  cool  air. 
Soluble  in  0.9  part  of  water,  and  in  6  parts  of  alcohol ;  very 
soluble  in  boiling  water  or  alcohol ;  also  soluble  in  glycerin. 

Dose. — Same  as  salicin. 

Salol.     Salol.     CeH,C,H,03.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Phenyl  salicylate,  salicylic  ether  of  phenol. 

Derivation. — Made  by  heating  salicylic  and  carbolic 
acids  with  phosphorus  pentachloride. 

Properties. — A  white,  crystalline  powder;  odorless,  or 
having  a  faintly  aromatic  odor,  and  almost  tasteless.     Per- 


468  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

manent  in  the  air.  Almost  insoluble  in  water ;  soluble  in  10 
parts  of  alcohol ;  also  soluble  in  0.3  part  of  ether,  and 
readily  in  chloroform  and  in  fixed  or  volatile  oils. 

SALICYLIC   ACID,    SALICIN,    SODIUM   SALICYLATE  AND   SALOL. 

Action  External. — Salicylic  acid,  salicin  and  salol  are 
powerful  antiseptics.  A  solution  of  salicylic  acid  (1-60)  is 
equivalent  to  a  solution  of  carbolic  acid  (1-22)  in  destroying 
some  bacteria,  but  is  not  generally  as  useful.  Salicylic  acid, 
sodium  salicylate  and  salicin  are  irritating  to  the  unbroken 
skin  or  raw  surfaces.  Salol  is  not.  The  salicylates  are  not 
antiseptic,  but  actually  favor  fermentation. 

Action  Internal. — Salicylic  acid  is  an  irritant  in  the 
digestive  tract  and  in  large  doses  causes  nausea  and  vomit- 
ing in  dogs.  It  is  converted  into  salicylates  by  the  alkaline 
intestinal  juices,  and  is  absorbed  in  this  form,  chiefly  as 
sodium  salicylate.  For  this  reason,  and  because  the  latter 
salt  is  less  irritating  than  salicylic  acid,  sodium  salicylate  is 
preferred  to  the  acid  when  a  constitutional  action  is  desired. 
Salicin  splits  up  in  the  bowels  into  salicylic  acid,  salicylous 
acid  (HC;H502),  salicyluric  acid  (HCgH^NOJ,  and  glucose. 
Salol  is  decomposed  by  the  pancreatic  juice  into  salicylic 
acid  (64  per  cent.)  and  carbolic  acid  (36  per  cent.)  After 
large  doses  the  urine  takes  on  the  characteristic  smoky  color 
produced  in  poisoning  by  phenol.  Salol  is  an  intestinal 
antiseptic.  * 

Circulation. — The  circulation  is  not  preceptibly  influ- 
enced by  moderate  doses  cf  sodium  salicylate,  or  salicylic 
acid,  but  large  doses  depress  the  heart  force,  blood  pressure 
and  nervous  system.  The  artificial  acid  is  said  to  be  more 
depressant  than  natural  salicylic  acid  obtained  from  plants, 
because  of  orthocreosotic  and  metacreosotic  acids  existing  as 
impurities  in  the  former. 

Nervous  System. — The  action  of  salicylic  acid  on  the 
nervous  system  is  unknown.  Therapeutic  quantities  often 
cause,  in  man  (salicylism),  ringing  in  the  ears  and  headache. 

Respiration.  —The  respiratory  movements  are  primarily 


ACTION  AND   USES  OF  SALICYLIC  ACID,  ETC.  469 

quickened  by  the  stimulation  of  the  peripheral  vagi  and 
respiratory  centres  produced  by  sodium  salicylate  and  sali* 
cylic  acid;  but  after  large  doses  the  respiratory  centres  are 
depressed  and  paralyzed  and  death  takes  place  by  asphyxia. 

Temperature. — Medicinal  doses  do  not  influence  the 
normal  temperature  of  healthy  animals,  but  do  often  lower 
bodily  heat  in  fever,  and  frequently  induce  sweating.  The 
largest  therapeutic  doses  must  be  given  to  secure  an  antipy- 
retic action.  The  physiological  details  concerned  in  the 
reduction  of  febrile  temperature  have  not  been  ascertained. 

Kidneys  and  Elimination. — Salicylic  acid,  salicin  and 
sodium  salicylate  circulate  in  the  blood  as  sodium  salicylate 
and  are  eliminated  in  the  urine  as  salicyluric  and  salicylic 
acids.  This  happens  in  this  wise  :  Some  of  the  salicylic 
acid  of  sodium  salicylate  combines  with  glycocoll  in  the 
body  and  forms  salicyluric  acid.  HC.H5O3  -f-  C2H5NO2  (gly- 
cocoll) =  HCgHgNO^  (salicyluric  acid)  +  HoO ;  while  some  of 
the  sodium  salt  is  decomposed  by  phosphoric  acid  in  an  acid 
urine  into  salicylic  acid.  Like  quinine,  the  excretion  of  sali- 
cylic acid  begins  soon  and  goes  on  slowly.  Therefore  large 
doses  given  continuously  may  accumulate  in  the  body.  The 
quantity  of  urea  and  uric  acid  in  the  urine  is  increased  very 
considerably  by  salicylic  acid,  but  the  urine  itself  may  either 
be  increased  or  diminished  in  amount.  It  is  made  aseptic 
by  the  escaping  salicylic  acid,  or  in  the  case  of  salol,  by 
both  carbolic  and  salicylic  acids.  The  urine  of  animals 
taking  salicylic  acid  may  be  rendered  green  by  indican  and 
pyrocatechin,  formed  through  the  action  of  pancreatic  juice, 
and  takes  on  a  purple  color  with  ferric  chloride. 

Toxicology. — In  man,  continued  large  doses  give  rise  to 
delirium,  vomiting,  depression  of  the  circulation,  epistaxis, 
hsematuria,  and  retinal  haemorrhages.  The  herbivora  are  not 
easily  affected  by  large  doses  of  salicylic  acid,  or  salicylates, 
but  dogs  exhibit  nausea  and  vomiting,  accelerated  respira- 
tion, irregular  pulse,  loss  of  muscular  strength,  staggering 
gait,  stupor,  and,  if  death  occurs,  it  is  preceded  by  slow 
breathing,  dilated  pupils,  dyspnoea,  and  convulsions  due  to 


c>u.iFonja^ 


470  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

asphyxia.  The  minimum  fatal  dose  for  a  small  dog  is  about 
one  drachm  of  sodium  salicylate,  subcutaneously. 

Administration. — Sodium  salicylate  contains  48  grains  of 
the  acid  to  the  drachm.  Sodium  salicylate  is  used  in  pre- 
ference to  the  acid  because  it  is  soluble  and  unirritating.  It 
is  given  in  solution,  or  to  dogs  in  pills  or  tablets.  Salicylic 
acid  may  be  exhibited  in  solution  by  warming  it  with  glycerin 
(gr.iv-3i.);  or  with  syrup  (1-5),  and  aquae  ammonia  in  suffi- 
cient quantity  to  dissolve  it,  thus  forming  ammonium  salicy- 
late. It  may  also  be  administered  in  pill  or  ball.  Salol  is 
given  in  pill,  powder  or  mixture  with  water.  The  larger 
doses  of  salicylic  acid  and  salicylates  should  not  be  repeated, 
and  are  used  for  their  antipyretic  action.  A  maximum  daily 
dose  of  one  ounce  of  salicylic  acid  or  soclium  salicylate,  for 
horses,  or  one  drachm  of  either  for  large  dogs,  should  rarely 
be  exceeded. 

Uses  External. — Salicylic  acid  is  employed  in  various 
forms  as  an  antiseptic.  Aqueous  solutions  (1-300)  may  be 
applied  to  wounds.  Stronger  solutions  are  prepared  with 
alcohol,  borax,  sodium  bicarbonate,  and  ammonium  acetate 
solution.  But  as  salicylates  are  formed  in  the  (3)  latter 
combinations,  the  solutions  are  useless  as  antiseptics.  Salicy- 
lic acid  may  be  applied  as  a  dusting  powder  with  zinc  oxide 
(1-8),  or  in  ointment  (1-20  or  30),  for  its  stimulant  and  anti- 
septic effect  on  wounds.  It  is  used  in  the  treatment  of  burns 
with  cottonseed  oil  (1-8).  Salicylic  acid  is  useful  in  powder 
or  ointment  in  acute  moist  eczema  (1-50),  and  in  the  follow- 
ing formula : 

Salicylic  acid,  one  part ;  zinc  oxide,  starch  and  vaseline, 
each  16  parts.  Ringer  recommends  in  pruritus  ani  and 
vulvae — salicylic  acid,  3ii.;  ol.  theobrom.,  3  v.;  cetac,  3iii-; 
ol.  myrist,  3  i.ss. 

Antiseptic  gauze  is  prepared  by  soaking  the  material  in 
hot,  saturated,  watery  solutions  of  salicylic  acid.  Salol  is 
used  as  an  antiseptic  dusting  powder  of  uncertain  value. 

Uses  Internal. — The  salicylic  acid  group  are  specifics  in 
rheumatic  fever.    They  lower  temperature,  lessen  pain,  and 


ACTION  AND   USES   OF   SALICYLIC   ACID,  ETC.  471 

by  shortening  the  attack  lessen  the  danger  of  cardiac  com- 
plications. Sodium  salicylate  should  be  given  every  three 
hours  in  doses  of  3  ii.  to  horses,  and  gr.x.-xx.  to  dogs.  But 
this  form  of  rheumatism  is  rare  in  veterinary  practice,  and 
salicylic  acid  is  unfortunately  not  nearly  so  valuable  in  the 
treatment  of  other  varieties.  Salicylates  are  probably  worth- 
less in  chronic  rheumatic  arthritis  where  the  local  applica- 
tion of  heat,  stimulating  liniments  and  blisters  are  service- 
able ;  but  they  may  be  used  with  benefit  in  acute  muscular 
rheumatism,  sciatica,  and  rheumatic  complications  of  influ- 
enza in  horses.  Salicylic  acid,  salicin,  and  salicylates  are 
not  comparable  with  the  cold  tar  products  as  general 
antipyretics,  and  are  useless  in  hyperpyrexia.  Sodium  sali- 
cylate is  sometimes  prescribed  in  gastric  fermentative 
dyspepsia  when  the  salicylic  acid,  set  free  by  the  hydro- 
chloric acid  of  the  gastric  juice,  acts  as  an  antiseptic.  Salol 
is  a  good  intestinal  antiseptic  in  diarrhoea  and  intestinal 
indigestion,  particularly  when  combined  with  bismuth  sub- 
nitrate  in  powder  or  aqueous  mixture  for  dogs.  Salol  is 
undissolved  in  the  stomach,  is  less  irritating  than  either 
salicylic  acid  or  sodium  salicylate,  and  is  prescribed  to 
lessen  pain  and  fever.  It  may  be  advantageously  given  in 
doses  of  gr.v.  to  dogs,  with  phenacetin  gr.v.,  and  codeine 
gr.J,  for  painful  rheumatism.  It  is  probably  inferior  to 
sodium  salicylate,  but  can  be  conveniently  administered  in 
powder  as  just  noted.  Salol  is  also  a  local  anaesthetic  and 
antiseptic  in  the  urinary  tract  (carbolic  acid  from  decomposi- 
tion), and  is  useful  in  cystitis  and  urethritis,  to  alleviate 
pain,  to  prevent  frequent  micturition,  and  to  render  the 
urine  aseptic.  Repeated  large  doses  are  likely  to  cause 
carbolic  acid  poisoning.  Salicin  acts  more  slowly  than 
salicylic  acid  or  sodium  salicylate,  and  is  not  in  general 
use. 

Oleum  Gaultheri^.     Oil  of  Gaultheria.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Oil  of  checkerberry,  oil  of  wintergreen,  oil 
of  boxberry. 


472  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

A  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  leaves  of  Gaultheria 
procumbeus  Liime  (nat.  ord.  Ericaceae),  consisting  almost 
entirely  of  methyl  salicylate  (CHgC-HgOg),  and  nearly  identi- 
cal with  volatile  oil  of  betula. 

Habitat — North  America  ;  west  as  far  as  Minnesota,  and 
south  to  Georgia. 

Properties, — A  colorless  or  yellow,  or  occasionally  reddish 
liquid,  having  a  characteristic,  strongly  aromatic  odor,  and  a 
sweetish,  warm  and  aromatic  taste.  Spec.  gr.  1.175  to 
1.185  at  59°F.     Solubility  same  as  methyl  salicylate. 

Dose.—n,  3ii.-3i.  (8.-30.);  D.,  H^ v. -x v.  (.3-1.) 

Methyl  Salicylate.     Methyl  Salicylate.     CHaC^HsO,. 

(U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Artificial  or  synthetic  oil  of  wintergreen. 

Derivation. — Prepared  by  distillation  of  salicylic  acid,  or 
salicylates,  with  methyl  alcohol  and  sulphuric  acid. 

Properties. — A  colorless  or  slightly  yellowish  liquid, 
having  the  characteristic,  strongly  aromatic  odor  and  the 
sweetish,  warm  and  aromatic  taste  of  oil  of  gaultheria,  with 
the  essential  composition  of  which  it  is  identical.  It  is 
wholly  identical  with  oil  of  betula  (birch).  Spec.  gr.  1.183- 
1.185  at  59°F.  Soluble  in  all  proportions  in  alcohol,  glacial 
acetic  acid,  or  carbon  disulphide. 

i>o.se.-  K,  3  ii.-  !  i-  18.-30.) ;  D.,  Tl^v.-xv.  (.3-1.) 

ACTION  AND   USES   OF   OIL  OF  GAULTHERIA   AND   METHYL 
SALICYLATE. 

Oil  of  wintergreen  contains  about  90  per  cent,  of  methyl 
salicylate.  Eleven  parts  of  methyl  salicylate  are  equivalent 
to  nearly  ten  parts  of  salicylic  acid.  The  oil  and  methyl 
salicylate  are  free  from  the  impurities  of  artificial  salicylic 
acid,  while  methyl  salicylate  is  of  more  certain  composition 
than  the  oil.  Both  behave  similarly  to  salicylic  acid  thera- 
peutically, although  the  oil  is  more  of  a  local  irritant,  and 
they  are  used  for  the  same  purposes  as  salicylic  acid.  Either 


GENERAL  ACTION   OF  VOLATILE   OILS  473 

may  be  given  in  emulsion,  or  to  dogs  in  capsules,  and  in 
combination  with  salicylic  acid  or  salicylates. 

Oil  of  wintergreen  is  serviceable  in  the  following  lini- 
ment for  rheumatism  : 


5 


M. 


Tine.  Aconiti. 
01.  Gaultheriae. 

Chloroformi aa  5  i 

Lin.  Saponis ad.  §  viii. 

External  use. 


The  external  application  of  methyl  salicylate  to  acutely 
inflamed  rheumatic  joints  is  one  of  the  most  efficient  forms 
of  treatment,  and,  since  some  is  absorbed,  will  take  the  place 
of  the  internal  administration  of  salicylates  to  a  considerable 
extent.  It  is  usually  best  to  combine  this  treatment  with 
internal  medication,  however.  Plain  gauze,  or  other  absorb- 
ent material,  is  saturated  with  methyl  salicylate,  applied 
to  the  affected  joint,  and  then  covered  with  oil  silk,  or 
rubber  protective  and  bandage. 


SECTION  IX.— VOLATILE  OILS,  OR  DRUGS 
CONTAINING  THEM. 

GENERAL  ACTION   OF  VOLATILE   OILS. 

Synonym. — Essential,  ethereal,  aromatic  or  distilled  oils. 

Externally,  volatile  oils  cause  reddening  of  the  skin  (rube- 
facients), sometimes  blistering  (vesicants),  and  often  local 
anaesthesia,  notably  oil  of  cloves  and  peppermint.  They  are 
also  parasiticide,  antiseptic  and  disinfectant,  particularly  oil 
of  mustard,  which  is  the  most  powerful  germicide  known. 

Internally,  these  agents  stimulate  the  flow  of  gastric, 
salivary,  and  intestinal  secretions,  and  increase  the  vascu- 
larity and  movements  of  the  stomach  and  bowels.  They 
therefore  temporarily  improve  digestion,  overcome  flatulence 
by  expelling  gas  from  the  intestines,  prevent  griping  pro- 


474  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

duced  by  cathartics,  and  disguise  and  offset  disagreeable 
effects  and  tastes  of  medicines.  In  the  digestive  tract,  vola~ 
tile  oils  excite  reflexlj  the  nervous  system  and  heart,  and 
augment  the  pulse  rate  and  vascular  tension.  In  large  doses,, 
volatile  oils  are  gastro-intestinal  irritants.  Volatile  oils  may 
be  absorbed  from  the  skin,  bronchial  mucous  membrane,  and 
stomach.  They  are  eliminated  by  the  skin,  bronchial  mucous 
membrane,  and  kidneys,  and  occasionally  by  other  channels. 
In  the  process  of  excretion  the  parts  are  stimulated,  vascu- 
larity, secretion,  and  contractility  of  the  unstriated  muscle 
of  the  bronchial  tubes  are  increased,  and  volatile  oils  thus 
assist  expectoration  and  coughing.  In  irritating  the  kidneys 
and  mucous  membrane  of  the  genito- urinary  tract,  the  vola- 
tile oils  are  stimulant  and  diuretic  ;  while  in  poisonous  doses 
they  produce  acute  nephritis,  strangury,  and  haematuria. 
Toxic  doses,  injected  into  the  circulation,  lower  the  force  of 
the  heart  and  the  blood  pressure,  and  occasion  a  sort  of 
intoxication,  and  sometimes  convulsions.  To  summarize  r 
volatile  oils  possess  the  following  actions  in  a  greater  or  less 
degree :  parasiticide,  antiseptic,  disinfectant,  rubefacient, 
vesicant,  local  anaesthetic,  sialogogue,  stomachic,  carminative,^ 
antispasmodic,  stimulant,  expectorant,  emmenagogue,  and 
diuretic  actions. 

Class  1. — Used  Mainly  for  their  Action  on  the  Skin. 

Terebinthina.     Turpentine.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

A  concrete  oleoresin  obtained  from  Pinus  palustris^ 
Miller,  and  from  other  species  of  Pinus  (nat.  ord.  ConifersB). 

Habitat. — Southeastern  United  States  ;  from  Virginia  to 
the  Gulf  of  Mexico. 

Description. — In  yellowish,  opaque,  tough  masses,  brittle 
in  the  cold ;  crumbly,  crystalline  in  the  interior,  of  a  terebin- 
thinate  odor  and  taste. 

Oleum  Terebinthina.     Oil  of  Turpentine. 
A  volatile  oil  distilled  from  turpentine. 


OIL  OF  TURPENTINE  475 

Synonym. — Spirit  of  turpentine,  E.:  essence  de  terebin- 
thine,  Fr.;  terpentinol,  G. 

Properties. — A  thin,  colorless  liquid,  having  a  character- 
istic odor  and  taste,  both  of  which  become  stronger  and  less 
pleasant  by  age  and  exposure  to  the  air.  Spec.  gr.  0.855  to 
0.870.  Soluble  in  three  times  its  volume  of  alcohol ;  also 
soluble  in  an  equal  volume  of  glacial  acetic  acid. 

Solvent  for  resins  (varnish),  fats,  wax,  gutta  percha, 
india  rubber,  sulphur,  phosphorus,  iodipe,  and  many  alka- 
loids. It  is  dextro-rotatory,  but  the  French  variety  is  leavo- 
rotatorj-.  Old  oil  of  turpentine  and  French  oil  of  turpentine 
(Pinus  maratima)  are  oxidizing  agents. 

Constituents. — Turpentine  contains  20  to  25  per  cent,  of 
oil  of  turpentine.  Oil  of  turpentine  is  composed  of  several 
isomeric  hydrocarbons,  called  terpenes,  and  having  the 
formula  CioHig- 

Among  these  terpenes  are  oil  of  juniper,  savin,  cubeb, 
caraway,  cloves,  thyme,  etc.  They  differ  from  each  other 
and  turpentine  in  their  boiling  points  and  direction  in 
which  they  rotate  the  plane  of  polarization.  The  terpenes 
are  oxidized  into  camphors. 

Dose.— Carminative— R.  &  C,  l\.-\i  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw., 
3i.-iv.  (4.-15.);  D.,  H^x.-xxx.  (.6-2.). 

Anthelmintic— 'R.  &  C,  §ii.-iv.  (60.-120.);  D.,  3ss.-iv. 
(2.-15.). 

Diuretic— R.  &  C,  3  ii.-vi.  (8.-24.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Linimentum  Terbinthince.    Turpentine  Liniment.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Resin  cerate,  650  ;  oil  of  turpentine,  350  ;  melt  the  resin  cerate  and 
add  the  oil  of  turpentine.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Oleum  Terebinthince  Rectijicatum.    Rectified  Oil  of  Turpentine. 

(U.  S.  P.) 
Derivation. — Made  by  shaking  oil  of  turpentine,  1,  with  lime  water, 
6;  and  distillation. 

Properties. — A  thin,  colorless  liquid,  having  the  same  properties  as 
oil  of  turpentine. 


476  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Terebenum.     Terebene.     CioH.g.     (U.  S.  P.) 

A  liquid  consisting  chiefly  of  pinene,  and  containing  not 
more  than  very  small  proportions  of  turpinene  and  dipentene. 
Made  by  action  of  sulphuric  acid  on  oil  of  turpentine  and  by 
distillation. 

Properties. — A  colorless,  or  slightly  yellowish,  thin 
liquid,  having  u  rather  agreeable,  thyme-like  odor,  and  an 
aromatic,  somewhat  terebinthinute  taste.  Spec.  gr.  about 
0.862.  Only  slightly  soluble  iii  water,  but  soluble  in  an 
equal  volume  of  alcohol,  glacial  acetic,  or  carbon  disulphide. 

Dose.—B..  k  C,  3  ii.-vi.  (8.-24.);  11lv--xv.  (.3-1.). 

Terpini  Hydras.  Terpin  Hydrate.  O^Mx,  (OH)^  -t-  H^O. 

(U.  S.  P.) 

The  hydrate  of  the  diatomic  alcohol,  Terpin. 

Derivation. — Kectified  oil  of  turpentine,  alcohol  and 
nitric  acid  are  mixed  together  iu  shallow,  porcelain  dishes, 
and  after  three  or  four  days  terpin  hydrate  crystallizes 
out.  The  crystals  are  collected,  drained,  dried  on  absorbent 
paper,  and  purified  by  recrystallization  in  alcohoL* 

OIL   OF   TURPENTINE 

Action  External. — Oil  of  turpentine  is  an  irritant  to  the 
skin,  causing  itching,  pain  and  redness,  or  even  vesication, 
followed  by  local  anaesthesia.  It  produces  intense  irritability 
and  restlessness  when  applied  externally  to  some  horses. 
The  oil  is  antiseptic,  disinfectant  and  parasiticide.  Some 
absorption  may  occur  from  the  skin. 

Action  Internal. — Alimentary  Canal. — The  oil  induces  a 
sense  of  warmth  in  the  stomach  (man),  and  increases  gastric 
secretion,  motion  and  vascularity,  but  is  too  disagreeable  to 
be  used  as  a  stomachic.  In  acting  similarly  in  the  bowels, 
particularly  in  stimulating  the  muscular  coat,  oil  of  turpen- 
tine is  a  useful  carminative  by  exciting  peristalsis  and  expel- 
ling gas  in  tympanites.  Its  antiseptic  properties  also  anta<?- 
onize  intestinal  fermentation.    Large  doses  occasion  pnriJ'incr 

♦  Colorless,  odorless  crystals,  having  a  somewhat  bitter  taste.  Soluble  in 
250  parts  of  water  and  in  10  parts  of  alcohol. 

Dose.— H.  I  ss..ii.  (2.-8.);  D.,  gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3). 


OIL   OF   TURPENTINE  -•  477 

onize  intestinal  fermentation.  Large  doses  occasion  purging 
and  are  anthelmintic.  Toxic  doses  create  gastro-enteritis 
and  sometimes  intestinal  ulceration.  The  irritation  of  the 
nerve  endings  in  the  digestive  tract  caused  by  turpentine, 
leads  to  reflex  stimulation  of  the  nervous  system  and  heart. 
Circulation. — Turpentine  is  readily  absorbed  into  the 
blood.  Experimental  evidence  is  at  variance  with  regard  to 
the  actioiiof  the  oil  on  the  circulation.  Small  doses  appar- 
ently increase  the  force  and  frequency  of  the  heart-beat,  and 
slightly  raise  blood  pressure.  The  vessels  are  somewhat 
contracted  and  the  drug  is  employed  to  arrest  haemorrhage 
in  the  digestive  tract  and  in  remote  organs.  It  is  inferior  to 
ergot  as  an  haemostatic.  Large  doses  of  turpentine  lower 
the  cardiac  force  and  frequency,  and  cause  vascular  dilata- 
tion and  fall  of  blood  pressure. 

Bespirqtion. — Oil  of  turpentine  enhances  the  strength 
and  rapidity  of  the  respiratory  movements,  in  small  doses, 
but  large  quantities  depress  the  respiration.  The  oil  is 
easily  absorbed  by  inhalation  and  is  also  eliminated  in  the 
breath.  Inhalation  of  the  oil  stimulates  the  bronchial  mucous 
membrane,  acts  as  an  antiseptic,  and  excites  muscular  con- 
traction of  the  bronchial  tubes  and  cough. 

Authorities  differ  as  to  the  influence  of  turpentine  on 
bronchial  secretion.  Rossbach  found  that  the  inhala- 
tion of  air  saturated  with  turpentine  diminished  secre- 
tion, while  the  topical  application  of  a  watery  solution 
increased  secretion.  The  oil  is  essentially  a  local  stimu- 
lating expectorant. 

Nervous  System. — Medicinal  doses  occasion  mental 
exhilaration  in  man.  Large  doses  cause  dulness,  languor 
and  unsteady  gait  in  animals ;  while  distinctly  toxic  doses 
produce  coma,  sensory  paralysis,  loss  of  reflex  activity,  and, 
at  times,  convulsions. 

Kidneys  and  Genito- Urinary  Tract. — The  kidneys  are 
very  prone  to  irritation  during  its  elimination.  Small  doses 
induce  frequent  micturition.  Large  quantities  lead  to 
albuminuria,  pain   in   the  lumbar  region,  haematuria,  and 


478  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

constant  painful  passage  of  high-colored  urine,  owing  to 
irritation  of  the  urinary  mucous  membrane  and  muscular 
spasm  of  the  urethra  (strangury).  Menorrhagia  and  dys- 
raenorrhoea  occur  in  females  under  the  influence  of  the 
oil.  Acute  nephritis,  and  complete  suppression  of  urine 
follow  great  toxic  doses.  The  urine  has  sometimes  the  odor 
of  violets. 

Elimination, — Turpentine  is  eliminated  in  the  urine, 
breath,  and,  to  some  extent,  in  the  bile  and  intestinal  mucus; 
slightly  by  the  skin. 

Toxicology. — Turpentine  poisoning  is  not  an  uncommon 
occurrence  from  the  administration  of  large  doses  (undiluted) 
by  empirics.  Post  mortem  appearances  reveal  gastro- 
enteritis, sometimes  congestion  and  inflammation  of  the 
lungs,  and  fatty  degeneration  of  the  liver,  kidney  and 
muscles,  following  prolonged  use  of  the  oil. 

The  action  of  terebene  and  terpin  hydrate  is  very 
similar  to  oil  of  turpentine. 

Administration, — Oil  of  turpentine  is  given  with  eight  or 
more  times  its  volume  of  cottonseed  or  linseed  oil,  gruel,  or 
milk ;  and  in  emulsion  with  acacia  or  white  of  egg.  An 
emulsion  is  made  by  shaking  a  single  dose  with  powdered 
acacia,  and  adding  water  or  oil.  Terebene  is  administered 
in  a  similar  manner.  Terpin  hydrate  may  be  exhibited  in 
pill,  ball  or  alcoholic  solution. 

USES  OF  OIL  OF  TURPENTINE,   TEREBENE  AND    TERPIN  HYDRATE. 

External. — Oil  of  turpentine  is  employed  as  a  stimulant 
and  counter-irritant  #with  two  or  three  parts  of  cottonseed 
oil  and  soap  liniment,  or  as  the  official  liniment  in  rheuma- 
tism, myalgia,  sprains,  shoulder  lameness,  swollen  joints, 
gangrene,  frost  bites,  burns  and  ulcers.  It  is  serviceable  in 
the  same  form  and  for  the  same  actions  applied  to  "  sitfasts  " 
and  obstinate  ulceration  about  the  heels  in  horses,  and  in 
footrot  of  sheep.  As  a  parasiticide,  the  oil,  diluted  two  or 
three  times  with  sweet  oil,  is  painted  on  the  skin  to  till 
ringworm  and  lice. 


USES  OF  OIL  OF  TURPENTINE,  ETC.  ,  479 

Oil  of  turpentine  is  a  valuable  counter-irritant  in  reliev- 
ing pain  and  inflammation  of  deep-seated  parts.  It  is 
particularly  useful  in  tympanitis,  flatulent  and  spasmodic 
colic  and  peritonitis.  In  the  first  two  named  disorders, 
external  application  is  combined  with  the  internal  and  rectal 
exhibition  of  the  drug.  Oil  of  turpentine  is  less  frequently 
employed  over  the  chest  in  pleurisy  and  bronchitis.  The 
turpentine  stupe  is  the  favorite  method  of  applying  the  oil- 
in  abdominal  troubles.  A  blanket  is  thoroughly  sprinkled 
with  turpentine,  folded,  and  rolled  into  a  cylindrical  form 
which  will  fit  into  an  ordinary  pail.  Boiling  water  is  then 
poured  on  the  blanket  until  it  is  saturated.  The  blanket  is 
quickly  wrung  out,  placed  over  and  around  the  horse's  trunk, 
covered  with  rubber  protective  and  dry  blankets,  and 
allowed  to  remain  in  place  fifteen  to  thirty  minutes. 

Uses  Internal. — Digestive  Tract. — Oil  of  turpentine  is  of 
greatest  utility  in  colic  and  in  expelling  gas  in  tympany 
given  internally  ( 3  ii.-Oii.  of  linseed  oil)  and  per  rectum. 
Enemata  can  also  be  employed  for  their  stimulant  action  on 
the  nervous  system  and  circulation,  in  collapse.  One  or  two 
ounces  of  oil  of  turpentine  are  dissolved  in  two  or  four 
ounces  of  cottonseed  oil,  when  used  as  an  enema  for  horses. 
Turpentine  is  an  anthelmintic  for  round  and  tape  worms. 
From  two  to  four  ounces  of  the  oil  with  one  ounce  of  oleoresin 
of  aspidium  in  a  pint  of  linseed  oil,  are  recommended  for  the 
latter  purpose  in  the  case  of  horses.  Oil  of  turpentine  is 
often  advised  as  an  antidote  for  phosphorus  because  it  con- 
tains ozone  and  forms  a  harmless,  camphor-like  body — tur- 
pentine phosphoric  acid.  The  French  variety  only  is  effica- 
cious ;  the  American  oil,  so  far  from  being  antagonistic  to 
phosphorus,  actually  assists  its  solution  and  absorption. 
Turpentine  is  occasionally  given  in  indigestion,  chronic 
diarrhoea,  and  dysentery  of  horses  and  cattle,  as  a  local 
stimulant  and  antiseptic. 

Respiratory  Organs. — Oil  of  turpentine  is  an  efficient 
stimulating  and  antiseptic  expectorant  in  subacute  and 
chronic  bronchitis ;  and  deodorant  in  gangrene  of  the  lungs. 


480  VEGETABLE   DKUGS 

It  is  administered  internally,  and  by  inhalation  in  the  pro- 
portion of  one  teaspoonful  to  the  quart  of  boiling  water. 
Terebene  is  used  as  a  substitute  for  oil  of  turpentine,  as  a 
stimulating  expectorant,  and  is  likewise  prescribed  as  an 
antiseptic  and  carminative  in  flatulence,  and  as  a  genito- 
urinary stimulant.  Terpin  hydrate  increases  bronchial 
secretion  and  is  employed  in  both  acute  and  chronic  bron- 
chitis. Oil  of  turpentine  has  been  found  beneficial  in  ver- 
minous bronchitis  of  calves  and  lambs  (caused  by  Stronguhis 
micrurus  and  filaria),  injected  into  the  trachea  midway  in 
the  neck,  according  to  the  following  prescription : 

01.  Terebinthinae 3  i-u 

Acid.  Carbol 

Glycerin! 

Chloroformi aa  3  ss. 

M. 

S.         Inject  in  one  dose. 

"Gapes"  in  fowl,  due  to  Syugamus  trachealis,  is  cured 
by  the  same  mixture  diluted  with  5  parts  of  oil  and  applied 
to  the  throat  internally  with  a  feather. 

Circulation. — Oil  of  turpentine  is  of  some  worth  as  a 
cardiac  stimulant  and  haemostatic.  It  is  said  to  have  been 
exhibited  in  parturient  fever  and  apoplexy  of  cattle  with 
success.  Bleeding  from  the  nose,  lungs,  digestive  tract, 
uterus,  kidneys,  and  bladder,  and  haemorrhages  occurring  in 
purpura  hemorrhagica,  are  sometimes  stopped  by  the 
internal  use  of  turpentine. 

GenitO' Urinary  Tract. — Oil  of  turpentine  is  indicated  as 
a  stimulant  in  amenorrhoea,  chronic  pyelitis  and  cystitis. 
The  drug  is  contra-indicated  in  acute  inflammation  of  the 
kidneys  and  alimentary  canal. 

Pix  BuRGUNDiCA.     Burgundy  Pitch.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

The  prepared,  resinous  exudation  of  Abies  excelsa 
Poiret  (nat.  ord.  Coniferae). 

Synonym. — Poix  blanche,  poix  de  Bourgogne,  Fr. ;  Bur- 
gundor  ha:  z  (nr»nh)^  G. 


CANADA  TURPENTINE  481 

Habitat — Southern  Europe,  mountainous  regions. 

Properties. — Hard,  yet  taking  gradually  tlie  form  of  the 
vessel  in  which  it  is  kept ;  brittle,  with  a  shining,  conchoidal 
fracture  ;  opaque  or  translucent ;  reddish-brown  or  yellowish- 
brown  ;  odor  agreeably  terebinthinate ;  taste  aromatic, 
sweetish,  not  bitter.  It  is  almost  entirely  soluble  in  glacial 
acetic  acid,  or  in  boiliug  alcohol,  and  partly  soluble  in  cold 
alcohol. 

Constittients. — 1,  resin ;  2,  a  volatile  oil  (CioHig). 

Dose,—R.  &  C,  5i.-iii.  (30.-90.);  Sh.  &Sw.,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.); 
D.,  gr.xx.-xl.  (1.3-2.6). 

PREPARATION. 

Emplastrum  Picis  Burgundicoe.     Burgundy  Pitch  Plaster. 

(if.  S.  P.) 
Burgundy  pitch,  800  ;  olive  oil,  50  ;  yellow  wax,  150. 


Terebinthina  Canadensis.     Canada  Turpentine. 
(U.  S.  <fe  B.  P.) 

A  liquid  oleoresin  obtained  from  Abies  balsamea  (Linne), 
Miller  (nat.  ord.  Coniferse). 

Synonym. — Canada  balsam,  balsam  of  fir,  balsamum 
Canadense,  E. ;  baume  de  Canada,  Fr. ;  Canadischer  terpen- 
tin,  G. 

Habitat. — Canada  and  N.  United  States ;  west  to  Minne- 
sota, south  on  mountains  to  Virginia. 

Properties. — A  yellowish  or  faintly  greenish,  transparent, 
Tiscid  liquid,  of  an  agreeable  terebinthinate  odor,  and  a 
bitterish,  slightly  acrid  taste.  When  exposed  to  the  air  it 
gradually  dries,  forming  a  transparent  mass.  It  is  completely 
soluble  in  alcohol,  chloroform  or  benzol. 

Constituents. — 1,  volatile  oil,  20-30  per  cent.;  2,  a  resin; 
3,  a  soluble  bitter  principle. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  I  i.-iii.  (30.-90.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  i.-ii  (4.-8.); 
D.,  gr.xx.-xl.  (1.3-2.6). 


482  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

ACTION  AND  USES  OF  BURGUNDY  PITCH  AND  CANADA  TURPENTINE. 

Burgundy  pitch  is  slightly  stimulating  to  the  skin  and 
is  used  as  a  mild  counter-irritant  (in  plaster)  in  rheumatism, 
strains,  swelling  of  joints,  and  upon  the  chest.  Burgundy 
pitch,  Canada  turpentine,  crude  turpentine,  Venice  turpen- 
tine, Bordeaux  turpentine  and  Frankincense  have  much  the 
same  action  and  uses  as  oil  of  turpentine  internally.  They 
are  administered  in  the  same  manner  and  in  nearly  identical 
doses,  but  are  less  commonly  employed  than  the  latter. 

Eesina.     Kesin.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

The  residue  left  after  distilling  off  the  volatile  oil  from 
turpentine. 

Synonym. — Colophony,  rosin,  E.  ;  colophonum,  P.G. ; 
colophane,  Fr.;  kolophonium,  geigenharz,  G. 

Pro2:>erties. — A  transparent,  amber-colored  substance, 
hard,  brittle,  pulverizable  ;  fracture  glossy  and  shallow-con- 
choidal ;  odor  and  taste  faintly  terebinthinate.  Spec.  gr. 
1.070-1.080.  Soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  fixed  or  volatile 
oils ;  also  in  solution  of  potassium  or  sodium  hydrate. 

Constituents. — Chiefly  abietic  acid  anhydride  (C^JI^204^), 
80-90  per  cent. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Ceratum  Resince.    Resin  Cerate.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Synonym. — Basilicon  ointment. 
Resin,  350  ;  yellow  wax,  150  ;  lard,  500. 

Emplastrum  Resince.    Resin  Plaster.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Synonym, — Adhesive  plaster. 
Resin,  140  ;  lead  plaster,  800  ;  yellow  wax,  60. 

ACTION  AND   USES   OF  RESIN. 

Besin  is  a  local  stimulant  and  antiseptic  externally.  The 
cerate  is  an  excellent  preparation  for  burns,  wounds,  ulcers, 
a-nd  abraded  surfaces.  The  fumes  arising  from  burning  resin 
(on  a  hot  shovel)  are  said  to  be  of  value  when  inhaled  in 
chronic  or  subacute  bronchitis. 


TAR  483 

Pix  LiQUiDA.     Tar.     (U.  S.  <fe  B.  P,) 

An  empyreumatic  oleoresin  obtained  by  the  destructive 
distillation  of  tlie  wood  of  Pinus  palustris  Miller,  and  of  other 
species  of  Pinus  (nat.  ord.  Coniferse). 

Synonym. — Resina  empyreumatica  liquida  —  goudron, 
goudron  vegetal,  Fr.;  theer,  G. 

Habitat — United  States. 

Properties. — Thick,  viscid,  semi-fluid,  blackish-brown; 
heavier  than  water,  transparent  in  thin  layers,  becoming 
granular  and  opaque  with  age  ;  odor  empyreumatic,  terebin- 
thinate  ;  taste  sharp,  empyreumatic. 

Tar  is  slightly  soluble  in  water ;  soluble  in  alcohol, 
fixed  or  volatile  oils,  and  solutions  of  potassium  or  sodium 
hydrate. 

Constituents. — Mainly — 1,  oil  of  tar ;  2,  metbyllic  alcohol ; 
3,  creosote  ;  4,  guaiacol ;  6,  phenol ;  6,  pyrocatechin ;  7,  toluol ; 
8,  xyol ;  9,  acetic  acid  ;  10,  acetone ;  11,  resins. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  I  ss.-i.  (15.-30.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  i.-ii-  (4.-8.); 
D.,11lxv.-3i.  (1.-4.). 

PREPARATION. 

Unguentum  Picis  Liquidce.    Tar  Ointment.    (IT.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Tar,  500  ;  yellow  wax,  135  ;  lard,  875. 

Oleum  Picis  Liquids.     Oil  of  Tar.     (U.  S.  P.) 

A  volatile  oil  distilled  from  tar. 

Properties. — An  almost  colorless  liquid  when  freshly 
distilled,  but  soon  acquiring  a  dull,  reddish-brown  color,  and 
having  a  strong  tarry  odor  and  taste.  Spec.  gr.  about  0.970. 
Soluble  in  alcohol. 

Pix  Nigba.     Pitch.     (Non-official.) 

A  solid,  shining,  black,  bituminous  substance.  Soluble 
in  ether,  oils,  and  aqueous  alkaline  solutions.  It  con- 
tains an  altered  resin,  and  a  crystalline  principle,  Retine 

(CigHig).  , 


484  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

Oleum  Cadinum.     Oil  of  Cade.     (U.  S.  P.) 

A  product  of  the  dry  distillation  of  wood  of  Juniperus 
Oxyeednis  Linne  (nat  ord.  Coniferse). 

Synonym. — Oleum  jnniperi  empyreumaticum,  E.  ;  huile 
de  cade,  Fr. ;  cadol,  G. 

Habitat. — North  Africa,  Spain,  France,  and  Portugal,  on 
the  borders  of  the  Mediterranean,  in  waste  places  and  stony 
hill-sides. 

Properties. — A  brownish  or  dark  brown,  clear,  thick 
liquid  ;  having  a  tarry  odor,  and  an  empyreumatic,  burning, 
somewhat  bitter  taste.  Spec.  gr.  about  0.990.  It  is  almost 
insoluble  in  water,  but  imparts  to  it  an  acid  reaction.  Parti- 
ally soluble  in  alcohol ;  completely  soluble  in  ether,  chloro- 
form, or  carbon  disulphide. 

Constituents. — The  composition  is  similar  to  that  of  tar. 

Dose. — Same  as  that  of  tar. 

ACTION   AND   USES   OF  TAR,    OIL  OP   CADE   AND   PITCH. 

Extei-nolly,  tar  produces  hypersemia,  and,  when  rubbed 
continually  into  the  skin,  sometimes  papules  and  pustules. 
It  is  a  stimulant,  rubefacient,  antiseptic  and  parasiticide 
externally.  Poisoning  may  follow  the  extensive  application 
of  large  quantities  of  tar  over  a  denuded  surface,  or  if  it  be 
licked  off  the  skin.  Tar  is  mainly  employed  in  veterinary 
medicine  on  the  skin,  and  is  a  valuable  remedy  to  relieve 
itching  and  as  a  local  stimulant  in  chronic  eczema  ("  grease  "), 
sometimes  in  moist  eczema  and  erythema,  psoriasis,  pityri- 
asis, pruritus,  and  lichen.  It  also  destroys  the  parasites  of 
mange  and  ringworm.  It  is  applied  with  fat,  vaseline,  soap 
or  alcohol,  in  the  proportion  of  1-2  to  10.  The  official  oint- 
ment (1-2),  is  generally  appropriate  in  the  above-mentioned 
skin  diseases,  but  may  require  dilution.  The  following 
preparation  is  serviceable  on  patches  of  psoriasis  : 

Tar,  soft  or  green  soap,  each  two  ounces ;  alcohol,  twa 
ounces.  Pure  tar  painted  over  the  surface  with  a  brush,  i* 
often  most  efficient  in  obstinate  cases  of  eruptive  disorders. 


ACTION  AND   USES   OF  TAR,   ETC.  485 

A  lotion  of  oil  of  tar,  sulphurated  potassa,  or  Peruvian 
balsam,  is  more  cleanly  and  suitable  for  house  dogs  with 
eczema.  (See  diet  for  eczema  in  dogs,  section  on  foods  and 
feeding,  p.  657.)  Tar  is  of  the  greatest  utility  in  stimulating 
the  growth  of  horn,  and  is  the'  principal  ingredient  of  hoof 
ointments  for  horses.  It  may  be  mixed  with  an  equal 
part  of  lard  for  this  purpose,  or  the  following  mixture  is  well 
spoken  of :  tar,  yellow  wax  and  honey,  ^  lb.  each ;  lard,  1 J 
lbs.;  glycerin,  3  ounces.  Melt  and  mix  the  lard  and  wax 
together ;  add  the  other  ingredients ;  stir  while  cooling. 
Oakum,  soaked  with  tar,  is  frequently  packed  under  leather, 
beneath  the  shoes  on  horses'  feet,  to  soften  and  stimulate  the 
horn  and  to  cure  thrush  and  canker.  Tar  is  also  a  beneficial 
application  for  foot  rot  of  sheep.  Tar  is  usually  kept  on 
hand  for  farming  purposes,  and  is  therefore  a. popular  anti- 
septic and  protective  in  the  treatment  of  wounds  and  broken 
horns  in  cattle. 

Internally. — Tar — on  account  of  its  constituents,  phenol 
and  creosote — in  large  quantities  causes  toxic  effects,  with 
symptoms  resembling  carbolic  acid  poisoning:  e.g.,  abdominal 
pain,  vertigo,  signs  of  gastro-intestinal  irritation,  and  the 
passage  of  dark-colored  urine.  It  is  not  exceedingly  pois- 
onous, however,  as  recovery  has  been  reported  in  man  after 
the  ingestion  of  an  amount  varying  from  one  to  two  pints. 
Tar  is  eliminated  by  the  kidneys,  with  the  production  of 
irritation  and  diuresis  ;  also  by  the  mucous  membrane,  and 
affects  more  especially  that  lining  the  bronchial  tubes,  where 
it  acts  as  a  local  stimulant  and  antiseptic.  For  this  reason 
the  drug  is  an  excellent  expectorant  in  subacute  or  chronic 
I  bronchitis  when  given  internally  or  by  inhalation.  The  latter 
^process  may  be  conducted  by  pouring  tar  on  a  heated  shovel, 
or,  better,  by  dissolving  tar  in  boiliug  sodium  carbonate 
solution  and  steaming  the  patient  with  the  vapor.  Tar  is 
occasionally  exhibited  in  chronic  gastro-intestinal  catarrh 
and  obstinate  diarrhoea,  with  good  results. 

Tar   is   of   value   internally   in   influencing   those  skin 
disorders  which   are  benefited  by  its  external  application. 


486  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Inhalations  of  tar  are  sometimes  serviceable  in  pharyngitis 
and  laryngitis,  as  well  as  in  bronchitis.  Oil  of  tar  may  be 
applied,  dissolved  in  alcohol  (1-8),  as  a  lotion,  and  is  an 
agreeable  substitute  for  tar  in  chronic  eczema  or  psoriasis  of 
dogs.  It  is  used  in  the  pure  state  as  a  parasiticide  for  mange, 
scab,  ringworm  or  favus.  Oil  of  cade  represents  oil  of  tar 
and  tar  in  their  actions  and  uses,  but  its  odor  is  pleasanter. 
It  is  prescribed  externally  in  chronic  eczema  and  pruri- 
tis,  as  follows  :  Oil  of  cade,  1 ;  soft  soap  and  alcohol,  4  parts 
each;  or  in  equal  parts  with  wax.  Oil  of  cade  can  also  be 
used  in  any  proportion  or  manner  in  which  tar  is  applic- 
able. Pitch  likewise  possesses  the  same  action  as  tar,  and 
is  sometimes  employed  for  making  hoof  ointments  and 
plasters. 

Balsamum  Peruvianum.     Balsam  of  Peru. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

A  balsam  obtained  from  Toluifera  Pereirae  (Royal) 
Baillon  (nat.  ord.  Leguminosae). 

Synonym. — Balsamum  peruvianum  nigrum,  balsam  indi- 
cum,  baume  de  Peron,  baume  des  Indes,  Fr. ;  Peru  bal- 
sam, G. 

Habitat — Central  America. 

Properties. — A  liquid  having  a  syrupy  consistence,  free 
from  stringiness  or  stickiness  ;  of  a  brownish-black  color  in 
bulk,  reddish-brown  or  transparent  in  thin  layers ;  of  an 
agreeable,  vanilla-like,  somewhat  smoky  odor,  and  a  bitter 
taste,  leaving  a  persistent  aftertaste.  On  exposure  to  air  it 
does  not  become  hard.  Spec.  gr.  1.135  to  1.150.  Miscible 
in  all  proportions,  with  absolute  alcohol,  chloroform,  or 
glacial  acetic  acid.    Completely  soluble  in  5  parts  of  alcohol. 

Constituents. — 1,  a  volatile  oil,  cinnamein,  C9H7  (07817)02, 
about  60  per  cent. ;  2,  cinnamic  acid,  C^gllfi^ ;  3,  a  resin  (32 
per  cent.),  yielding  benzoic  acid,  HC.H5O2,  on  dry  distillation; 
4,  styrol,  CgHg ;  5,  stilbene,  C14H12 ;  6,  a  volatile  oil,  benzylic 
benzoate,  C7H5  (C7H7)  O, ;  7,  benzylic  alcohol,  C.HgO. 


BALSAM   OF   TOLU  487 

Dose.—B..  &  a,  I  i.-ii.  (30.-60.) ;  Sh.  <fe  Sw.,  3  i.-ii.  (4-8.); 
D.,  1]tx.-xxx.  (.6-2.). 

Balsamum  Tolutanum.    Balsam  of  Tolu.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

A  balsaai  obtained  from  Toluifera  Balsamum  Linne 
(nat.  ord.  Leguminosae). 

.  Synonym. — Baume  de  Tolu,  baume  de  Cathagene,  Fr. ; 
Tolubalsam,  G. 

Habitat. — New  Grenada  and  Venezuela. 

Properties. — A  yellowish-brown,  semi-fluid,  or  nearly 
solid  mass,  becoming  more  brittle  when  exposed  to  the  cold ; 
transpjirent  in  thin  layers ;  having  an  agreeable  odor,  recall- 
ing that  of  vanilla,  but  distinct  from  it,  and  a  mild  aromatic 
taste.  Soluble  in  alcohol,  chloroform  and  solutions  of  fixed 
alkalies ;  almost  insoluble  in  water. 

Constituents. — 1,  a  volatile  oil,  tolene,  CioHig,  1  per  cent.; 
2,  a  volatile  oil,  benzylicbenzoate,  C7H5  (C;H.)02 ;  3,  benzoic 
acid,  HC7H5O2 ;  4,  cinnamic  acid,  CgHgOa ;  5,  benzylic  cinna- 
mate,  C9H7  (C,H.)02 ;  6,  resins. 

Dose. — Same  as  balsam  of  Peru. 

PREPARATION. 

Syrupus  Tolutanus.     Syrup  of  Tolu.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Balsam  of  Tolu,  10  ;  precipitated  calcium  phosphate,  50  ;  sugar,  850; 
alcohol,  50  ;  water  to  make  1000.    (U.  S.  P.) 
Dose.— D  ,  3  i  -iv.  (4.-15.). 

ACTION  AND  USES  OF  BALSAMS  OF  PERU  AND  TOLU. 

Externally,  the  balsams  are  stimulant,  antiseptic  and 
parasiticide.  Balsam  of  Peru  is  a  useful  remedy  in  alcoholic 
solution  (1-8)  for  chronic  eczema  of  dogs.  It  may  also  be 
serviceable  in  ointment  (1-8)  for  sore  teats  in  cows,  or  as  an 
application  to  kill  lice  and  the  parasites  of  (sarcoptic)  mange 
and  ringworm.  It  is  sometimes  employed  undiluted  as  a 
stimulant  and  antiseptic  dressing  upon  wounds  and  ulcers. 

Internally,  the  balsams  are  stomachic  and  carminative, 
and   are   eliminated  by  the  skin,  mucous  membranes  and 


488  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

urinary  organs,  stimulating  these  parts.  They  are  therefore 
occasionally  prescribed  in  chronic  bronchitis,  pyelitis  and 
cystitis.  The  syrup  of  Tolu  is  an  exceedingly  mild  prepara- 
tion, but  forms  an  agreeable  vehicle  for  cough  mixtures  in 
canine  practice.  The  balsams  may  be  administered  in 
emulsion  rubbed  up  with  either  glycerin,  mucilage,  or  white 
of  egg  and  water. 

Benzoinum.     Benzoin.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Resina  benzoe,  asa  dulcis,  gum  benjamin, 
E.;  benzoin,  Fr.;  benzoe,  G. 

A  balsamic  resin  obtained  from  Styrax  Benzoin  Dryander 
(nat.  ord.  Styracese). 

Habitat.— Simu,  Sumatra,  Java  and  Borneo. 

Properties. — In  lumps  consisting  of  agglutinated,  yellow- 
ish-brown tears,  which  are  internally  milk-white  ;  or  in  the 
form  of  a  reddish-brown  mass,  more  or  less  mottled  from 
whitish  tears  imbedded  in  it.  It  is  almost  v/hoUy  soluble  in 
5  parts  of  moderately  warm  alcohol,  and  in  solutions  of  the 
fixed  alkalies.  When  heated  it  gives  off  fumes  of  benzoic 
acid.  It  has  an  agreeable,  balsamic  odor,  and  a  slight  aroma- 
tic taste. 

Constituents. — 1,  benzoic  acid,  12  to  20  per  cent. ;  2,  cin- 
namic  acid,  sometimes ;  3,  several  resins ;  4,  a  volatile  oil. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Adeps  Benzoinatus.     Benzoinated  Lard.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  melting  lard,   1000,   with  benzoin,  20 ;  and  straining. 
(U.  S.  P.) 

Tinctura  Benzoini.    Tincture  of  Benzoin.    (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  of  benzoin,  200,  in  alcohol ;   filtration,  and 
addition  of  alcohol  to  make  1000. 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  §1.  (30.) ;  D.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.). 

Tinctura  Benzoini  Coviposita.     Compound  Tincture  of  Benzoin. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Synonym. — Friar's  balsam. 

Benzoin,  120 ;  purified  aloes,  20 ;  storax,  80 ;  balsam  of  Tolu,  40 ; 
alcohol  to  make  1000.     Made  by  digestion  and  filtration.    (U.  S.  P.) 


BENZOIC  ACID  489 

AciDUM  Benzoicum.     Benzoic  Acid.     HC7H5O2. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym.  —  Acide  benzoique,  fleurs  de  benjoin,  Fr. ; 
benzoesaure,  benzoeblumen,  G. 

Derivation. — Obtained  from  benzoin  by  sublimation. 

Properties. — White,  or  yellowish-white,  lustrous  scales 
or  friable  needles  ;  odorless,  or  having  a  slight  characteristic 
odor  resembling  that  of  benzoin,  and  of  a  warm,  acid  taste. 
Somewhat  volatile  at  a  moderately  warm  temperature,  and 
rendered  darker  by  exposure  to  light.  Soluble,  when  pure, 
in  about  500  parts  of  water,  and  in  2  parts  of  alcohol.  Also 
soluble  in  3  parts  of  ether,  7  parts  of  chloroform,  and  readily 
soluble  in  carbon  disulphide,  benzol,  fixed  and  volatile  oils, 
but  sparingly  soluble  in  benzin. 

Incompatihles. — Alkalies,  ammonium  carbonate. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.) ;  D.,  gr.v.-xv.  (.3-1.). 

Ammonii  Benzoas.     Ammonium  Benzoate.     NH^C^HgOj. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Made  by  the  action  of  benzoic  acid  and  ammonia  water. 
In  white  crystals.  Soluble  in  5  parts  of  water  ;  in  28  parts 
of  alcohoh 

Dose. — Same  as  benzoic  acid. 


SoDii  Benzoas.     Sodium  Benzoate.     Na  C,H502.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  the  action  of  a  hot  solution  of  sodium  carbonate 
on  benzoic  acid.  Occurs  in  a  white  powder.  Soluble  in 
1.8  parts  of  water ;  in  45  parts  of  alcohol. 

Dose. — Same  as  benzoic  acid. 

ACTION  OF  BENZOIN,  BENZOIC  ACID  AND  BENZOATES. 

These  substances  may  be  represented  by  benzoic  acid. 
Action  External. — Benzoic   acid  is   an  irritant   applied 
externally,  also  when  its  vapor  is  inhaled.     It  is  an  efficient 


490  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

antiseptic;  a  solution  (1-1000)  will  inhibit  the  growth  of 
many  forms  of  bacteria. 

Action  Internal. — Medicinal  doses  of  benzoic  acid  exert 
only  an  antiseptic  action  in  the  alimentary  canal.  Large 
doses  occasion  increased  bronchial  and  cutaneous  secretion, 
with  accelerated  pulse.  Enormous  doses  cause  gastro-intes- 
tinal  irritation,  disturbance  of  the  pulse  and  respiration,  a 
species  of  intoxication  and  paraplegia.  Benzoic  acid  is 
absorbed  into  the  blood,  acts  as  an  antipyretic  in  fever,  and 
is  converted  (probably  in  the  kidneys)  into  hippuric  acid 
and  eliminated  in  the  urine  as  such.  It  thus  renders  an 
alkaline  urine  acid,  and  stimulates  and  exercises  an  anti- 
septic influence  upon  the  urinary  mucous  membrane.  The 
change  into  hippuric  acid  is  due  to  combination  with  a 
nitrogenous  body — glycocoll — but  the  source  of  glycocoll  is 
uncertain. 

Benzoic  acid  HC^HgOj  +  glycocoll  CaHsNOj  =  hippuric 
acid  C3H3NO3  +  water  H,0. 

Benzoic  acid  is  somewhat  diuretic,  but  does  not  alter 
the  composition  of  the  urine  in  any  constant  manner, 
although  metabolism  is  said  to  be  increased.  It  is  elimin- 
ated by  the  bronchial  mucous  membrane,  augmenting  secre- 
tion, and  acting  as  an  antiseptic  in  the  bronchial  tubes. 
When  the  vapor  of  any  of  the  substances  under  consideration 
is  inhaled  in  proper  dilution,  a  similar  expectorant  action  is 
attained.  Benzoic  acid  is  likewise  excreted  by  the  skin  and 
salivary  glands,  exciting  their  functional  activity. 

Uses  External. — The  compound  tincture  of  benzoin  is  a 
valuable  stimulant  and  antiseptic  application  for  wounds, 
sores  and  ulcers.  It  is  often  applied  to  the  part  on  gauze  or 
lint,  followed  by  bandaging. 

Uses  Internal.  —  Benzoic  acid  is  sometimes  given  in 
powder,  pill,  or  ball,  as  an  intestinal  antiseptic,  and  as  a 
remedy  for  rheumatism.  It  is  inferior  to  salicylic  acid  in 
the  latter  disorder.  The  benzoates  are  said  to  be  equally 
efficient  as  antiseptics  and  have  been  highly  recommended 
in  diarrhoea  and  dysentery. 


WHITE    MUSTARD  491 

Benzoin,  in  the  form  of  the  tincture,  and  the  benzoates, 
are  serviceable  ia  laryngitis,  tracheitis,  and  bronchitis,  to 
promote  secretion  and  antisepsis."  An  inhalation  of  the 
tincture  (3  ii.-Oi.  hot  water)  is  also  very  serviceable  in  these 
diseases  for  the  same  purposes. 

The  benzoates  are  of  value  in  pyelitis  and  cystitis, 
particularly  in  carnivora  with  a  normal  acid  urine,  to  acidify 
and  disinfect  the  decomposing  urine  and  stimulate  the  tract. 

SiNAPis  Alba.     White  Mustard. 

Synonym. — Sinapis  albse  semina,  B.P. ;  semen  erucae, 
yellow  mustard  seed,  E.  ;  moutarde  blanche,  Fr. ;  weisser 
senf,  G. 

The  seed  of  Brassica  alba  (Linne)  Hooker  filius  et 
Thompson  (nat.  ord.  Cruciferae). 

Habitat. — Southern  Europe  and  Asia ;  cultivated  in 
temperate  climates. 

Description. — About  2  Mm.  in  diameter ;  almost  globular, 
with  a  circular  hilum  ;  testa  yellowish,  finely  pitted,  hard ; 
embryo  oily,  with  a  curved  radicle  and  two  cotyledons,  one 
folded  over  the  other ;  free  from  starch ;  inodorous  ;  taste 
pungent  and  acrid. 

Constituents. — 1,  a  glucoside,  sinalbin  (CsoH^NoSjOie),  and 
a  ferment,  myrosin,  10-15  per  cent.  The  latter  converts  the 
former,  in  the  presence  of  water,  into  the  active  principle  of 
the  drug,  acrinyl  sulphocyanide  (C^H^ONCS),  a  very  acrid, 
volatile  body ;  sinapine  sulphate  (C16H23NO5H2SOJ,  and  glu- 
cose ;  2,  a  bland,  fixed  oil,  25  per  cent.;  3,  gum,  20  per  cent. 

Dose.—K.,  5ss.  (15.);  C,  §  ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  Sh.  &  Sw., 
3i.-ii.  (4-8.)  ;  D.,  gr.x.-xv.  (.6-1.). 

Sinapis  Nigra.     Black  Mustard. 

Synonym. — Sinapis  nigrse  semina,  B.P.;  semen  sinapis, 
P.G.;  moutarde  noire  (Grise),  Fr.;  schwarzer  senf,  G. 

The  seed  of  Brassica  nigra  (Linne)  Koch  (nat.  ord. 
Cruciferae). 


492  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Habitat.  —  Southern  Europe  and  Asia;  cultivated  in 
temperate  climates. 

Description. — About  1  Mm.  in  diameter,  almost  globular, 
with  a  circular  hilum;  testa  blackish-brown  or  grayish- 
brown,  finely  pitted,  hard ;  embryo  oily,  with  a  curved 
radicle  and  two  cotyledons,  one  folded  over  the  other ;  free 
from  starch ;  inodorous  when  dry,  but  when  triturated  with 
water,  of  a  pungent,  penetrating,  irritating  odor ;  taste 
pungent  and  acrid. 

Constituents,  —  1,  a  glucoside,  sinigrin  (or  potassium 
myronate),  and  a  ferment,  my  rosin.  In  the  presence  of  water 
the  latter  converts  the  former  into  the  acrid,  volatile,  official 
oil  of  mustard  (allyl  sulphocyanide,  C3H5CNS),  acid  potas- 
sium sulphate,  and  glucose ;  2,  a  fixed,  bland  oil,  similar  to 
that  in  white  mustard  ;  3,  gum. 

Dose. — Same  as  white  mustard. 

Commercial  form  of  mustard  is  a  mixture  of  black  and 
white  mustard. 

PREPARATION. 

Oleum  Sinapis  Volatilp.     Volatile  Oil  of  Mustard. 

Synonym. — Oleum  sinapis,  B.P.;  allyl  sulphocyanide 
(C3H5CNS),  oleum  sinapis  8ethereum,E.;  essence  de  moutarde, 
Fr.;  aetherisches  senfol,  G. 

Derivation, — A  volatile  oil  obtained  from  black  mustard 
by  maceration  with  water  and  subsequent  distillation. 

Properties.  —  A  colorless  or  pale  yellow,  limpid  and 
strongly  refractive  liquid,  having  a  very  pungent  and  acrid 
odor  and  taste.  Freely  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  or  carbon 
disulphide,  the  solutions  being  neutral  to  litmus  paper. 
Spec.  gr.  1.018  to  1.029. 

Action  External. — Mustard  quickly  dilates  the  vessels  of 
the  skin  and  causes  hyperaemia.  If  its  application  is 
frequently  repeated,  there  is  so  much  vascular  irritation  that 
transudation  of  serum  occurs  under  the  epidermis,  and 
blisters  or  even  pustules  are  formed.  Mustard  induces  a 
sensation  of  burning  in  man,  but  is  not  so  irritating  as  oil 


MUSTARD  493 

of  turpentine  to  horses,  and  the  primary  irritation  is  followed 
by  partial  anaesthesia.  It  is  one  of  the  most  useful  counter- 
irritants,  and  by  this  action  contracts  vessels  in  the  under- 
lying parts,  relieves  pain  and  congestion. 

In  rapidly  stimulating  the  skin,  mustard  reflexly  excites 
the  nervous  system,  respiratory  functions  and  heart.  Mus- 
tard is  therefore  a  rubefacient,  vesicant,  and  counter-iridtant 
externally. 

Action  Internal. — Mustard  stimulates  gastric  vascularity, 
secretion  and  motion,  and  promotes  the  appetite  in  small 
doses.  Large  doses  occasion  vomiting  in  animals  capable  of 
the  act.  Intestinal  peristalsis  and  secretion  are  probably 
likewise  augmented  by  mustard.  It  is  thus  a  stomachic, 
carminative  and  emetic  internally,  but  is  rarely  administered 
save  as  an  emetic  because  of  its  pungency  and  the  difficulty 
attending  its  exhibition.  Mustard  is  absorbed  to  some 
extent,  but  we  are  ignorant  concerning  its  ultimate  fate  or 
remote  action.     It  is  said  to  be  a  diuretic. 

Uses  External. — Mustard  is  an  extremely  valuable 
counter-irritant  for  relieving  pain  or  congestion  in  almost 
any  internal  part.  It  is  more  -commonly  employed  in  the 
acute  respiratory  disorders  of  the  domestic  animals,  as  in 
laryngitis,  bronchitis,  congestion  of  the  lungs,  pleurisy, 
pneumonia,  to  stop  incessant  cough,  and  after  exposure  to 
severe  cold  ;  and  the  flour  of  mustard  is  used  in  a  very  thin 
paste  made  with  warm  water  and  applied  with  friction  to  the 
skin.  Boiling  water  should  not  be  mixed  with  mustard,  nor 
vinegar,  nor  alcohol,  as  they  interfere  with  its  action.  The 
volatile  oil  of  mustard  is  a  cleanly  and  convenient  substitute 
for  the  crude  drug.  A  small  quantity,  diluted  with  olive  oil, 
or  cottonseed  oil  (1-15),  may  be  rubbed  into  either  side  of 
the  chest  in  bronchitis,  pleurisy,  and  other  chest  disorders, 
as  a  counter-irritant. 

After  the  application  of  mustard,  the  part  may  be 
bandaged,  or  hot  blankets  may  be  placed  over  the  body 
and  the  treatment  reinforced  by  the  use  of  mustard  on  the 
limbs  and  bandaging.    If  mustard  is  employed  continuously 


494  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

to  keep  up  constant  counter-irritation,  the  drug  should  be 
washed  off  in  20  or  30  minutes,  and  the  process  repeated 
once  in  2  hours.  It  is  unwise  to  induce  much  vesication  over 
an  extensive  surface  with  mustard,  as  the  result  is  painful 
and  resolution  is  slow.  Mustard  is  also  serviceable  in  pain- 
ful abdominal  diseases,  as  colic,  tympanites,  enteritis  and 
peritonitis,  but  oil  of  turpentine  appears  here  to  be  more 
efficient. 

A  sinapism  (mustard  application)  over  the  loins  is  useful 
in  acute  nephritis,  and  will  not  lead  to  irritation  of  the 
kidneys  from  absorption  which  may  ensue  after  cantharidal 
blistering.  Cantharides  has,  however,  a  more  active,  per- 
manent and  revulsant  effect  in  most  local  inflammatory  con- 
ditions, and  is  more  potent  in  acute  laryngitis.  The  action 
of  mustard  is  rapid  aod  fleeting,  unless  applied  continually 
in  considerable  strength.  For  this  reason  it  is  indicated  to 
impress  the  nervous  system  instantaneously,  in  opium, 
alcohol  and  other  narcotic  poisoning ;  in  respiratory  failure, 
in  collapse  and  extreme  depression  in  the  course  of  acute 
diseases  (pneumonia  and  parturient  apoplexy),  applied  all 
over  the  body,  or  over  the  cardiac  region  in  syncope. 
Mustard  is  of  utility  in  muscular  or  articular  rheumatism, 
and  is  employed  on  swollen  glands  (strangles),  inflamed 
joints  and  tendons  ;  but  is  usually  less  efficacious  than 
a  good  cantharidal  blister  in  these  three  latter  condi- 
tions. 

Uses  Internal. — Mustard  is  an  efficient  emetic  for  dogs, 
in  tablespoonful  doses,  given  in  a  cup  of  tepid  water.  It  is 
usually  at  hand,  and  not  only  empties  the  stomach  in  poison- 
ing, but  reflexly  stimulates  the  heart  and  respiration.  If 
administered  for  its  carminative  or  stomachic  effect,  mustard 
must  be  given  in  pill  or  ball. 

Eucalyptus.     Eucalyptus.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym.  —  Feuilles  d'eucalyptus,  Fr. ;  eucalyptus- 
blatter,  G. 


OIL   OF  EUCALYPTUS  495 

The  leaves  of  Eucalyptus  globulus  Labillardiere  (nat. 
ord.  Myrtacese),  collected  from  the  older  parts  of  the  tree. 

Description. — Petiolate,  lanceolately  scythe-shaped ;  from 
15  to  30  cQi.  long ;  rounded  below,  tapering  above ;  entire, 
leathery,  grayish-green,  glandular,  feather- veined  between 
the  midrib  and  marginal  veins ;  odor  strongly  camphorace- 
ous ;  taste  pungently  aromatic  and  somewhat  cooling,  bitter 
and  astringent. 

Constituents. — 1,  a  volatile  oil  (see  below);  2,  a  crystalliz- 
able  resin;  3,  a  crystallizable,  fatty  acid ;  4,  cerylic  alcohol. 

Dose.—R.  &  d,  5  ii.-iii.  (60.-90.);  D.,  3  ss.-ii  (2.-8.). 

PREPARAT19N. 
Extractum  Eucalypti  Fluidum.    Fluid  Extract  of  Eucalyptus. 

(U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration,  percolation  and  evaporation,-  so  that  .1  Co,  = 
1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 

Dose. — Same  as  for  eucalyptus. 

Oleum  Eucalyptl     Oil  of  Eucalyptus.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

A  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  fresh  leaves  of  Eucalyp- 
tus globulus  Labillardiere,  Eucalyptus  oleosa  F.  V.  Mueller, 
and  some  other  species  of  Eucalyptus  (nat.  ord.  Myrtacese). 

Properties. — A  colorless  or  faintly-yellowish  liquid, 
having  a  characteristic,  aromatic,  somewhat  camphoraceous 
odor,  and  a  pungent,  spicy,  and  cooling  taste.  Spec.  gr. 
0.915  to  0.925.  Soluble  in  all  proportions  in  alcohol,  carbon 
disulphide,  or  glacial  acetic  acid. 

Constituents.  —  1,  a  volatile  oil,,  eucalyptol  or  cineol 
(CioHigO),  70  per  cent. ;  2,  eucalyptene  (CioHie) ;  3,  cymene 
(C^oHJ. 

Incompatihles. — Alkalies,  mineral  acids,  and  metallic  salts. 

Dose.—R.,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  D.,  Ulii.-x.  (.12-.6). 

Eucalyptol.    Eucalyptol.     G^J3.^,0.     (U.  S.  P.) 
A  neutral  body  obtained  from  the  volatile  oil  of  Eucalyp- 


496  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

tus  globulus  Labillardiere,  and  of  some  other  species  of 
eucalyptus  (nat.  ord.  Myrtaceae). 

Derivation. — Crude  eucalyptol  distills  over  from  eucalyp- 
tus leaves  at  a  temperature  varying  from  338°  to  352°  F., 
and  is  purified  by  redistillation  from  potassium  hydrate  or 
calcium  chloride. 

Properties. — A  colorless  liquid,  having  a  characteristic, 
aromatic  and  distinctly  camphoraceous  odor,  and  a  pungent, 
spicy  and  cooling  taste.  Spec.  gr.  0.930.  Soluble  in  all 
proportions,  in  alcohol. 

Dose, — Samo  as  oil  of  eucalyptus. 

ACTION  OF  EUCALYPTUS,  OIL  OF  EUCALYPTUS  AND  EUCALYPTOL. 

External. — The  oil  is  a  powerful  antiseptic  and  disinfect- 
ant, and  is  even  said  to  be  three  times  more  efficient  in  this 
respect  than  carbolic  acid.  It  is  but  slightly  irritating  to  the 
skin,  unless  its  vapors  are  confined  by  bandaging,  when  it 
may  cause  vesicles  and  pustules.  Some  local  anaesthesia 
follows  primary  skin  irritation. 

Internal. — Digestive  Tract. — Oil  of  eucalyptus  excites 
gastric  and  salivary  secretion,  and  acts,  both  locally  and 
during  elimination,  as  a  stimulant  to  the  mucous  membrane 
of  the  alimentary  canal.  Large  doses  occasion  diarrhoea, 
and  the  faecal  discharges  are  impregnated  with  the  odor  of 
the  oil.  It  is  a  stomachic,  carminative,  antiseptic  and 
anodyne  in  the  digestive  tract. 

Circvlation. —  Oil  of  eucalyptus  arrests  the  amoeboid 
movements  of  the  white  blood  corpuscles,  and  diapedesis,  in 
inflammatory  areas ;  inhibits  the  growth  of  the  plasmodia 
malariae ;  is  an  antipyretic  and  antiperiodic,  and  generally 
comports  itself  like  quinine ;  but  is  nevertheless  distinctly 
inferior  to  it.  Small  doses  reflexly  stimulate  the  heart  and 
cause  an  increase  in  blood  pressure;  while  toxic  doses 
depress  the  heart's  action  and  lower  vascular  tension. 

Respiration.  —  Small  doses  accelerate  the  respiratory 
movements.  Large  doses  make  the  respiration  slower  and 
'Weaker,  and  death  ensues  through  respiratory  failure. 


EUCALYPTOL  497 

Nervous  System.  —  Poisonous  quantities  depress  the 
brain,  medulla  and  spinal  cord.  Eeflex  activity  is  lost. 
Animals  stagger,  suffer  great  loss  of  muscular  power  and 
sensation  in  their  limbs,  and  fall ;  the  breathing  is  slow  and 
irregular,  the  pulse  weak,  and  there  are  occasional  convul- 
sions.   The  breathing  stops  before  the  cardiac  pulsations. 

Elimination. — Oil  of  eucalyptus  is  excreted  by  the  skin, 
kidneys,  and  mucous  membrane  of  the  bronchial  tubes  and 
bowels,  and  therefore  stimulates  and  disinfects  these  parts 
during  its  elimination.  Hence  the  drug  is  a  diarphoretic, 
diuretic,  and  genito-urinary  stimulant,  stimulating  expector- 
ant, and  carminative. 

Administration. — The  oil,  or  eucalyptol,  are  administered 
in  emulsion  with  gum  ;  dissolved  in  alcohol ;  or  in  capsules. 

USES  OF  EUCALYPTUS,  OIL  OF  EUCALYPTUS  AND  EUCALYPTOL. 

External — Eucalyptol  is  probably  more  generally  useful 
than  either  eucalyptus  or  the  oil.  It  is  employed  as  an 
antiseptic  with  vaseline  (1-8),  on  sores,  wounds,  and  ulcers, 
and  in  lubricating  instruments  for  use  in  the  cavities  of  the 
body.  It  pa.rtially  disguises  the  odor  of  iodoform,  and  is 
frequently  combined  with  the  latter  in  ointment.  Eucalyptol 
is  serviceable  as  a  stimulating,  antiseptic  and  deodorant 
inhalation  in  catarrhal  diseases  of  the  respiratory  tract  with 
putrid  discharges,  and  in  pulmonary  gangrene.  The  ordinary 
doses  (by  the  mouth)  are  placed  in  hot  water  for  this 
purpose.  Eucalyptol,  with  sweet  oil  (1-5),  forms  an  efficient 
stimulating  and  anodyne  liniment. 

Internal. — In  chronic  bronchitis,  eucalyptol  is  often 
valuable  in  stimulating  and  disinfecting  the  bronchial  mucous 
membrane  during  its  elimination.  It  is  also  efficacious  in 
chronic  pyelitis  and  cystitis,  for  the  same  reason.  The  oil 
has  been  given  with  asserted  success  in  various  bacterial 
diseases,  as  septicaemia,  canine  distemper,  influenza,  etc.,  for 
its  antiseptic  action.  In  human  medicine,  eucalyptus  and 
its  derivatives  are  mainly  of  worth  as  substitutes  for  quinine 
in  malaria,  when  the  latter  drug  is  inadmissible.    Eucalyptol 


498  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

may  be  given  as  a  stomachic  and  carminative  in  digestive 
disorders  with  foul-smelling  faecal  evacuations. 

Arnica  Flores.    Arnica  Flowers. 

Synonym. — Fleurs  d'arnique,  Fr.;  wohlverleihbliithen, 
arnikabliithen,  G. 

The  flower  heads  of  Arnica  montana  Linne  (nat.  ord. 
Compositae). 

Habitat — Mountainous  regions  of  Europe  and  Northern 
Asia. 

Descriptioyi. — Heads  about  3  Cm.  broad ;  depressed- 
roundish,  consisting  of  a  scaly  involucre  in  two  rows,  and  a 
small,  nearly  flat,  hairy  receptacle,  bearing  about  sixteen 
yellow,  strap- shaped,  ten-nerved,  ray-florets,  and  numerous 
yellow,  five-toothed,  tubular  disk-florets  having  slender, 
spindle-shaped  achenes  crowned  by  a  hairy  pappus.  Odor 
feeble,  aromatic;  taste  bitter  and  acrid. 

CcMstituents. — 1,  an  ethereal  oil ;  2,  an  amorphous,  yellow, 
acrid,  bitter  principle,  arnicin ;  3,  resins ;  4,  tannic  acid ;  5, 
caprylic  and  capronic  acids. 

Dose,—R  &  C,  I  ss.-i.  (15.-30.) ;  D.,  gr.x.-xx.  (.6-1.3). 

PREPARATION. 

Tinctura  Amicce  Florum.    Tincture  of  Arnica  Flowers.    (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  percolation  of  arnica  flowers,  200,  with  diluted  alcohol  to 
make  1000. 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  I  i.  (30.) ;  D.,  m.xv.-xl.  (1.-2.6). 

Arnica  Eadix.    Arnica  Koot. 

Syncmym. — Arnicae  rhizoma,  B.P. ;  racine  d'arnique,  Fr.; 
arnikawurzel,  G. 

The  rhizome  and  roots  of  Arnica  montana  Linne  (nat. 
ord.  Compositae). 

Description. — Ehizome  about  5  Cm.  long,  and  3  or  4  Mm. 
thick ;  externally  brown,  rough  from  leaf  scars  ;  internally 
whitish,  with  a  rather  thick  bark  containing  a  circle  of  resin 


ARNICA  499 

cells,  surrounding  the  short,  yellowish  wood  wedges,  and 
large,  spongy  pith.  The  roots  numerous,  thin,  fragile ; 
grayish-brown,  with  a  thick  bark  containing  a  circle  of  resin 
cells.  Odor  somewhat  aromatic ;  taste  pungently  aromatic 
and  bitter. 

Constituents. — Identical  with  those  of  flowers. 

Dose. — Same  as  flowers. 

PREPARATIONS. 

These  are  unnecessarily  numerous  considering  the  insignificance  of 
the  drug. 

Extractum  Amicce  Radicis.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Extractuvi  Aimicoe.  Radicis  Fluidum.    (U,  S.  P.) 
Dose. — Same  as  root. 

Tinctura  Amicce.  Radicis.     (13.  S.  P.) 
Dose. — Half  that  of  the  tincture  of  the  flowers. 

Tinctura  Amicce.    (B.  P.) 
Dose— H.,  ^i.-ii.  (30.-60);  D.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Externally,  arnica,  especially  the  tinc- 
ture of  the  flowers,  increases  the  vascularity  of  the  integu- 
ment, and  may  cause  various  grades  of  superficial  inflamma- 
tion on  sensitive  skins  if  not  properly  diluted.  luternally, 
the  drug  stimulates  the  mucous  membrane  of  the  digestive 
tract,  and  is  stomachic  and  carminative.  Arnica  is  eliminated 
by  the  kidneys  and  mucous  membranes  and  stimulates  these 
parts  during  its  excretion.  Arnica  slows  and  stimulates  the 
heart  and  increases  vascular  tension  in  medicinal  doses, 
while  large  doses  augment  the  frequency  of  the  pulse.  This 
action  follows,  first,  stimulation,  and  later,  depression  of  the 
inhibitory  apparatus.  Toxic  quantities  occasion  gastro- 
intestinal irritation  and  nervous  symptoms,  as  giddiness, 
stupor,  delirium,  insensibility,  and  convulsions ;  with  rapid, 
feeble  pulse  and  sometimes  syncope. 

The  only  rational  use  for  arnica  is  in  stimulating  the 
skin  in  sprains  and  bruises.  The  tincture  of  the  flowers  is 
generally  diluted  with  water  (1-12)  for  this  purpose.  It  is 
doubtful  if  it  is  more  serviceable  than  alcohol  in  these  con- 


500  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

ditions.  There  is  no  sufficient  evidence  to  sliow  that  arnica 
possesses  any  therapeutic  value  when  given  internally, 
although  it  has  been  used  and  is  recommended  for  dysentery, 
chronic  bronchitis,  rheumatism,  nervous  disorders,  etc. 

Myrrha.    Myrrh.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Myrrhe,  F. 

A  gum-resin  obtained  from  Commiphora  Myrrha  (Nees) 
Engler  (nat.  ord.  Burseracese). 

Habitat  —  Eastern  Africa  and  Southwestern  Arabia, 
along  the  borders  of  the  Bed  Sea. 

Description. — In  roundish  or  irregular  tears  or  masses ; 
dusty,  brownish-yellow  or  reddish-brown ;  fracture  waxy, 
somewhat  splintery ;  translucent  on  the  edges,  somewhat 
marked  with  whitish  veins ;  odor  balsamic  ;  taste  aromatic, 
bitter  and  acrid.  When  triturated  with  water,  myrrh  yields 
a  brownish-yellow  emulsion ;  it  is  soluble  in  alcohol. 

Constituents. — 1,  an  active  resinous  principle,  myrrhin 
(C,,H3,0i„),  30  to  40  per  cent. ;  2,  myrrhol  (C,oH,,0,),  a  volatile 
oil,  2  8  per  cent. ;  3,  arabin,  a  gum,  50  to  60  per  cent.  ;  4,  a 
bitter  substance. 

Dose.—R.  k  C,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3ss.-L 
(2.-4.)  ;D.,gr.v.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Tinctura  Myrrhce.    Tincture  of  Myrrh.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  of  myrrh,  200,  with  alcohol,  and  filtration  to 
make  1000.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.—B..  &  C,  I  i.-ii.  (30.-60.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  iii.-vi.  (12  -24.)  ;  D., 

3  88.-i.(2.^.). 

Tinctura  Aloes  et  MyrrJice.    Tincture  of  Aloes  and  Myrrh. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  myrrh,  100;  purified  aloes, 
100;  liquorice  root;  with  alcohol  and  water  to  make  1000.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose— H.  &  C,  I  ii.-iv.  (60.-120.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  §  ss.-i.  (15.-30.) ;  D., 
3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Myrrh,  externally,  is  a  mild  stimulant 


CAPSICUM  501 

and  antiseptic  by  virtue  of  its  resin  and  volatile  oil.  It  is  a 
stomachic  and  carminative  internally,  exciting  the  appetite 
and  increasing  the  secretion,  motion  and  blood  supply  of  the 
stomach  and  bowels.  Myrrh  is  eliminated  by  the  mucous 
membranes  of  the  bronchial  and  genito-urinary  tracts,  and 
stimulates  and  disinfects  these  parts  during  its  excretion. 
The  drug  is  occasionally  prescribed  as  a  stimulating  expec- 
torant in  chronic  bronchitis ;  as  a  stimulant  and  antiseptic  in 
chronic  cystitis  ;  also  as  a  uterine  stimulant  and  emmenagogue 
in  ammenorrhoea,  and  in  chronic  leucorrhoea. 

Myrrh  is  thought  to  prove  beneficial  in  anaemia,  when 
combined  with  iron.  It  assists  the  action  of  purgatives,  and 
myrrh  may  be  exhibited  as  a  laxative  in  the  form  of  the 
tincture  of  aloes  and  myrrh.  The  tincture  forms  a  service- 
able mouth-wash  in  aqueous  emulsion  (1-16),  .and  is  some- 
times employed  as  a  stimulant  and  antiseptic  on  wounds, 
sores  and  ulcers,  diluted  with  4  to  8  parts  of  water.  Myrrh 
is  administered  in  tincture,  ball  or  pill. 

Class  2. — Used  Mainly  for  their  Stomachic  and 
Carminative  Action  Upon  the  Digestive  Tract. 

Capsicum.     Capsicum.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Capsici  fructus,  B.  P.  ;  cayenne  pepper, 
African  or  pod  pepper,  E.;  capsiqua,  piment  des  jardins, 
piment  rouge,  poivre  de  cayenne,  Fr. ;  spanischer  pfeffer,  G. 
Called  commonly  *'  red  pepper,"  when  dried  and  powdered. 

The  fruit  of  Capsicum  fastigiatum  Blume  (nat.  ord. 
Siolanacese). 

Habitat.  —  Tropical  America  ;  cultivated  also  in  other 
tropical  countries. 

Description. — O'blong-conical,  from  10  to  20  Mm.  long; 
supported  by  a  flattish,  cup- shaped,  five-toothed  calyx  with 
a  red,  shining,  membranous  and  translucent  pericarp 
enclosing  two  cells  and  containing  flat,  reniform,  yellowish 
seeds,  attached  to  a  thick,  central  placenta.  It  has  a  peculiar 
odor,  and  an  intensely  hot  taste. 


502  TEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Constituents. — 1,  capsaicin  (CgHi^NO,),  a  crystal lizable, 
acrid  body ;  2,  capsicin,  a  volatile  alkaloid ;  3,  a  fixed  oil ;  4, 
fatty  matter ;  5,  resin. 

i>ose.  — H.,  gr.xx.-3i.  (1.3-4.);  C,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  D., 
gr.i.-Yiii.  (.06- .5). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Capsici  Fluidum.    Fluid  Extract  of  Capsicum. 
(U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol,  and  evaporation, 
so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 

Dose.— H.,  TTixx.-3i.  (1.3-4.);  C,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  D.,  irii.-viii. 
(.06-.5). 

Tinctura  Capsici.    Tincture  of  Capsicum,    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Made  by  percolation  of  capsicum,  50,  with  alcohol  and  water  to 
make  1000.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.,  3ii.-iv.  (8.15.) ;  C,  §  ss.-i.  (15.-30.) ;  D.,  TTiv.-3i.  (.3-4.). 

Oleoresina  Capsici.     Oleoresin  of  Capsicimi .     (U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  percolation  with  ether,  distillation,  and  evaporation  of  the 
residue. 

Dose.— H.,  TTix.-xxx.  (.6-2.);  C,  3  8s.-i.  (2.-4.) ;  D.,  nil  (.015-.06). 

Administration. — Capsicum  and  the  oleoresin  are  given 
in  ball  or  pill.  The  fluid  extract  should  be  freely  diluted 
with  water. 

Action  and  Uses. — Capsicum  generally  resembles  the 
volatile  oils  in  its  action.  Externally,  it  is  rubefacient  and 
counter-irritant,  producing  about  the  same  degree  of  irrita- 
tion as  mustard,  but  causing  considerably  more  pain,  while 
its  fumes  are  unbearable.  Capsicum  is  used  mainly  as  a 
stomachic  and  a  carminative  in  augmenting  the  appetite, 
gastric  vascularity,  secretion  and  motion,  and  intestinal 
peristalsis.  Capsicum  is  employed  on  the  skin  in  local 
paralysis — as  of  the  lip — in  horses,  with  mustard  in  paste ; 
or  as  the  fluid  extract  painted  on  plaster  splints  to  prevent 
dogs  from  gnawing  them  off. 

Internally,  capsicum  is  of  greater  value  than  black  or 
white  pepper,  and  is  indicated  in  atonic  indigestion  and 
flatulent  colic  in  horses  (see  ammonium  carbonate,  p.  141). 


GINGER  503 

It  may  be  combined  advantageously  witli  bitters,  as  mix 
vomica.  Capsicum  is  a  favorite  stimulant  and  tonic  remedy 
— to  the  digestion — with  bird  fanciers.  It  is  also  said  to 
increase  the  laying  of  eggs  when  given  to  hens. 

Zingiber.     Ginger.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Ingwer,  G.;  gingember,  Fr. 

The  rhizome  of  Zingiber  officinale  Roscoe  (nat.  ord. 
Scitaminese). 

Habitat. — East  and  West  Indies  and  India ;  cultivated  in 
tropical  climates. 

Description. — About  5  to  10  Cm.  long,  10  to  15  Mm. 
broad,  and  4  to  8  Mm.  thick ;  flattish  on  one  side  ;  lobed  or 
clavately  branched ;  deprived  of  the  corky  layer  ;  pale,  buff- 
colored,  striate  ;  breaking  with  a  mealy,  rather  fibrous  frac- 
ture, showing  numerous  small,  scattered  resin  cells  and 
fibro-vascular  bundles,  the  latter  enclosed  by  a  nucleus 
sheath  ;  agreeably  aromatic  and  of  a  pungent  and  warm  taste. 

Constituents. — 1,  a  volatile  oil ;  2,  a  resin  ;  3,  gingerol, 
said  to  supply  pungent  taste,  while  the  oil  gives  flavor. 

Dose.—B..,  3ii.-5i.  (8.-30.);  C,  §i.-iv.  (30.-120.);  Sh.  & 
Sw.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.) ;  D.,  gr.v.-xv.  (.3-1.). 

PREPARATION. 

Extractum  Zingiberis  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Ginger. 
(U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol,  and  evaporation, 
so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 
Dose. — Same  as  that  of  ginger. 

Action  and  Uses,  —  Ginger  is  chiefly  administered  in 
powder  as  a  stomachic  and  carminative  in  atonic  indigestion 
of  horses  and  ruminants.  It  is  frequently  combined  with 
sodium  bicarbonate  and  bitters.  Ginger  also  aids  the  action 
of  purgatives  and  prevents  griping.  The  powder  or  fluid 
extract  should  be  added  to  magnesium  sulphate  when  it  is 
given  in  full  purgative  doses  to  cattle  or  sheep.  (See  magne- 
sium and  sodium  sulphate,  pp.  131  and  154). 


504  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Mentha  Piperita.     Peppermint.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Folia  (herba)  menthae  piperitae,  P.G.;  menthe 
poivree,  Fr.;  pfeffermiiize,  G. 

The  leaves  and  tops  of  Mentha  piperita  Smith  (nat.  ord. 
Labiatae). 

Habitat. — Indigenonsin  North  America,Europe  and  Asia. 

Description. — Leaves  about  5  Cm.  long,  petiolate,  ovate- 
lanceolate,  acute,  sharply  serrate,  glandular,  nearly  smooth ; 
the  few  hairs  containing  crystals  of  menthol  in  one  or  more 
thin  cells  ;  branches  quadrangular,  often  purplish  ;  flowers  in 
terminal,  conical  spikes,  with  a  tubular,  five-toothed,  often 
purplish  calyx,  a  purplish  four-lobed  corolla,  and  four  short 
stamens ;  odor  aromatic ;  taste  pungent  and  cooling. 

Constituents. — 1,  a  volatile  oil ;  2,  menthol ;  3,  menthene 
(C„H„). 

Oleum  Mentha  Piperita.    Oil  of  Peppermint. 
(U.  S.  k  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Essence  de  menthe  poivree,  Fr.;  pfeffer- 
minzol,  G. 

A  volatile  oil  distilled  from  peppermint. 

Properties. — A  colorless,  or  yellowish,  or  greenish-yellow 
liquid,  becoming  darker  and  thicker  by  age  and  exposure  to 
the  air  ;  having  the  characteristic  strong  odor  of  peppermint, 
and  a  strongly  aromatic,  pungent  taste,  followed  by  a  sensa- 
tion of  cold  when  air  is  drawn  into  the  mouth.  Spec.  gr. 
0.9  to  0.920. 

It  forms  a  clear  solution  with  an  equal  volume  of  alcohol, 
but  becomes  turbid  when  somewhat  further  diluted. 

Constitiients. — 1,  menthol ;  2,  menthene,  a  liquid  terpene 
obtained  by  distillation. 

Dose.—R.  k  C,  H^xv.-xxx.  (1.-2.) ;  D.,  TTli-v.  (.06-.3). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Spiritus  Menthce  Piperitce.     Spirit  of  Peppermint.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Synonym.— l^ssence  de  menthe  poivree,  Fr.;  Englisch  pfeffermin- 
zessenz,  G.;  spiritus  menthae  piperitse  anglicus,  P.G. 


MENTHOL  505 

Oil  of  peppermint,  100  ;  peppermint,  10  ;  alcohol  to  make  1000. 
Made  by  maceration  and  filtration.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  3  ii.iv.  (8.-15.)  ;   D.  mxv.-xxx.  (1.-2.). 

Aqua  Menthce  Piperitce.     Peppermint  Water.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P. ) 

Oil  of  peppermint,  2  ;  precipitated  calcium  phosphate,  4  ;  water  to 
make  1000.    Made  by  trituration  and  filtration.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Dose. — Used  as  vehicle  in  canine  practice . 


Menthol.    Menthol.     C,„Hi,OH.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Mint  or  peppermint-camphor. 

A  stearopten  (having  the  character  of  a  secondary 
alcohol)  obtained  from  the  official  oil  of  peppermint  (from 
Mentha  piperita  Smith),  or  from  Japanese  or  Chinese  oil  of 
peppermint  (from  Mentha  avensis  Linne,  var.  piperascens 
Holmes,  and  Mentha  Canadensis  Linne,  var.  glabrata 
Holmes  ;  nat.  ord.  Labiatse). 

Derivation. — Made  from  the  oil  of  peppermint  by  frac- 
tional distillation  ;  freezing  of  the  higher  boiling  point  pro- 
duct, and  crystallization. 

Properties. — Colorless,  acicular  or  prismatic  crystals, 
having  a  strong  and  pure  odor  of  i)eppermint,  and  a  warm, 
aromatic  taste,  followed  by  a  sensation  of  cold  when  air  is 
drawn  in  the  mouth.  Slightly  soluble  in  water;  freely 
soluble  in  alcohol*  ether,  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide  or 
glacial  acetic  acid.  When  it  is  triturated  with  about  an  equal 
weight  of  camphor,  thymol,  or  chloral  hydrate,  the  mixture 
becomes  liquid.  Menthol  may  be  dissolved  by  heat  in  oleic 
acid,  fats  or  liquid  vaseline. 

I)ose.—li.,  gr.vii.-xv.  (,5-1.);  D.,  gr.ss,-ii.  (.03-.12). 

ACTION   AND   USES   OF   PEPPERMINT   AND   MENTHOL. 

Peppermint  and  oil  of  peppermint  owe  their  medicinal 
virtues  chiefly  to  the  menthol  they  contain.  They  resemble 
the  other  volatile  oils  in  most  respects,  but  are  more  anges-. 
thetic  and  antiseptic  than  some.  Menthol  is  used  mostly 
externally,  and  is  extremely  valuable  in  relieving  itching 
and  neuralgia  pain.     It  may  be  employed  with  alcohol  or 


506  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

chloroform  in  solution  ( 3  ss.  to  J  i.),  in  urticaria  or  pruritus. 
An  ointment  is  also  serviceable,  or  a  solution  by  heat  in 
oleic  acid  (1  to  24).  For  burns,  the  following  will  be  found 
beneficial :  Sweet  oil  and  lime  water,  each  one  ounce ; 
menthol,  one  drachm.  The  cooling  sensation  produced  by 
menthol  is  due  to  a  specific  effect  upon  the  nerves  of  temper- 
ature. The  anaesthetic  and  antiseptic  action  of  menthol  has 
been  taken  advantage  of  in  the  treatment  of  boils  and  super- 
ficial abscesses.  A  10  to  50  per  cent,  solution  in  ether  is 
said  to  abort  these  lesions  when  painted  frequently  on  the 
inflamed  parts.  A  menthol  and  camphor  solution,  obtained 
by  dissolving  fifteen  grains  of  each  in  an  ounce  of  liquid 
petrolatum,  is  one  of  the  best  preparations  to  use  in  an 
atomizer  or  dropper  for  acute  or  chronic  nasal  catarrh  of 
dogs. 

Internally,  the  essence  of  peppermint  or  oil  are  of  worth 
in  cases  of  mild  colic  and  flatulence  on  account  of  their 
anaesthetic,  carminative  and  antiseptic  action.  Menthol  may 
be  given  to  dogs  to  relieve  vomiting.  Peppermint  water 
assuages  thirst  in  fever,  and  this  preparation  is  also  used  as 
a  pleasant  vehicle  in  the  administration  of  disagreeable 
drugs  to  dogs.  The  oil  is  prescribed  in  pill  or  ball  to  pre- 
vent the  griping  of  cathartics. 

Administration, — The  essence  is  the  preparation  in  most 
common  use  and  is  given  in  water.  The  oil  is  dissolved  in 
spirit,  or  exhibited  to  dogs  on  sugar.  Menthol  may  be 
administered  in  alcohol  and  syrup,  equal  parts  ;  or  in  pill  or 
capsule  to  dogs. 

Mentha  viridis  (spearmint)  is  official  together  with 
oleum  menthse  viridis  (oil  of  spearmint),  spiritus  menthse 
viridis  (spirit  of  spearmint),  and  aqua  menthse  viridis.  The 
actions,  uses  and  doses  are  the  same  as  those  of  peppermint 
aud  its  preparations,  but  the  latter  are  more  popular  and 
pleasant. 

Anisum.     Anise. 

Synonym. — Anisi  fructus,  B.P.;  anis,  Fr.;  anis,  G. 


ILLICIUM  507 

The  friiifc  of  Pimpinella  Anisum  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Umbel- 
liferse) . 

Habitat — Southeastern  Europe,  Egypt,  "Western  Asia; 
also  cultivated. 

Description. — About  4  or  5  Mm.  long,  ovate,  compressed 
at  the  sides ;  grayish,  finely  hairy,  and  consisting  of  two 
mericarps,  each  with  a  flat  face  and  five  light  brownish,  fili- 
form ridges,  and  about  fifteen  thin  oil  tubes,  which  can  be 
seen  in  a  transverse  section  by  the  microscope.  It  has  an 
agreeable,  aromatic  odor,  and  a  sweet,  spicy  taste.  It  may 
be  distinguished  from  conium  fruit  by  the  odor  Jind  taste, 
while  the  latter  has  usually  single  mericarps  which  are 
smooth,  grooved  upon  the  face,  and  have  crenate  ridges  with 
wrinkles  between  them,  and  no  oil  tubes. 

Constituents. — Oil  of  anise. 

Dose.—R.  <fe  C,  I  i.-ii.  (30.-60.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ii.-iii. 
(8.-12.) ;  D.,  gr.x.-xxx.  (.6-2.). 

Illicium.     Ulicium.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Anisi  stellati  fructus,  B.P.;  star  anise. 

The  fruit  of  illicium  verum  Hooker  filius  (nat.  ord. 
Magnoliaceae). 

Habitat  — North  An  am. 

Description. — The  fruit  is  pedunculate  and  consists  of 
eight  stellately  arranged  carpels,  which  are  boat-shaped, 
about  10  Mm.  long,  rather  woody,  wrinkled,  straight-beaked, 
brown,  dehiscent  on  the  upper  suture,  internally  reddish- 
brown,  glossy,  and  containing  a  single,  flattish,  oval,  glossy, 
brownish-yellow  seed ;  odor  anise-like,  taste  of  the  carpels 
sweet  and  aromatic,  and  of  the  seeds  oily.  Similar  to  the 
poisonous  fruit  of  Illicium  anisatum  Linne  (Illicium  religi- 
osum  Siebold),  the  capsules  of  which  are  more  woody, 
shrivelled,  and  have  a  thin,  mostly  curved  beak ;  a  faint, 
clove-like  odor,  and  an  unpleasant  taste. 

Constituents. — Oil  of  anise. 

Dose. — Same  as  that  for  anise. 


508  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

OLEU]yr  Anise.     Oil  of  Anise.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

A  volatile  oil  distilled  from  anise. 

Properties. — A  colorless  or  pale  yellow,  thin  and  strongly- 
refractive  liquid,  haviog  the  characteristic  odor  of  anise,  and 
a  sweetish,  mildly  aromatic  taste.  Spec.  gr.  about  0.980  to 
0.990.     Soluble  in  an  equal  volume  of  alcohol. 

Dose.—R.,  inxx.-xxx.  (1.3-2.);  D.,  Il^i.-v.  (.06-.3). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Aqua  Anise.    Anise  Water.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Oil  of  anise,  2  ;  precipitated  calcium  phosphate,  4  ;  water  to  make 
1000.     (U.S.  P.)    Used  as  vehicle. 

Spirittis  Anisi.     Spirit  of  Anise.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Oil  of  anise,  100  ;  deodorized  alcohol,  900.    (U.  S.  P.) 
Dose.— D.,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.). 

ACTIONS  AND  USES  OF  ANISE  AND  ILLICIUM.- 

Oil  of  anise  resembles  iu  actio q  the  other  volatile  oils. 
It  is  employed  with  olive  oil  or  alcohol  (1-10)  to  kill  fleas  or 
lice  on  dogs,  rubbed  over  the  skin ;  and  one  drop  of  the  pure 
oil  may  be  placed  on  the  feathers  of  fowl  to  cause  destruc- 
tion of  lice.  The  oil  is  sometimes  prescribed  to  disguise  the 
taste  or  odor  of  drugs  (see  potassa  sulphurata),  and  is 
ordered  iu  cough  mixtures  for  its  expectorant  properties. 

Anise  fruit  is  given  to  horses  and  ruminants  on  their 
food — frequently  with  sodium  bicarbonate  and  ginger — to 
relieve  mild  forms  of  indigestion  and  flatulence  through  its 
stomachic  and  carminative  action. 

Cardamomum.     Cardamom. 

Synonym. — Cardamomi  semina,  B.P.;  fructus  vel  semen 
cardamomi  minoris,  P.G. ;  carc^amomes,  Fr.  ;  cardamomen, 
kleine  kardamomen,  G. 

The  fruit  of  Elettaris  repens  (Sonnerat)  Baillon  (nat 
ord.  Scitaminese). 

Habitat. — Malabar. 


COEIANDER  509 

Description, — Fruit  ovoid  or  oblong,  from  10  to  15  Mm. 
long;  of  a  pale  buff  color,  with  a  thin,  tasteless  pericarp. 
Seeds  4  Mm.  long,  reddish-brown,  and  have  an  agreeable 
odor  and  a  pungent,  aromatic  taste.  The  seeds  are  active  ; 
the  pericarp  has  no  medicinal  virtue. 

Constituents. — 1,  a  volatile  oil,  which  is  a  terpene  (CioHig); 
2,  a  fixed  oil. 

Dose. — Same  as  that  of  anise. 

A  tinctura  and  tinctura  cardamomi  compositse  are  official. 
They  serve  as  coloring  (red)  and  flavoring  agents,  and  may 
be  employed  as  vehicles  in  doses  of  one  to  two  drachms,  in 
canine  practice.  The  dose  of  the  fluid  extract  is  the  same 
as  that  of  the  drug. 


CoRiANDRUM.     Coriander. 

Synonym. — Coriandri  fructus,  B.P. ;  coriander  fruit,  E. ; 
coriandre,  Fr.;  koriander,  G.;  fructus  coriandri,  P.G. 

The  fruit  of  Coriandrum  sativum  Linne  (nat.  ord. 
Umbelliferse). 

Habitat. — Southern  Europe  or  Central  Asia. 

Description.  —  Globular,  about  4  Mm.  in  diameter, 
brownish-yellow ;  odor  and  taste  agreeably  aromatic. 

Constitvents. — 1,  the  volatile  oil,  oleum  coriandri,  a  color- 
less, or  slightly  yellow  liquid,  having  the  characteristic  odor 
of  coriander,  and  a  warm,  spicy  taste. 

Dose  of  coriander  and  its  oil,  same  as  for  anise  and 
its  oil. 

FcENicuLUM,     Fennel.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym.  —  Foeniculi  fructus,  B.P. ;  semen  foeniculi, 
fennel  fruit  or  seeds,  E.  ;  semences  de  fenouil,  Fr.;  fenchel- 
samen,  G. 

The  fruit  of  Foeniculum  capillaceum  Gilbert  (nat.  ord. 
TJmbelliferse). 

Habitat. — Southern  Europe  and  Levant. 


510  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Description. — Oblong,  nearly  cylindrical,  from  4  to  8  Mm. 
long ;  brownish  or  greenish-brown  ;  odor  and  taste  aromatic, 
anise-like. 

Constituents. — A  volatile  oil  of  almost  similar  action  and 
composition  to  oil  of  anise,  oleum  foeuicali.  A  colorless,  or 
pale  yellowish  liquid,  having  the  characteristic  aromatic 
odor  of  fennel,  and  a  sweetish,  mild  and  spicy  taste.  Soluble 
in  alcohol. 

Dose  of  fennel  and  its  oil,  same  as  that  for  anise  and  its 
oil. 

FoENUGREEK.     (Non-official.) 

The  seeds  of  Trigonella  Foenum  Grsecum,  cultivated  in 
France  and  Germany.  They  are  oblong,  cylindrical,  some- 
what compressed,  obliquely  truncated  at  each  end ;  1  to  2 
lines  long;  of  a  brownish-yellow  color,  and  have  a  strong, 
peculiar  odor,  and  oily,  bitterish  taste.  Fcenugreek  contains 
both  a  volatile  and  fixed  oil. 

Dose. — Same  as  for  anise. 

ACTIONS  AND  USES   OF  CARDAMOM,  CORIANDER,  FENNEL  AND 
FENUGREEK. 

These  drugs  resemble  anise  in  actions,  uses,  and  doses. 
They  enter  into  the  composition  of  many  popular  tonic  or 
"condition"  powders  and  drinks,  and,  by  their  stomachic 
and  carminative  properties,  aid  digestion.  Ginger  is  perhaps 
in  more  frequent  demand  than  other  agents  of  this  class,  by 
the  profession. 

Class  3.— Used  Mainly   for   Their      Antispasmodic 
Action  in  Stimulating  the  Nervous  System. 

Valeriana.    Valerian. 

Synonym. — Valerianae  rhizoma,  B.P.  ;  valeriane,  Fr.  ; 
baldrianwurzel,  G. 

The  rhizome  and  roots  of  Valeriana  officinalis  Linne 
(nat.  or.d.  Valerianese). 


AMMONIUM  VALERIANATE  511 

Hohitat — Europe  and  Northern  Asia.  Naturalized  in 
New  England. 

Dt'scription. — EhizOme  from  2  to  4  Cm.  long,  and  1  to  2 
Cm.  thick  ;  upright,  subglobular,  or  obconical ;  truncate  at 
both  ends ;  brown  or  yellowish-brown,  internally  whitish  or 
pale  brownish,  with  a  narrow  circle  of  white  wood  under  the 
thin  bark.  Roots  numerous,  slender,  brittle,  brown,  with  a 
thick  bark,  and  slender,  ligneous  cord.  Odor  peculiar, 
becoming  stronger  and  unpleasant  on  keeping ;  taste  cam- 
phoraceous  and  somewhat  bitter. 

Constituents. — 1,  a  volatile  oil ;  2,  valerianic  acid  (CgHioOj), 
a  colorless,  oily  acid,  with  burning  taste  and  odor  of  valerian. 
Soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether,  and  in  30  parts  of  water. 
Valerianic  acid  is  also  made  artificially  by  a  complicated  pro- 
cess from  the  distillation  of  chromic  acid  and  amylic  alcohol.* 
3,  tannic  acid  ;  4,  resin  ;  5,  malic,  formic  and  acetic  acids. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  I  i.-ii.  (30.-60.) ;  D.,  gr.x.-  3  i.  (6.-4.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Valeriance  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Valerian. 
(U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  water,  and  evaporation, 
so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  §  i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  D.,  nix.- 3  i.  (.6-4.). 

A  tinctura  Valerianae  (1-5)  and  a  tinctura  valerianaB  ammoniata 
(1-5),  prepared  with  aromatic  spirit  of  ammonia,  are  also  official.  The 
dose  of  either  is  3  ss.-ii.  (2.-8.),  for  dogs. 

Ammonii  Valerianas.     Ammonium  Valerianate. 
NH,C,H90,.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  the  action  of  ammonia  gas  upon  valerianic 
acid,  and  crystallization. 

Properties. — Minute,  colorless,  cubical  crystals,  or  a  white 
granular  powder ;  without  odor  when  colorless,  but  emitting 
a  slight  odor  of  iodine  when  colored,  and  having  a  sharp, 
saline  taste.  Very  hygroscopic.  Soluble  in  1  part  of  water, 
and  in  9  parts  of  alcohol. 

Dose.— D.,  gr.ii.-v.  (.12-.3) 


512  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Ferri  Valerianas.     Ferric  Valerianate.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  precipitating  a  solution  of  ferric  sulphate  with 
a  solution  of  sodium  valerianate,  and  washing  and  drying 
the  precipitate. 

Properties. — A  dark,  brick-red,  amorphous  powder  of 
somewhat  varying  chemical  composition  ;  having  the  odor  of 
valerianic  acid  and  a  mildly  styptic  taste  ;  permanent  in  dry 
air.     Insoluble  in  cold  water,  but  readily  soluble  in  alcohol. 

Z>o»e.— D.,  gr.i.-iiL  (.06-.18). 

ZiNCi  Yalerianas.    Zinc  Valerianate.    Zn(C5H902),  -h  2  H^O. 
(U.  S.  k  B.  P.) 

Made  by  crystallization  from  a  mixture  of  hot  solutions 
of  zinc  sulphate  and  sodium  valerianate. 

Properties. — White,  pearly  scales,  having  the  odor  of 
valerianic  acid,  and  a  sweetish,  astringent  and  metallic  taste. 
On  exposure  to  the  air  it  slowly  loses  valerianic  acid. 
Soluble  in  100  parts  of  water,  and  in  40  parts  of  alcohol. 

Incompatibility. — Incompatible  with  acids,  metallic  salts 
and  soluble  carbonates ;  also  vegetable  astringents. 

Dose.— D.,  gr.i.-iii.  f.06-.18). 

Administration. — Valerian  should  be  given  in  the  form 
of  the  fluid  extract  to  horses,  and  this  preparation  or  the 
tinctures  may  be  exhibited  to  dogs  in  dilution.  Valerianic 
acid  is  not  used  in  medicine  except  to  make  valerianates. 
Of  the  salts,  the  zinc  valerianate  is  the  most  popular,  and  is 
administered  in  pills  in  canine  practice. 

ACTION  AND  USES  OF  VALERIAN  AND  VALERIANATES. 

The  physiological  action  of  valerianic  acid  and  the 
valerianates  is  an  unknown  quantity,  but  clinical  evidence 
supports  their  value.  The  volatile  oil  in  valerian  has  much 
the  same  properties  as  other  volatile  oils  in  stimulating 
secretion,  motion,  vascularity  and  appetite,  in  relation  to  the 
digestive  organs  ;  and,  in  its  elimination,  the  oil  excites  the 


ASAFETIDA  513 

mucous  membranes  of  the  bronchial  tubes  and  genito-urinary 
tract.  The  oil  also  stimulates  the  circulation  reflexly.  Toxic 
doses  of  the  oil  paralyze  the  brain  and  cord  and  depress  the 
circulation  ;  while  lethal  quantities  of  ammonium  valerianate 
are  said  to  first  excite  the  spinal  motor  tract  and  cause  con- 
vulsions, and  to  finally  occasion  spinal  depression  and 
paralysis.  Valerian  and  the  valerianates  are  called  antispas- 
modics in  stimulating  and  streugthening  an  enfeebled 
nervous  system  and  thus  combatting  disorders  which  are 
created  by  an  increased  susceptibility  to  impulses  originat- 
ing within  the  brain,  or  outside  of  the  body.  Valerian  is 
both  recommended  and  used  in  the  treatment  of  polyuria 
and  diabetes  insipidus  of  the  horse  ;  in  chorea  of  dogs 
resulting  from  distemper,  and  occasionally  in  hysteria, 
epilepsy,  convalescence  from  acute  diseases,  -and  nervous 
restlessness.  Although  the  drug  is  of  secondary  importance, 
it  finds  k  much  larger  field  of  usefulness  in  human  medicine. 
Zinc  valerianate  is  more  commonly  employed  in  canine 
practice  for  chorea.  Ferric  valerianate  is  supposed  to  com- 
bine the  tonic  and  antispasmodic  action  of  the  two  constitu- 
ents in  one  preparation.  The  oil  of  valerian  is  a  useful 
remedy  (in  emulsion)  as  a  carminative  in  flatulence.  It  may 
be  given  to  horses  in  doses  of  3  ss.-i.;  and  to  dogs  in  quanti- 
ties of  1T|_ii.-v. 

AsAFffiTiDA..     Asafetida.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Gummi-resina  asafoetida,  ase  fetide,  asafoe- 
tida,  Fr.;  stinkasant,  teufelsdreck,  G. 

A  gum-resin  obtained  from  the  root  of  Ferula  foetida 
(Bunge)  Kegel  (nat.  ord.  Umbellif erse). 

Habitat. — Persia,  Afghanistan  and  Turkestan. 

Properties. — In  roundish  tears,  from  2  to  6  Mm.  or  more 
in  diameter;  externally  pale  yellowish-brown,  internally 
milk-white ;  brittle  when  cold,  and  breaking  with  a  flat, 
conchoidal,  and  waxy  fracture  ;  or  the  tears  are  super^cially 
united  into  irregular  masses  without  any  intervening  dark- 


514  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

colored  substance.  It  has  a  peculiar  odor,  and  a  bitter, 
acrid,  nauseous  taste.  "When  triturated  it  readily  yields  a 
milk-white  emulsion. 

Constituents. — 1,  a  volatile  oil  (3-9  per  cent.),  containing 
as  its  most  important  ingredient  oil  of  garlic,  which  gives 
asafoetida  its  disagreeable  odor  ;  2,  gum,  about  25  per  cent. ; 
S,  resin,  50  to  60  per  cent.,  containing  ferulaic  acid  (CioHjoOj. 

Dose.—B..  &  C,  I  ss.'i.  (15.-30.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.); 
D.,  gr.iii.-xii.  (.18-.8). 

Administration. — Asafoetida  is  given  in  ball  to  the  larger 
animals  or  in  an  extemporaneous  emulsion  which  is  readily 
made — owing  to  the  gum  in  the  drug — by  trituration  with 
water.  Asafetida  is  administered  to  dogs  in  pill.  The  drug 
may  also  be  injected  in  aqueous  mixture  per  rectum. 

Preparations. — Pilulse  asafoetidse  (gr.iii.  each) ;  dose — D., 
1-4.  Tinctura  asafoetidse  (1-5) ;  dose— H.,  I  ii.-iv.  (60.-120.); 
D.,  3  ss.-i  (2.-4.).  Emulsum  (mistura)  asafoetidae,  milk  of 
asafetida  (1-25) ;  dose— D.,  5  s8.-i.  (15.-30.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Asafetida  is  of  value  by  reason  of  its 
volatile  oil,  and  therefore  possesses  much  the  same  action  as 
other  agents  of  this  class.  In  experiments  on  man  asafetida 
caused  "  stomachache,"  activity  of  the  bowels,  increased 
pulse  rate  and  respiratory  movements,  headache,  dizziness, 
and  sexual  desire. 

Asafetida  is  chiefly  used  as  a  carminative,  stimulating 
expectorant,  and  nerve  stimulant  or  antispasmodic.  Liquid 
preparations  may  cause  nausea  and  vomiting  in  dogs  owing 
to  the  nauseous  taste.  The  drug  is  of  most  service  in  flatulent 
colic  of  horses,  when  it  is  combined  with  ammonium  carbon- 
ate in  ball,  or  is  given  in  this  form  simultaneously  with 
liuseed  oil  and  oil  of  turpentiue. 

In  atonic  constipation  of  horses,  asafetida  is  prescribed 
with  aloes  in  ball.  Asafetida  is  occasionally  employed  as  a 
stimulating  expectorant  in  chronic  bronchitis,  and  in  the 
later  stages  of  bronchial  catarrh,  but  it  is  probably  inferior 
to  ammoniacum  for  this  purpose.  As  an  antispasmodic 
agent,  asafetida  is  useful  in  functional  spasmodic  affections. 


AMMONIAC  515 

including  hysteria,  chorea  and  convulsions.  The  emulsion 
may  be  given  in  enema  to  dogs,  in  the  two  latter  disorders. 
Finally,  tincture  of  asafetida  is  recommended  to  be 
added  to  alcoholic  liquors  in  veterinary  practice  to  prevent 
their  "  misappropriation  "  by  stable  attendants. 

Ammoniacum.     Ammoniac.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Gummi-resina  ammoniacum,  E. ;  ammonia- 
que,  gommresine  ammoniaque,  Fr.;  ammoniakgummi,  G. 

A  gum  resin  obtained  from  Dorema  Ammoniacum  Don 
{nat.  ord.  Umbelliferse). 

Habitat — Eastern  Persia  and  Turkestan. 

Properties. — In  roundish  tears,  from  2  to  6  Mm.  or  more 
in  diameter;  externally  pale  yellowish-brown,  internally 
milk-white ;  brittle  when  cold,  and  breaking  with  a  flat, 
-conchoidal  and  waxy  fiacture  ;  or  the  tears  are  superficially 
united  into  irregular  masses  without  any  intervening  dark- 
colored  substance.  It  has  a  peculiar  odor  and  a  bitter,  acrid 
and  nauseous  taste.  When  triturated  with  water  it  readily 
yields  a  milk-white  emulsion. 

Constituents. — 1,  a  volatile  oil,  lJ-4  per  cent.  ;  2,  a  resin, 
70  per  cent.  ;  3,  a  gum,  20-28  per  cent. 

Dose.—R.  &,  C,  §i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3ii.-iv. 
<8.-15.) ;  D.,  gr.v.-xxx.  (.3-2.) 

PREPARATIONS. 

Emulsum  Ammoniaci.     Emulsion   (or  mixture)  of  Ammoniac  (1-25). 

(U.  S.  &B.  P.) 
Dose.— D.,  I  ss.-i.  (15.-30.) 

Emplastrum  Ammoniaci  cum  Hydrargyro.    Ammoniac  Plaster 
with  Mercury.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Administration. — In  emulsion,  ball  or  pill. 

ACTION  AND   USES. 

Ammoniac  is  a  drug  of  minor  importance,  resembling 
asafoetida  and  containing  a  small  quantity  of  a  volatile  oil 
having  the   same   action  as  other  oils  of  this  class.     Am- 


516  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

moniac  is  occasionally  employed  externally  as  a  mild  counter- 
irritant,  in  plasters.  Since  its  volatile  oil  is  eliminated  by 
the  bronchial  mucous  membrane,  ammoniac  is  given  intern- 
ally as  a  stimulating  and  slightly  disinfecting  expectorant  in 
chronic  bronchitis  with  or  without  excessive  secretion. 

Class  4. — Used  Mainly  for  their  Stimulant  and 
Diuretic  Action  on  the  Kidneys  and  Genito- 
urinary Tract. 

BucHU.    Buchu.     (U.  a  -P.) 

Synonym. — Buchu  folia,  B.P. ;  feuiles  de  bucco,  Fr. ; 
buckublatter,  buccoblatter,  G. 

The  leaves  of  Barosma  betulina  (Thunberg)  Bartling  et 
Wendland  and  Barosma  Crenulata  (Linne)  Hooker  (nat.  ord^ 
Rutacese). 

Habitat— ^oxxih  Africa. 

Description. — About  15  Mm.  long,  roundish  obovate, 
with  a  rather  wedge-shaped  base,  or  varying  between  oval 
and  obovate,  obtuse,  crenate  or  serrate,  with  a  gland  at  the 
base  of  each  tooth  ;  dull  yellowish-green  ;  thickish,  pellucid- 
punctate  ;  odor  and  taste  strongly  aromatic,  somewhat  mint- 
like, pungent  and  bitterish. 

Constittients. — 1,  a  volatile  oil  having  an  odor  somewhat 
like  peppermint,  1^  per  cent.;  2,  a  stearopten  (Buchu  cam- 
phor or  diosphenol,  CioHigOa),  possessing  an  odor  like  pep- 
permint and  in  solution  in  a  liquid  hydrocarbon,  but  crystal- 
lizing on  exposure  to  the  air;  3,  barosmiu,  a  glncoside, 
soluble  in  ether,  volatile  oils,  diluted  acids  and  alkalies ;  4, 
gum  ;  5,  rutin,  a  bitter  substance. 

Dose.—U.  &  C,  5i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  D.,  gr.xv.-xxx.  (1.-2.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Buchu  Fluidum.    Fliiid  Extract  of  Buchu.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration,  percolation  and  evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  = 
1  Gm  of  Buchu. 

Dose.— H.  &C.,  §i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  D.,  ttixv.-xxx.  (1.-2.) 


OIL  OF  JUNIPEU  517 

An  infusion  (1-20)  by  steeping  leaves  in  boiling  water  for  half  an 
hour  in  a  closed  vtssel,  is  sometimes  preferred,  and  will  be  taken  volun- 
tarily by  the  larger  animals  in  linseed  tea. 

Tinctura  Buchu.    Tincture  of  Buchu.     (B.  P.) 
Dose. — Twice  that  of  the  fluid  extract. 

ACTION  AND   USES. 

The  volatile  oil  and  bitter  principle  act  upon  the  diges- 
tive organs  as  an  aromatic  bitter,  promoting  Appetite  and 
digestion  in  small  doses,  while  large  doses  cause  nausea  and 
vomiting  in  dogs.  The  volatile  oil  is  absorbed  and  elimin- 
ated by  the  mucous  membranes,  particularly  of  the  bronchial 
tubes  and  genito- urinary  tract.  It  thus  stimul.ites  and  dis- 
infects the  mucous  membranes,  slightly  increases  the  secre- 
tion of  urine,  and  imparts  its  peculiar  odor  to  the  latter. 

The  drug  is  of  considerable  value  in  the  treatment  of 
chronic  or  subacute  pyelitis,  cystitis  and  urethritis.  It  is 
stimulating,  but  only  slightly  irritating.  Buchu  has  been 
recommended  in  chronic  nephritis,  and  is  useful  in  irritation 
of  the  urinary  bladder,  with  frequent  micturition,  combined 
with  spirit  of  nitrous  ether.  Buchu  is  occasionally  pre- 
scribed in  the  later  stages  of  bronchitis  or  in  the  chronic 
form  of  this  disease,  and  is  employed  in  its  native  country 
as  a  remedy  for  chronic  diarrhoea  and  dysentery. 

Oleum  Juniperl     Oil  of  Juniper.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Oleum  fructus  (Vel  Baccse)  juniperi,  oil  of 
juniper  berries,  E.;  essence  de  genievre,  Fr.;  wachholder- 
beerol,  G. 

A  volatile  oil  distilled  from  the  fruit  of  Juniperus  Com- 
munis Linne  (nat.  ord.  Coniferse). 

Habitat — Canada  and  United  States  ;  Eocky  Mountains, 
south  to  New  Mexico. 

Properties.  —  A  colorless,  or  faintly  greenish-yellow 
liquid,  becoming  darker  and  thicker  by  age  and  exposure  to 
air;  having  the  characteristic  odor  of  juniper,  and  a  warm, 


518  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

aromatic,  somewhat  terebinthinate  and  bitterish  taste.  Spec. 
gr.  0.850  to  0.890.  Soluble  in  about  four  times  its  volume  of 
alcohol. 

Composition. — Oil  of  juniper  is  a  terpene  (CioHje),  and  is 
isomeric  with  oil  of  turpentine. 

Dose,—B.,  &  C,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.) ;  D.,  H^iL-x.  (.12- .6). 

PREPARATIONS. 

SpiHtus  Juniperi.    Spirit  of  Juniper.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Oil  of  juniper,  8  ;  oil  of  caraway,  1 ;  oil  of  fennel,  1  ;  alcohol,  1400  ; 
water  to  make  2000.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  §  i.-ii.  (30.-60.) ;  D.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4  ). 

Spiritus  Juniperi  Compositus.     Compound  Spirit  of  Juniper. 
Oil  of  juniper,  8  ;  oil  of  caraway,  1  ;  oil  of  fennel,  1  ;  alcohol,  1400 ; 
water  to  make  1000. 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  I  ii.-iv.  (60.-120.) ;  D.,   3  i.-iv.  (4.-15.). 

ACTIONS  AND   USES. 

Oil  of  juniper  resembles  oil  of  turpentine  physiologically 
as  well  as  chemically.  It  is  a  stomachic  and  carminative, 
particularly  when  combined  with  alcohol  and  other  aromatic 
oils  (Sp'r.  Juniper.  Co.),  but  is  used  in  medicine  chiefly  for  its 
stimulant  aud  diuretic  action  upon  the  kidneys  and  genito- 
urinary tract  during  its  elimination.  Oil  of  juniper  is  cap- 
able of  irritating  the  kidneys  in  large  doses,  and  causing 
congestion,  strangury,  and  even  suppression  of  urine.  It  is 
less  likely,  however,  to  disturb  digestion  than  oil  of  turpen- 
tine, and  does  not  so  readily  occasion  hsematuria  and  albu- 
minuria. Oil  of  juniper  is  indicated  in  chronic  nephritis, 
pyelitis  and  cystitis  ;  also  in  dropsy  of  cardiac,  renal,  or  hep- 
atic origin.  It  is  efficient  in  assisting  absorption  of  effusions 
into  serous  cavities,  through  its  diuretic  properties.  The 
compound  spirit  of  juniper  approximates  gin  in  composition, 
although  it  is  not  the  official  name  for  that  liquor.  This 
preparation  is  useful  in  the  convalescent  period  of  acute 
bronchitis  and  influenza,  stimulating  the  b:onchial  mucous 
membrane  by  virtue  of  the  volatile  oil,  and  acting  as  a  circu- 
latory stimulant   and  diuretic.     The   oil   of  juniper   is  an 


SAVINE  519 

efficient  renal  stimulant  in  passive  congestion  of  the  kidneys, 
and  following  the  active  stage  of  acute  nephritis. 

Juniper    berries    are    sometimes   given   to   the  larger 
animals  on  their  food  (  5  i--ii.)>  ^^  ^^^  exhibited  in  infusion. 


Class  5.— Used  Mainly  for  its  Emmenagogue  Action 
on  the  Female  Generative  Organs. 

Sabina.     Savine. 

Synonym. — Sabinse  cacumina,  B.P.;  savin  tops,  E. ; 
sabine,  Fr. ;  sadebaumspitzen,  sevenkraut,  G. ;  summitates 
(herba)  sabinse,  P.G. 

The  flowering  tops  of  Juniperus  Sabina  Linne  (nat.  ord. 
Coni  ferae). 

Habitat — Canada,  Northern  United  States,  Europe  and 
Siberia. 

Description. — Short,  thin,  sub-quadrangular  branchlets*; 
leaves  rather  dark  green,  in  four  rows,  opposite,  scale-like, 
ovate-lanceolate,  more  or  less  acute,  appressed,  imbricated 
on  the  back  with  a  shallow  groove  containing  an  oblong  or 
roundish  gland ;  odor  peculiar,  terebinthinate  ;  taste  nau- 
seous, resinous  and  bitter.  The  chief  constituent  is  the 
volatile  oil,  about  2  per  cent. 

Dose.  -H.,  I  i.-ii.  (30.-60.) ;  D.,  gr.v.-xv.  (.3-1.). 

PREPARATION. 

Extractum  Sabince  Fluidum.    Fluid  Extract  of  Savine.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol,  and  evaporation, 
so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 

Dose.—n.  &  C,  I  i  -ii.  (30.-60.)  ;  D.,  tt^v.-xv.  (.3-1.). 

Oleum  Sabine.     Oil  ot  Savine.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Essence  de  sabine,  Fr.;  sadebaumol,  G. 
A  volatile  oil  distilled  from  savine. 

Properties. — A  colorless,  yellowish  liquid,  having  a 
peculiar  terebinthinate  odor,  and  a  pungent,  bitterish  and 


520  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

camphoraceous  taste.  It  becomes  darker  and  thicker  by  age 
and  exposure  to  the  air.  Spec.  gr.  0.910-0.940.  Soluble  in 
an  equal  volume  of  alcohol  and  glacial  acetic  acid.  It  is 
composed  of  several  terpenes. 

I)ose.-B..  &  C,  3ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  D.,  ITLi-v.  (.06-.3). 

Administration. — The  oil  is  given  in  capsules  or  pills  to 
small  animals ;  in  emulsion  with  gum,  or  in  bland  oil,  to  the 
larger  animals. 

Action  External. — The  oil  is  a  powerful  irritant  to  the 
skin,  producing  redness,  vesication  and  even  pustula- 
tion. 

Action  Internal. — The  oil  resembles  oil  of  turpentine,  but 
is  more  irritating.  Full  doses  cause  gastric  stimulation, 
reflex  circulatory  excitement,  and  frequent  micturition. 
Toxic  quantities  occasion  gastro-enteritis  with  vomiting  (in 
dogs),  purging,  colic,  painful  micturition,  and  the  passage  of 
bloody,  albuminous  urine.  There  are  also  unconsciousness, 
stertor,  rapid  breathing  and  pulse,  convulsions  and  collapse. 
Lesions  of  gastro-enteritis  are  observable  after  death,  except 
in  rare  cases,  when  only  congestion  of  the  brain  and  Inngs 
occur.  The  oil  is  eliminated  by  the  skin  and  bronchial 
mucous  membrane,  but  chiefly  by  the  kidneys,  with  con- 
sequent stimulation  of  the  genito-urinary  organs.  The  uterus 
and  ovaries  are  irritated  and  congestion  of  them  follows  with 
acceleration  of  ovulation.  The  oil  also  excites  uterine  con- 
tractions in  the  pregnant  state.  The  drug  is  therefore  an 
emmenagogue  and  ecbolic. 

Uses. — The  Unguentum  (B.P.)  may  be  applied  exter- 
nally as  a  counter-irritant.  The  oil  is  occasionally  employed 
as  an  anthelmintic,  but  is  inferior  to  other  agents  for  this 
purpose.  It  may  be  given  in  atonic  ammenorrhoea,  or  in 
metrorrhagia  due  to  uterine  relaxation,  with  benefit,  but  it 
should  be  used  cautiously.  The  oil  is  not  to  be  used 
as  an  abortifacient,  since  sufficient  doses  to  cause  abor- 
tion will  usually  endanger  the  life  of  the  mother  or  foetus, 
or  both. 


CAMPHOR  521 

So-called  Solid  Volatile  Oils  or  Stearoptens. 

Camphora.     Camphor.     C,oH,eO.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Gum  camphor,  laurel  camphor,  E.;  camphre, 
Fr.;  kampfer,  G. 

A  stearopten  (having  the  nature  of  a  ketone)  obtained 
from  Cinnamomum  Camphora  (Linne)  Nees  et  Ebermaier 
{nat.  ord.  Laurinese),  and  purified  by  sublimation. 

Habitat.  —  China,  Japan,  Cochin  China  and  Sunda 
Islands. 

Properties. — White,  translucent  masses,  of  a  tough  con- 
sistence and  a  crystalline  structure,  readily  pulverizable  in 
the  presence  of  a  little  alcohol,  ether,  or  chloroform  ;  having 
a  penetrating,  characteristic  odor,  and  a  pungently  aromatic 
ta^te.  Spec.  gr.  0.995.  Very  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  but 
readily  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  carbon  disul- 
phide,  benzin,  and  in  fixed  and  volatile  oils,  and  milk. 
When  camphor  is  triturated,  in  about  molecular  proportions, 
with  menthol,  thymol,  phenol,  or  chloral  hydrate,  liquefac- 
tion ensues.  On  exposure  to  the  air  it  evaporates,  and  when 
moderately  heated,  it  sublimes  without  leaving  a  residue. 

Composition. — "A  stearopten  is  a  solid  crystalline  sub- 
stance separated  from  any  volatile  oil  on  long  standing  or  at 
low  temperature."  Camphor  is  a  stearopten  and  is  chemi- 
cally an  oxidation  product  of  a  terpene, — the  principal  con- 
stituent of  all  volatile  oils.  A  terpene  is  a  hydrocarbon 
containing  10  atoms  of  carbon,  and  the  terpene  (CioHig)  from 
which  camphor  is  derived  is  isomeric  with  that  of  oil  of 
turpentine  and  many  other  volatile  oils. 

Dose.—R..  3  i.-iii.  (4.-12.) ;  C,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw., 
gr.xv.-  3  i.  (1.-4) ;  D.,  gr.iii.-xx.  (.18-1.3). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Aqua  CamphorcB.    Camphor  Water.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Triturate  camphor,  8,  with  alcohol,  5,  and  precipitated  calcium 
phosphate,  5  ;  then  with  water  to  make  1000.    Filter.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Dose. — Ad.  lib. 


522  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Spiritus  Camphorce,    Spirit  of  Camphor.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Dissolve  camphor,  100,  in  alcohol,  800  ;  filter,  and  add  alcohol  to 
make  1000.     (U.  S.) 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  |i.-ii.  (30.-60.) ;  D.,  3ss.-i.  (2.-4.). 

Linimentum  Camphorm.    Camphor  Liniment.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Camphorated  oil. 

Camphor,  200  ;  cottonseed  oil,  800.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Ceratum  Camphorce.    Camphor  Cerate.    (U.  S.  P.) 
Camphor  liniment,  100  ;  white  wax,  300 ;  lard,  600. 

Camphora  Monohromata,    Monobromated  Camphor.    doHisBrO, 

(U.  S.  P.) 

Derivation. — Made  by  heating  camphor  and  bromine  together  at  a 
temperature  of  172°F.  QLTC.)  and  solution  in  benzin.  C10H16  0  +  2 
Br  =  C10H16  Br  O  +  H  Br.     Recrystallized  from  hot  alcohol. 

Pi'operties. — Colorless,  prismatic  needles  or  scales,  having  a  mild, 
camphoraceous  odor  and  taste;  permanent  in  the  air,  unaffected  by 
light,  and  neutral  to  litmus  paper.  Almost  insoluble  in  water;  freely 
soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and  chloroform,  hot  benzin  and  fixed  and 
volatile  oils;  slightly  soluble  in  glycerin. 
Dose.— D.,  gr.ii.-x.  (.12-.6). 

Action  External. — Camphor  resembles  the  volatile  oils 
chemically  and  physiologically.  It  is  a  slight  antiseptic 
externally,  and  parasiticide.  The  vapor  of  camphor  killa 
moths,  fleas,  bugs,  etc.  Camphor  is  a  mild  irritant,  produc- 
ing a  rubefacient  action  followed  by  partial  anaesthesia.  It 
is  eliminated  in  part  by  the  skin  and  occasions  some  diar- 
phoresis. 

Action  Internal. — Alimentary  Canal. — Camphor  stimu- 
lates the  stomach,  increasing  the  secretion,  motion  and 
vascularity  of  the  organ.  In  the  bowels  camphor  is  supposed 
to  overcome  pain,  spasm,  and  check  secretion  in  diarrhoea,, 
but  has  little  effect  in  normal  conditions  and  in  therapeutic 
doses. 

Circulation. — The  heart  is  stimulated  by  camphor,  and 
the  pulse  is  increased  in  force  and  frequency  by  medicinal 
doses.     The  drug  acts  in  part  directly  and  in  part  reflexly 


CAMPHOR  523 

from  irritation  of  the  stomach.  Poisonous  quantities  of 
camphor  depress  the  heart  and  the  pulse  becomes  feeble  and 
rapid.     Leucocytosis  is  favored  by  camphor. 

Respiration. — Camphor,  like  volatile  oils,  stimulates  the 
bronchial  mucous  membranes  in  its  elimination  by  the  lungs, 
and  increases  the  blood  supply  and  secretion  of  these  parts. 
The  characteristic  odor  is  imparted  to  the  breath  after  the 
ingestion  of  camphor.  The  drug  is  believed  to  relieve  spasm 
and  cough  in  bronchitis. 

Nervotis  Sysfem. — Camphor  is  often  classed  as  an  anti- 
spasmodic. It  stimulates  the  nerve  centres  in  the  brain, 
medulla,  and  spinal  cord,  and  thus  overcomes  spasm  due  to 
nervous  weakness  and  incoordination.  Poisonous  doses 
depress  and  paralyze  the  higher  nervous  centres. 

-Kidneys  and  Sexual  Organs. — Camphor  is  broken  up  in 
the  body  and  eliminated  in  the  breath  and  sweat,  but  mainly 
in  the  urine,  as  campho-glycuric  acid.  The  drug  influences 
the  sexual  organs,  in  some  cases,  but  in  most  instances  does 
not  affect  them.  Full  medicin-al  doses  sometimes  stimulate 
the  sexual  functions  (aphrodisiac  action).  Very  large  doses 
are  said  to  depress  sexual  desire  (auaphrodisiac  action),  but 
these  quantities  may  irritate  the  genito-urinary  tract  and 
produce  erotic  excitement. 

Temperature. — Camphor  is  a  slight  antipyretic. 

Toxicology. — Two  to  four  ounces  of  camphor  given  to 
horses  or  cattle  induce  convulsions,  with  rapid  pulse  and 
breathing,  but  usually  recovery  ensues.  Two  to  four 
drachms  cause,  in  dogs,  vomiting,  unsteady  movements, 
asphyxia,  coma  and  death. 

Administration. — Camphor  is  exhibited  internally  in  the 
form  of  the  spirit,  in  pill  or  ball;  and  in  solution  in  oil  or 
milk. 

Uses  External. — Camphor  is  applied  in  powder  as  a 
stimulant  and  antiseptic  on  indolent  sores;  mixed  with 
chalk  or  zinc  oxide,  as  a  dusting  powder,  in  chafing  or 
erythema,  for  its  anaesthetic  jn-operties.  It  is  employed  in 
liniments  (Lin.  Saponis,  Lin.  Camphorae),  in  strains,  bruises, 


524  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

rheumatism  and  myalgia,  as  a  rubefacient  and  local  ano- 
dyue. 

Uses  Internal, — Camphor  is  a  valuable  nerve  and  cir- 
culatory stimulant  in  collapse,  heart  failure,  and  poisoning 
by  alcohol,  opium,  belladonna,  etc.  The  Germans  praise  it 
highly  for  this  purpose,  but  it  is  not  so  frequently  employed 
by  English-speaking  practitioners.  It  should  be  given  sub- 
cutaneously  in  solution  in  ether  (1-5  or  10),  or  in  olive  oil 
(1-5  or  10),  in  doses  of  2  to  3  grains  for  dogs ;  15  to  30  grains 
for  horses,  hourly. 

9 

Camphorse • gr.  xv. 

^theris 3  ss. 

01.  01iv8B 3ii. 

M. 

S.    Inject  whole,  for  a  horse  ;  15  to  30  drops  for  a  dog. 

Camphor  is  of  benefit  in  exhausting  acute  diseases 
(influenza  and  canine  distemper),  for  the  same  reason  and 
because  it  possesses  diarphoretic  and  antipyretic  properties. 
It  may  be  combined  with  alcohol,  spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  and 
ammonia  compounds,  in  these  affections. 

Respiratory  disorders  are  improved  by  camphor, 
since  it  is  an  expectorant,  diarphoretic,  stimulant  and 
antiseptic.  It  is  prescribed  in  spasmodic  cough,  bronchitis 
and  pharyngitis.  For  the  latter,  in  electuary  with  bella- 
donna. 

Camphor  is  a  valuable  drug  in  diarrhoea,  particularly  in 
the  serous  variety  and  in  that  form  following  exposure  to 
cold.  It  is  not  useful  in  inflammatory  conditions,  but  checks 
secretion  and  pain.  Camphor  is  prescribed  alone  in 
diarrhoea,  or  with  brandy  and  laudanum. 

Camphor  is  sometimes  given  as  an  antispasmodic  in 
hysteria  and  "thumps"  (spasm  of  diaphragm)  of  horses; 
and  in  nervous  palpitation  of  the  heart,  and  chorea  (mono- 
bromated camphor)  of  dogs. 

Spirit  of  camphor  and  nitrous  ether  are  efficient  in 
relieving  irritation  of  the  genito-urinary  tract. 


I 


THYMOL  625 

Thymol.    Thymol.    C,oH,,0.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

A  phenol  (or  stearopten,  B.P.)  occurring  in  the  volatile 
oils  of  Thymus  Vulgaris  Linne,  Monarda  punctata  Linne  (nat. 
ord.  Labiatse),  and  Carum  Ajowan  (Roxburgh)  Bentham  et 
Hooker  (nat.  ord.  Umbelliferae). 

Habitat — Thymus  vulgaris,  Southern  Europe,  cultivated. 
Monarda  punctata,  United  States,  west  to  Colorado  and 
Texas.     Carum  Ajowan,  India,  Egypt  and  Persia. 

Derivation. — Thymol  is  made  from  the  terpenes  of  the 
three  volatile  oils  mentioned  above,  by  fractional  distillation, 
by  saponifying  the  result  with  caustic  soda  to  remove  more 
terpenes,  and  by  cooling.  The  resulting  soap,  or  soda-thymol 
compound,  is  decomposed  with  hydrochloric  acid,  and 
thymol  is  crystallized  from  an  alcoholic  solution. 

Properties. — Large,  colorless,  translucent  crystals  of  the 
hexagonal  system,  having  an  aromatic,  thyme-like  odor,  and 
a  pungent,  aromatic  taste,  with  a  very  slight  caustic  effect 
upon  the  lips.  Its  specific  gravity,  as  a  solid,  is  1.069,  but 
when  li«]uefied  by  fusion  it  is  lighter  than  water.  It  melts  at 
50°  to  51°  C.  (122°  to  123.8°  R),  remaining  liquid  at  con- 
siderably lower  temperatures.  When  triturated  with  about 
equal  quantities  of  camphor,  menthol,  or  chloral,  it  liquefies. 

Soluble  in  about  1200  parts  of  water,  and  in  less  than 
its  own  weight  of  alcohol,  ether  or  chloroform ;  also  readily 
soluble  in  carbon  disulphide,  glacial  acetic  acid,  and  in  fixed 
or  volatile  oils. 

Dose.—R.,  3  ss.-ii,  (2.-8.) ;  D.,  gr.i.-xv.  (.06-1.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Thymol  resembles  carbolic  acid  chemi- 
cally and  physiologically.  It  is  less  poisonous  and  irritant, 
more  costly,  and  possesses  greater  antiseptic  powers.  It  is 
much  less  valuable,  however,  medicinally,  on  account  of  its 
expense  and  odor,  which  strongly  attracts  flies. 

Poisoning  is  not  produced  readily,  as  absorption  from 
the  digestive  tract  is  slow ;  but  after  considerable  doses  by 
the  mouth,  or  when  injected  into  the  blood,  toxic  symptoms 
occur.     One  drachm  given  intravenously  to  a  dog  caused 


626  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

prostration,  coma  and  respiratory  failure.  Recovery  ensued 
after  the  use  of  artificial  respiration.  Often  no  lesions  are 
discoverable  after  death.  At  other  times  there  is  hyperaemia 
of  the  lungs  and  kidneys  caused  by  elimination  of  the  drug. 
The  urine  is  colored  greenish  or  yellowish-brown  by  trans- 
mitted light. 

Thymol  is  used  externally  for  general  antiseptic  pur- 
poses, for  application  to  ulcers,  and  as  an  injection  in  cystitis 
in  aqueous  saturated  solution.  It  is  employed  in  ointment 
with  vaseline  (1-15)  to  destroy  ringworm  and  to  relieve 
itching  in  pruritus,  eczema,  lichen,  psoriasis,  etc.  It  may  be 
applied  as  follows  for  the  same  purposes  : 

Thymol gr.^rv. 

Alcohol 3  ii.  88. 

Glycerin 3  v. 

Aq.  ad Oi. 

M. 

An  efficient  antiseptic  mouth  wash  consists  of  borax,  gr. 
40 ;  thymol,  gr.  20  ;  water,  3  iv.  It  is  indicated  in  stomatitis. 
Thymol  is  of  little  worth  for  intern  d  use.  It  is  recommended 
as  an  intestinal  antiseptic ;  as  a  remedy  for  tape  worm,  and 
as  a  urinary  antiseptic  in  cystitis.  It  is  given  in  diluted 
alcoholic  solutions ;  better  in  oil  or  capsules. 


SECTION  X.— VEGETABLE  BITTERS. 

Gentiana.     Gentian.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Gentianae  radix,  B.P.  ;  radix  gentianae  rubrae 
(vel  lutae  vel  majoris),  gentian  root,  E.  ;  radix  gentianae, 
P.G.;  racine  de  gentiane  (de  gentiane  jaune),  Fr.;  enzianwur- 
zel,  bitterwurzel,  rother  (gelber)  enzian,  G. 

The  root  of  Gentiana  lutea  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Gentianeae). 

Habitat. — The  yellow  gentian  is  indigenous  in  the  Alps 
and  mountains  of  southern  and  central  Europe. 


GENTIAN  627 

Description. — In  nearly  cylindrical  pieces  or  longitudinal 
slices,  about  25  Mm.  thick  ;  the  upper  portion  closely  annu- 
late ;  the  lower  portion  longitudinally  wrinkled  ;  externally 
deep  yellowish-brown  ;  internally  lighter  ;  somewhat  flexible 
and  tough  when  damp;  rather  brittle  when  dry;  fracture 
uneven  ;  the  bark  rather  thick,  separated  from  the  somewhat 
spongy  medituUium  by  a  black  cambium  line ;  odor  peculiar, 
faint,  more  prominent  when  moistened;  taste  sweetish  and 
persistently  bitter. 

Constituents.— The  chief  one  is  gentiopicrin,  a  bitter 
crystalline  glucoside,  soluble  in  alcohol  and  water.  There  is 
also  gentisic  acid  (Ci.HioOg),  combined  with  gentiopicrin, 
sugar,  gum,  and  a  trace  of  volatile  oil.  Contains  no 
tannin. 

Incompatibles. — Iron  in  solution  forms  a  black  compound 
with  the  coloring  matter  in  gentian.  Silver  nitrate  and  lead 
salts  are  incompatible  with  gentian. 

Dose.—B:.,  5  ss.-i.  (15.-30.) ;  C,  §  i.-ii.  (30.-60.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw., 
3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.) ;  D.,  gr.v.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Oentiance.     Extract  of  Gentian.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  water,  and  evaporation 
to  a  pilular  consistence. 

Dose.— About  one-third  that  of  gentian. 

Extractum  Gentiance  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Gentian.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  diluted  alcohol,  and 
evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 
Dose. — Same  as  gentian. 

Tinctura  Gentiance  Composita.     Compound  Tincture  of  Gentian. 
(U.  S.  &B.  P.) 

Gentian,  100  ;  bitter  orange  peel,  40  ;  cardamon,    10  ;  made  by 
maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol  and  water,  to  1000.     (U.  S,  P.) 
Dose.— H.  &  C,  §i.-iv.  (30.-120.);  D.,  3  i.-iv.  (4.-15.). 

Administration.— GentisLn  is  usually  given  to  horses, 
cattle  and  sheep  in  powder,  or  to  the  former  in  the  form  of 
the   compound  tincture.     The   extract  is  suitable  for  dogs 


528  VEGETABLE  DRTjGS 

when  exhibited  in  pills.  Gentian  is  often  employed  as  an 
excipient  in  the  preparation  of  balls. 

Action. — The  simple  bitters,  as  gentian,  act  as  stomachics 
and  bitter  tonics.  They  are  stomachics  in  promoting  gastric 
digestion  by  stimulation  of  the  gustatory  nerves,  thus  im- 
proving the  appetite  and  reflexly  causing  dilatation  of  the 
blood  vessels  in  the  stojnach  and  increasing  salivary  and 
gastric  secretions.  Furthermore,  the  bitters  excite  gastric 
and  intestinal  peristalsis  to  a  slight  extent.  The  bitters  only 
act  as  tonics  by  their  local  effect  in  facilitating  the  digestion 
and  assimilation,  and  by  increasing  the  appetite.  Externally 
the  bitters  are  mildly  antiseptic ;  while  internally  they  are 
inimical  to  intestinal  parasites. 

Uses.^Genimn  is  serviceable  in  simple  loss  of  appetite. 
It  is  especially  indicated  in  feeble  gastric  digestion  caused 
by  acute  disease,  overwork,  insufficient  and  poor  food,  and  in 
that  form  associated  with  general  debility  and  anaemia.  In 
the  latter  state,  characterized  by  a  pasty  tongue,  anorexia, 
rough  coat  and  pallid  mucous  membranes,  which  may  often 
be  co-existent  with  the  presence  of  intestinal  worms,  powdered 
gentian  is  most  efficient  when  given  to  horses  on  the  food 
three  times  daily  with  dried  ferrous  sulphate. 

Again,  loss  of  appetite,  general  weakness,  and  feeble 
digestion  occurring  in  horses  during  convalescence  from 
acute  diseases,  as  influenza  and  pneumonia,  is  favorably  met 
by  a  combination  of  compound  tincture  of  gentian  and 
whisky  (1  ounce  each),  or  by  diluted  hydrochloric  acid 
and  the  compound  tincture.  The  drug  is  useful  in  atonic 
indigestion,  or  mild  chronic  gastric  or  intestinal  catarrh  of 
young  animals,  when  conjoined  with  sodium  bicarbonate, 
which  acts  as  a  sedative  and  solvent  of  mucus. 

The  simple  bitters,  including  gentian,  are  contra-indi- 
cated in  any  acute  inflammation  of  the  digestive  tract,  since 
they  are  mild  irritants.  Gentian  is  a  valuable  bitter  for 
cattle  and  sheep,  but  quinine  is  more  commonly  given  to 
dogs. 


QUASSIA.  529 

Quassia.     Quassia. 

Synonym. — Quassise  lignum,  B.P. ;  quassia  wood,  bitter 
wood,  bitter  ash,  E.  ;  quassie,  bois  amer,  Fr. ;  quaissien- 
holz,  G. 

The  wood  of  Picroena  Excelsa  (Swartz)  Lindley  (nat. 
ord.  Simarubese). 

Habitat— J amsiica.  and  West  Indies. 

Description. — In  billets  of  various  sizes,  dense,  tough,  of 
medium  hardness,  porous,  with  a  minute  pith  and  narrow 
medullary  ]  ays  ;  inodorous  and  intensely  bitter.  In  the  shops 
it  is  usually  met  with  in  the  form  of  chips  or  raspings  of  a 
yellowish-white  color. 

Constituents. — Chiefly,  quassiin  (C10H12O5),  a  bitter,  neutral 
principle  occurring  in  crystalline  rectangular  plp,tes.  There 
is  also  a  volatile  oil,  but  no  tannin. 

i>ose.— Quassiin,  D.,  gr.f  |  (.008-.02). 

PREPARATIONS. 

.  Extractum  QuassicB,     Extract  of  Quassia.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  j)ercolation  with  water,  boiling  and  evaporation  to  pilular 
consistence. 

Dose.— H.,   3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.) ;  D.,  gr.ss.-iii.  (.03-.18). 

Extractum  Quassice  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Quassia.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol  and  water,  and 
evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  quassia. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  §i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  «fe  Sw.,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  D., 
Tiixv.-3i.  (1.4.). 

Tinctura  Quassice.     Tincture  of  Quassia.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P. ) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  quassia,  100  ;  with  alcohol 
and  water  to  make  1000.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Dose. — Twice  that  of  fluid  extract 

Administration. — Quassia  may  be  given  to  horses  in  the 
official  preparations, — preferably  the  fluid  extract, — or  in 
infusion  (1-80,  in  cold  water  for  half  an  hour,  B.P.).  The 
dose  of  the  infusion  is  §  iv.  for  horses;  3  ii.-iv.  for  dogs. 

Actions. — Quassia  is  the  most  active  and  bitter  stomachic 
we  possess.    Large  doses  irritate  the  digestive  tract.    The 


530  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

drug  is  poisoDous  to  the  lower  forms  of  animal  life.  One 
grain  will  kill  a  frog  with  the  production  of  convulsions  and 
respiratory  and  heart  failure.  A  sweetened  infusion  is  often 
employed  to  destroy  flies.  Considerable  doses  of  quassia 
increase  the  secretion  of  bile  and  urine,  and  stimulate  peris- 
taltic action  and  contraction  of  the  urinary  bladder.  It  is  an 
antiseptic  and  prevents  fermentation  in  the  digestive  canal. 
Quassia  acts  generally  in  the  same  manner  as  gentian,  by 
sharpening  tho  appetite,  and  increasing  salivary  and  gastric 
secretions,  together  with  vascularity  and  peristalsis  of  the 
stomach.     The  volatile  oil  assists  the  stomachic  action. 

Uses. — Quassia,  like  gentian,  is  very  serviceable  in  pro- 
moting appetite  and  digestion  in  atonic  dyspepsia.  It  has 
this  advantage,  however,  that  it  may  be  combined  with 
liquid  preparations  of  iron  without  incompatibility.  Quassia 
is  the  most  efficient  vermicide  in  our  possession  for  the 
destruction  of  Oxyuris  curvula,  horse ;  and  O.  vermicularis, 
dog,  in  the  lower  bowel.  An  infusion  is  employed  for 
this  purpose,  made  by  soaking  quassia  chips  in  cold  water 
(3ii.-0i.)  for  half  an  hour.  The  rectum  should  be  first 
thoroughly  washed  out  with  soap  and  water,  and  one-half 
pint  of  this  infusion  is  given  in  enema  to  dogs  ;  two  quarts 
to  horses. 


Cascarilla.     Cascarilla.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym, — Cascarillse  cortex,  B.P.;  cascarille,  Fr.;  cas- 
carilla, kascarillrinde,  G. 

The  bark  of  Croton  Eluteria  Bennett  (nat.  ord.  Euphor- 
biaceae) . 

Habitat. — Bahama  Islands. 

Description. — In  quills  or  curved  pieces  about  2  Mm. 
thick,  having  a  grayish,  somewhat  fissured,  easily  detached, 
corky  layer,  more  or  less  coated  with  a  white  lichen,  the 
uncoated  surface  being  dull  brown,  and  the  inner  surface 
smooth.  It  breaks  with  a  short  fracture,  having  a  resinous 
and- radially  striate  appearance.    When  burned,  it  emits  a 


CALUMBA  53i 

strong,  aromatic,  somewhat  musk-like  odor;  its  taste  is 
warm  and  very  bitter. 

Gonstit'uenis. — 1,  cascarillin,  a  neutral,  bitter,  crystalline 
body;  2,  two  resins,  15  per  cent.;  3,  a  volatile  oil,  1.5  per 
cent.;  4,  tannic  acid  ;  5,  gum. 

Incompatihles. — Metallic  salts,  mineral  acids,  and  lime 
water. 

Dose.—R  &C.,l  ss.-i.  (15.-30.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  i--ii.  (4.-8.); 
D.,  gr.x.-xxx.  (.6-2.), 

Administration. — Cascarilla  may  be  given  in  powder  to 
the  larger  animals  on  their  food,  or  in  infusion  (1-10,  B.P.), 
or  tincture  (1-8,  B.P.),  ^  iv.-vi.  of  either  for  horses  ;  3  ss.-i.  of 
the  tincture  for  dogs.     The  infusion  does  not  keep. 

Action  and  Uses. — Cascarilla  is  called  an  aromatic  bitter, 
since  it  combines  the  action  of  a  volatile  oil  in  stimulating 
gastro-intestinal  secretion,  motion,  and  vascularity,  with  that 
of  the  bitters  in  exciting  the  appetite,  gastric  and  salivary 
secretions,  together  with  vascularity  and  peristalsis  of  the 
stomach.  The  drug  is  suitable  for  the  same  cases  as  gen- 
tian, but  is  particularly  indicated  in  the  treatment  of  atonic 
gastro-intestinal  indigestion  with  flatulence  (on  account  of 
its  volatile  oil).  Mineral  acids  precipitate  the  resins  in 
tinctures,  so  that  the  infusion  may  be  combined  with  the 
former. 

Calumba.     Calumba.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Calumbae  radix,  B.P.;  columbo,  E.;  columbo, 
Fr.;  kolumbowurzel,  G. 

The  root  of  Jateorhiza  palmata  (Lamarck)  Miers  (nat. 
ord.  Menispermacese). 

Habitat, — Mozambique,  East  Africa.  Cultivated  in  the 
East  Indies. 

Description. — In  nearly  circular  disks,  3  to  6  Cm.  in 
diameter,  externally  greenish-brown  and  wrinkled,  internally 
yellowish  or  grayish-yellow ;  depressed  in  the  centre,  with  a 
few  interrupted   circles  of  projecting  wood   bundles,  dis- 


532  '  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

tinctly  radiate  in  the  outer  portion;  fracture  short,  mealy  ; 
odor  slight;  taste  mucilaginous,  slightly  aromatic,  very 
bitter. 

Constituents.— 1,  calumbin  (C21H22O7),  a  neutral,  bitter, 
crystalline  substance ;  2,  an  alkaloid,  berberine  (CaoHj^NOj, 
found  in  berberis,  hydrastis,  etc. ;  3,  calumbic  acid  {G^^^fi^-y 
4,  starch,  33  per  cent. 

Dose.—R.&G.,  5  ss.-i.  (30.-60.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.); 
D.,  gr.v.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Eoctraetum  CalumhcB  Fluidum.    Fluid  Extract  of  Calumba. 
(U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol  and  water,  and 
evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug.    (U.  S.  P.) 
Dose. — Same  as  Calumba. 

Tinctura  Calumhce.    Tincture  of  Calumba.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  calumba,  100  ;  in  alcohol, 

and  water  to  make  1000.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.—R.  &  C,   lii.-iv.  (60.-120.);  D.,    3i.-iv.  (4.-15.).    Dose  of 

tincture  (B.  P.)  half  that  of  U.  S.  P.  tincture. 

Administration. — Calumba  is  given  in  powder  on  the 
food,  or  in  the  official  preparations  to  the  larger  animals. 
The  infusion  (1-16,  B.P.)  may  be  used  in  the  same  doses  as 
that  of  cascarilla.  The  tincture,  and  extract  (gr.ii.-x.,  B.P.) 
are  the  best  preparations  for  dogs. 

Actions  and  Uses. — Calumba  is  a  mild  but  pure  bitter. 
Berberine,  calumbin  and  calumbic  acid  are  all  bitter,  but 
none  of  them  possess  any  powerful  physiological  action, 
Calumba  is  indicated  in  the  same  cases  as  gentian,  but,  being 
free  from  tannin,  may  be  combined  with  iron  preparations 
without  producing  an  unsightly,  inky  mixture.  It  is  less 
irritating  than  other  bitters,  and  may  be  prescribed  in  more 
irritable  conditions  of  the  stomach.  Calumba  is  frequently 
used  during  convalescence  from  the  acute  diseases  and 
diarrhoea. 


TARAXACUM  5S"d 

Taraxacum.     Taraxacum.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Taraxici  radix,  B.P.;  dandelion,  E.;  pissenlit, 
dent  de  lion,  Fr.;  lowenzahn,  G. 

The  root  of  Taraxacum  officinale  Weber  (nat.  ord.  Com- 
positse),  gathered  in  autumn. 

Habitat. — Naturalized  in  the  United  States  and  growing 
commonly  in  waste  places.     Indigenous  in  Europe. 

Description. — Slightly  conical,  about  30  Cm.  long,  aud  1 
or  2  Cm.  thick  above,  crowned  with  several  short,  thickish 
heads,  somewhat  branched,  dark  brown,  longitudinally 
wrinkled,  when  dry  breaking  with  a  short  fracture,  showing 
a  yellowish,  porous  central  axis,  surrounded  by  a  thick, 
white  bark,  containing  numerous  milk  vessels  arranged 
in  concentric  circles  ;  inodorous ;  bitter.  It  should  be  free 
from  the  root  of  Cichorium  Intybus  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Com- 
positse),  which  closely  resembles  it,  but  is  usually  paler,  and 
has  the  milk-vessels  in  radiating  lines. 

Constiticents. — 1,  taraxacin,  a  bitter,  soluble,  crystalline 
substance  ;  2,  inulin ;  3,  taraxacerin  (CgHigO);  4,  resin,  causing 
the  milky  juice. 

/)ose.—H.,  §  i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  D., 
3  i.-ii.  (4-8.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extr actum  Taraxaci.    Extract  of  Taraxacum.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  bruising  and  expressing  the  juice  from  the  fresh  roots 

gathered  in  autumn.    The  juice  is  strained  and  evaporated  to  a  pilular 

consistence. 

I>ose.— H.  &  C,  3  i.-iv.  (4.-15.);  D.,  gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3.). 

Extractum  Taraxaci  Fluidum.    Fluid  Extract  of  Taraxacum. 
(U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  diluted  alcohol,  and 
evaporation  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  taraxacmn. 
Dose. — Same  as  taraxacum. 

Administration. — The  fresh  juice  squeezed  from  the  root 
(succus,  B.P.)  may  be  given  to  horses  ;  or  the  official  prepar- 
ations may  be  used. 


534  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Action  and  Uses. — Taraxacum  is  a  simple  stomachic  and 
bitter  aijd  may  be  employed  in  place  of  gentian  or  calumba. 
It  has  been  generally  taught  that  taraxacum  is  an  hepatic 
stimulant  and  increases  the  secretion  of  bile.  This  has  been 
proved  fallacious.  The  extract  is  often  used  as  an  excipient 
in  preparing  masses. 

Hydrastis.    Hydrastis.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Golden  seal,  yellow  root,  yellow  puccoon, 
orange  root,  Indian  dye,  Indian  tumeric,  E.;  racine  d'hydras- 
tis  de  Canada,  Fr.;  Canadische  gelbwurzel,  G. 

The  rhizome  and  roots  of  Hydrastis  canadensis  Linne 
(nat.  ord.  Ranunculacese). 

Habitat — North  America  in  woods,  west  to  Missouri  and 
Arkansas. 

Descripion. — Rhizome  about  4  Cm.  long  and  6  Mm. 
thick ;  oblique,  with  short  branches,  somewhat  annulate 
and  longitudinally  wrinkled ;  externally  brownish-gray ; 
fracture  short,  waxy,  bright  reddish-yellow,  with  a  thickish 
bark,  about  ten  narrow  wood-wedges,  broad,  medullary  rays 
and  large  pith.  Roots  thin,  brittle,  with  a  thick  yellow  bark 
and  subquadrangular,  woody  centre.  Odor  slight ;  taste 
bitter. 

Constituents.  —  1,  berberine  (CjoHj-NOJ,  an  alkaloid 
occurring  in  yellow  crystals  and  found  in  many  plants  of 
the  families  Berberacese,  Ranunculaceae,  andMenispermacese  ; 
2,  hydrastine  (CjiHaiNOg),  a  colorless,  crystalline  alkaloid, 
soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether  ;  3,  canadine  (CoiHgiNOJ,  occur- 
ring in  white,  acicular  crystals. 

Dose.—H.  &  C,  3  ii-- 1  i.  (8.-30.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.); 
D.,  gr.v.-3i.  (.3-4.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Hydrastis  Fluidum,    Fluid  Extract  of  Hydrastis. 

(U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol,  glycerin  and 
water,  and  evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  hydrastis. 


HYDRASTININE   HYDROCHLORATE  535 

.— H.  &  C,  3  ii.- 1  i.  (8.-30.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  D.,  nv.-  3  i. 
(.3-4.). 

Tinctura  Hydrastis.     Tincture  of  Hydrastis.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  Hydrastis,  200 ;  with  diluted 
alcohol,  to  1000. 

Dose.—K.,  §  i.-ii.  (30.-60.)  ;  D.,  3  ss.-ii.  (2.-8.). 

Olyceritum  Hydrastis.     Glycerite  of  Hydrastis.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  hydrastis.  1000  ;  add  water 
to  the  percolate  and  evaporate.     Add  water  to  the  residue,  set  aside  24 
hours  and  filter  ;  add  enough  water  to  the  filtrate  to  make  500  ;  then  add 
glycerin,  500. 

Dose. — Same  as  fluid  extract. 

Hydrastinin^  Hydraschloras.     Hjdiastinine  Hydro- 
chlorate.    C,,H,,NO,H  CI.     (U.  S.  P.) 

The  hydrochlorate  of  an  artificial  alkaloid  derived  from 
hydrastine  by  the  action  of  oxidizing  agents. 

Properties. — Light,  yellow,  amorphous  granules,  or  a 
pale  yellow  crystalline  powder ;  odorless,  and  having  a  bitter, 
saline  taste  ;  deliquescent  on  exposure  to  damp  air.  Soluble 
in  0.3  part  of  water,  and  in  3  parts  of  alcohol. 

i>ose.— H.,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.12);  D.,  gr.-jVi  (.005-.01). 

Hydrastin.     (Non-official). 

The  commercial  name  for  a  mixture  of  variable  com- 
position, consisting  chiefly  of  berberine,  together  with 
hydrastine,  and  a  resin.  A  greenish-yellow  powder,  having 
a  bitter  taste.     Wrongly  termed  hydrastine. 

Dose.—R.,  gr.xv.-xxx.  (1.-2.);  D.,  gr.iii.-v.  (.18-.3). 

Actions. — Hydrastis  and  its  alkaloids,  berberine  and 
hydrastine,  act  as  simple  bitters  and  stomachics,  in  small 
doses,  by  improving  the  appetite  and  stimulating  the  secre- 
tion, motion  and  vascularity  of  the  stomach.  Hydrastis 
causes  contraction  of  the  non- pregnant  uterus,  and  may 
induce  abortion  in  pregnant  animals.  It  also  increases  the 
flow  of  bile  and  urine.    The  drug  is  a  mild  anti-periodic,  but 


536  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

is  decidedly  inferior  to  quinine  in  this  respect.  Hydrastine 
iind  berbeiine  resemble  eacli  other  in  actions,  uses  and 
doses,  Berberine  sulphate  and  hydrastine  hydrochlorate 
are  to  be  found  in  the  market,  and  are  used  in  the  same  doses 
as  the  pure  alkaloids.  Poisonous  doses  of  hydrastine  and 
berberine  are  followed  by  convulsions  and  paralysis ;  the 
former  is  more  convulsant.  Hydrastine  is  said  primarily  to 
markedly  increase  vascular  tension.  It  is  uncertain  whether 
this  action  is  due  to  vascular  contraction  or  cardiac  stimu- 
lation. In  poisoning  by  either  alkaloid  there  is  great  cardiac 
and  vasomotor  depression. 

Uses. — Hydrastis,  berberine,  and  hydrastine  are  employed 
in  anorexia  and  atonic  indigestion.  The  fluid  extract  of 
bydrastis  and  hydrastine  (which  is,  however,  expensive) 
are  especially  efficient  for  horses  in  combination  with  other 
bitters  and  iron,  as  follows  : 

Extr.  Capsici  Fl 3  ii. 

Extr.  Hydrastis  Fl. 

Extr.  Nucis  Vomicae  Fl aa  |  iii. 

M.    (Furnish  3  ii.  bottle) 
Sig.  Small  bottleful  tid.  on  tongue. 
or: — 

Hydrastinae gr.xxx. 

Pulv.  Gentianse 

Pulv.  Nucis  Vomicae 

Ferri  Sulph.  Exsicc aa  §  ii. 

M.   et  div.  in  ch't,  no.  xii. 
Sig.  One  powder  on  food  tid. 

Hydrastis  is  exhibited  empirically  (probably  as  a  local 
stimulant  and  antiseptic)  in  atonic  and  inflammatory  condi- 
tions of  the  digestive  organs,  with  great  benefit,  as  in  chronic 
gastro-intestinal  catarrh  or  catarrhal  jaundice.  Hydrastis  is 
used  most  frequently  in  human  medicine  to  stop  uterine 
haemorrhage  of  all  descriptions,  and  is  often  conjoined  with 
the  fluid  extract  of  ergot  for  this  purpose.  Hydrastinine 
hydrochlorate   has  been   employed   with   great  success  as 


CALAMUS  537 

a  haemostatic  in  metrorrhagia.  Hydrastine  is  given  to 
horses  as  a  bitter  tonic  in  doses  of  gr.iii.-v.;  and  to 
dogs  in  quantities  of  gr.^-J.  Externally,  the  fluid  extract 
of  hydrastis  (1-8  to  1-2),  or  hydrastine  (gr.v.-  §  i),  in  aqueous 
sohition,  are  most  serviceable  as  local  stimulants  in  the 
treatment  of  the  subacute  stages  in  inflammatory  diseases  of 
mucous  membranes,  and  in  relaxed  or  atonic  conditions  of 
these  tissues.  The  solutions  are  applied  as  injections,  or 
lotions,  in  leucorrhoea,  endometritis,  balanitis,  otorrhoea, 
stomatitis,  etc.,  and  upon  indolent  ulcers. 


Calamus.     Calamus.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Sweet  flag,  radix  acori,  E.;  rhizoma  calami, 
P.G.;  acore  vrai,  acore  odorant,  Fr.;  kalmuswurzel,  G. 

The  rhizome  of  Acorus  Calamus  Linne  (nat.  ord. 
Aroidese.) 

Description.'— Jjo.  sections  of  various  lengths,  unpeeled, 
about  2  Cm.  broad,  subcylindrical,  longitudinally  wrinkled ; 
on  the  upper  surface  marked  with  leaf  scars  forming  triangles, 
and  on  the  lower  surface  with  the  circular  scars  of  the  root- 
lets in  wavy  lines ;  externally  reddish-brown,  somewhat 
annulate  from  remnants  of  leaf-sheaths ;  internally  whitish, 
of  a  spongy  texture,  breaking  with  a  short,  corky  fracture, 
showing  numerous  oil  cells  and  scattered  wood-bundles  ;  the 
latter  crowded  within  th6  subcircular  endoderm.  It  has  an 
aromatic  odor,  and  a  strongly  bitter  taste. 

Gonstitiients. — 1,  acorin  (CgeHgoOg),  a  liquid,  yellow  gluco- 
side  having  a  bitter  taste  ;  2,  a  volatile  oil,  1-2  per  cent.;  3, 
calamine ;  4,  choline. 

I)ose.—K.  &  C,  5  i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  i.-iii.  (4-12.); 
D.,  gr.xv.-3i.  (1.-4.). 

PREPARATION. 

Extractum  Calami  Fluidum.    Fluid  Extract  of  Calamus.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration,  percolation  and  evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  = 
1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 


538  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  3i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  i.-iii.  (4.  12.);  D., 
■nixv.-3  i.  (1.-4.). 

The  powdered  root  may  be  given  on  the  food  to  the  larger  animals; 
the  fluid  extract,  or  an  infusion  (1-16),  may  be  exhibited  to  any  patients. 

Action  and  Uses. — Calamus  i>i  a  mild  aromatic  bitter,  and 
is  therefore  useful  in  anorexia  and  indigestion  associated 
with  mild  forms  of  flatulence.  The  powdered  root  is  em- 
ployed as  an  excipient  in  powders,  balls  and  electuaries.  It 
is  innocuous,  and  the  dose  is  therefore  unimportant. 


SECTION   XL— VEGETABLE  CATHAETICS. 
Class  1. — Simple  Purgatives. 

Aloe  Barbadensis.     Barbadoes  Aloes.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Curacoa  aloes,  E.;  aloes  des  Barbades,  Fr.; 
Barbados-aloe,  G. 

The  inspissated  juice  of  the  leaves  of  Aloe  vera  (Linne) 
Webb  (nat.  ord.  Liliaceae). 

Habitat. — The  islaud  of  Barbadoes. 

Properties. — In  hard  masses,  orange-brown,  opaque, 
translucent  on  the  edges  ;  fracture  waxy  or  resinous,  some- 
what conchoidal ;  odor  saffron-like ;  taste  strongly  bitter. 
Almost  entirely  soluble  in  alcohol. 

Aloe  Socotrina.     Socotrine  Aloes.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Aloe  succotrina,  aloes  sucotrin,  s.  socotrin, 
Fr.;  socotora  s.  socotrinische  aloe,  G. 

The  inspissated  juice  of  the  leaves  of  Aloe  Perryi  Baker 
(nat.  ord.  Liliaceae). 

Habitat. — Eastern  Africa. 

Properties. — In  hard  masses,  occasionally  soft  in  the 
interior;  opaque,  yellowish-brown,  orange-brown,  or  dark 
ruby-red,  not  greenish,  translucent  on  the  edges;  fracture 
resinous,  somewhat   conchoidal.     When  breathed  upon,  it 


CAPE  ALOES  539 

emits  a  fragrant  saffron-like  odor ;  taste  peculiar,  strongly 
bitter.  Almost  entirely  soluble  in  alcohol  and  in  4  parts  of 
boiling  water.  The  aqueous  solution  becomes  turbid  on 
cooling  and  yields  a  deposit. 

The  color  of  socotrine  aloes  is  lighter,  and  it  is  less 
opaque  than  Barbadoes  aloes.  The  powdered  socotrine  aloes 
is  brighter  and  redder,  and  the  odor  less  disagreeable  than 
that  of  Barbadoes  aloes. 


Aloe  Capensis.     Cape  Aloes.     (Non-official.) 

Synonym. — Aloes  der  Cap,  Fr. 

Habitat — Africa. 

Properties. — Occurs  in  dark-brown  or  olive-green  resin- 
ous masses ;  fracture  conchoidal ;  odor  strong,  sour  and 
disagreeable.  Yields  a  gamoge-yellow  powder.  Solubility 
same  as  socotrine  aloes.  Product  of  several  varieties  of  aloes 
obtained  from  Cape  Town  and  Natal. 

Dose  of  Aloes.— R.,  5  ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  C,  Ji.-ii.  (30.-60.); 
Sh.,  5ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  Sw.,  3ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  D.,  gr.xx.-3i. 
(1.3-4). 

Constituents. — 1,  aloin ;  2,  a  resin  ;  3,  a  volatile  oil ;  4,  a 
trace  of  gallic  acid. 

Aloinum.     Aloin.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Aloine,  Fr. 

A  neutral  principle  obtained  from  several  varieties  of 
aloes,  chiefly  Barbadoes  aloes  (yielding  Barbaloin),  and 
Socotra  or  Zanzibar  aloes  (yielding  Socaloin),  differing  more 
or  less  in  chemical  composition  and  physical  properties 
according  to  the  source  from  which  it  is  derived. 

Derivation. — Obtained  by  pulverizing  and  macerating 
Barbadoes  aloes  in  cold  water,  and  evaporating  the  resulting 
solution  in  vacuo.  Aloin  crystallizes  out  and  is  dried 
between  folds  of  bibulous  paper.  It  is  purified  by  repeated 
solution  in  hot  water,  filtration,  recrystallization,  and  finally 


540  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

by  solution  in  hot  alcohol  and  crystallization.  Nataloin  is 
derived  from  Cape  aloes. 

Properties. — Minute,  acicular  crystals,  or  a  micro-crys- 
talline powder,  varying  in  color  from  yellow  to  yellowish- 
brown  ;  odorless,  or  possessing  a  slight  odor  of  aloes ;  of  a 
characteristic  bitter  taste,  and  permanent  in  the  air.  Bar- 
baloin  and  socaloin  are  soluble  in  about  60  parts  of  cold 
water.  Barbaloin  is  soluble  in  20  parts  of  alcohol.  Socaloin 
in  30  parts  of  absolute  alcohol. 

Dose.—R,  k  a,  3  ii.-iii.  (8.-12.);  D.,  gr.ii.-xx.  (.12-1.3),  in 
combination  with  other  purgatives. 

PREPARATIONS  OF  ALOES. 

The  oflacial  preparations  are  numerous,  but  are  not  applicable  to 
veterinary  practice. 

Tinctura  Alo^s  et  MyrrhcB.    Tincture  of  Aloes  and  Myrrh. 

(U.  S.  P.) 
Synonym. — *'  Elixis  pro,"  elixir  proprietas  Paracelsi,  E. 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  purified  aloes,  100  ;  myrrh, 
100;  and  liquorice  root,  100;  with  alcohol  and  water  to  make  1000. 

Action  External. — Aloes  is  a  slight  stimulant  to  raw  sur- 
faces. It  is  absorbed  from  the  denuded  skin  and  thus  may 
occasion  purging. 

Action  Internal. — Alimentary  Canal. — Aloes  is  first  of  all 
a  purgative.  In  addition  to  this  it  is  a  bitter,  and  therefore 
small  doses  excite  salivary  and  gastric  secretioD,  together 
with  the  movements  and  vascularity  of  the  stomach,  and 
appetite.  Experiments  on  dogs  show  that  large  doses  of 
aloes  increase  the  secretion  of  bile  by  stimulation  of  the 
liver.  Aloes  is  absorbed  from  the  digestive  tract  and  is 
eliminated  by  the  bowels,  kidneys  and  mammary  glands.  It 
may  be  excreted  in  sufficient  quantity  in  the  milk  to  create 
looseness  of  the  bowels  in  nursiug  animals. 

Aloes  stimulates  peristalsis  of  the  large  intestines,  but 
does  not  notably  increase  the  secretions  in  the  bowels. 
Moreover,  its  action  is  very  slow  (12-24  hours).  This  prob- 
ably happens  because  the  drug  does  not  act  till  it  reaches 


ALOIN  541 

the  large  intestines,  locally,  or  through  elimination.  Aloes 
is  preeminently  the  best  purgative  for  horses,  but  does  not 
operate  so  well  on  the  other  domestic  animals.  Epsom  salts, 
glauber  salts  or  linseed  oil  are  preferable  for  cattle  ;  linseed 
oil  or  carron  oil  for  foals  and  calves  ;  and  castor  oil  or 
calomel  for  dogs.  A  full  dose  of  aloes  often  creates  some 
general  disturbances  in  horses,  including  nausea,  slight  colic, 
diuresis,  elevation  of  temperature  (l°-2°  F.)  and  pulse,  v^ith 
purging  lasting  from  2  or  3  to  24  hours.  Aloes  also  possesses 
anthelmintic  properties  because  of  its  bitter  qualities  and 
purgative  action.  Socotrine  aloes  is  the  basis  of  the  official 
preparations,  but  Barbadoes  aloes  finds  most  favor  in  veter- 
inary medicine,  and  is  probably  the  stronger  of  the  two. 
Cape  aloes  is  a  little  inferior  to  the  other  varieties  and  is 
more  apt  to  produce  diuresis.  Aloes  and  aloin  lead  to 
catharsis,  whether  injected  under  the  skin,  into  the  blood,  or 
applied  on  raw  surfaces.  Administration  by  the  mouth  is 
more  effective.  Aloin  appears  to  contain  the  active  princi- 
ples of  aloes,  and  is  usually  as  operative,  but  some  manufac- 
tures are  ineffective. 

Kidneys  and  Sexual  Organs. — Aloes  causes  reflex,  or 
sympathetic  irritation  of  the  female  pelvic  organs  in  its 
operation  on  the  lower  bowel ;  is  an  emmenagogue,  and  may 
prove  abortifacient.     The  drug  sometimes  excites  diuresis. 

Administration. — Aloes  is  given  to  horses  in  semi-solu- 
tion after  being  rubbed  up  with  hot  (115°-120^  F.)  water,  or 
in  ball.  The  patient  should,  if  possible,  be  previously  pre- 
pared by  a  diet  of  bran  mashes  and  salt  only,  for  2  or  3 
feedings  before  exhibition  of  the  purge.  The  aloes  ball  in 
use  for  many  years  in  the  Harvard  Veterinary  Hospital  is 
made  by  melting  and  mixing  Barbadoes  aloes  (1  lb.)  with 
glycerin  and  molasses  (each  3  ii.),  and  powdered  ginger  root 
(5i-)»  on  a  water  bath.  When  the  mass  is  properly  mixed 
it  is  removed  from  the  fire  and  alcohol  ( 3  v.)  is  added.  The 
mass  is  poured  on  a  layer  of  flaxseed  meal  to  cool,  and  then 
is  weighed  into  portions  of  3  10 J  each.  These  are  rolled 
into  balls,  covered  with  tissue  paper,  and  preserved  in  tight 


542  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

tin  or  glass  vessels.  Horses  should  not  be  worked  after 
receiving  aloes  balls,  but  should  be  given  a  little  walking 
exercise  12  hours  after  the  administration  of  the  dose. 
Colic  and  superpurgation  may  follow  if  the  dose  is  repeated 
within  48  hours,  or  if  large  quantities  of  cold  water  are 
allowed  during  the  action  of  the  cathartic.  If  aloes  does  not 
operate  satisfactorily,  it  is  safer  to  give  linseed  oil  by  the 
mouth  and  rectal  injections,  than  to  administer  a  second 
dose  of  aloes. 

Uses  External. — The  tincture  of  aloes  and  myrrh  is 
sometimes  applied  as  a  stimulant  to  wounds,  and  powdered 
aloes  is  mixed  with  plaster  of  Paris  in  making  splints  for 
dogs,  to  prevent  these  animals  from  biting  and  tearing  them 
off. 

Uses  Internal, — Aloes  is  employed  in  the  treatment  of  the 
horse,  whenever  an  active  purge  is  desirable,  with  the  fol- 
lowing exceptions  :  It  must  not  be  used  in  acute  diseases  of 
the  respiratory  tract  lest  metastasis  occur,  and  the  inflam- 
mation attack  the  bowels.  Neither  in  acute  inflammation  of 
the  alimentary  canal  nor  of  the  kidneys  is  it  desirable ;  nor 
in  intestinal  obstruction  or  impaction  of  the  colon.  In  the 
first  two  named  conditions,  aloes  is  too  irritating  to  the 
organs  implicated ;  in  the  two  last,  the  drug  may  aggravate 
the  trouble  by  the  production  of  impotent  peristaltic  move- 
ments. Pregnancy  contra-indicates  the  use  of  aloes,  lest 
abortion  ensue.  The  therapeutic  scope  of  aloes  being  large, 
it  is  impossible  to  enumerate  all  the  diseases  in  which  it  is 
useful.  Perhaps  this  cathartic  is  more  commonly  service- 
able in  indigestion  and  spasmodic  or  flatulent  colic. 

In  acute  inflammatory  diseases  of  the  brain  and  cord 
aloes  is  often  combined  with  calomel  (  3  i)  in  ball  to  enha,nce 
the  effect.  The  administration  of  an  aloes  ball  is  followed 
by  that  of  small  doses  of  Epsom  salts  ( 3  iv.)  in  the  drinking 
water  in  the  treatment  of  hsenjoglobinsemia  of  horses,  or  in 
conditions  when  we  wish  to  assist  the  depleting  action  of 
aloes.  Turpentine  is  followed  by  aloes,  or  aloes  is  given 
prior  to   a   course  of   iron   sulphate   and   gentian,   for   the 


LINSEED   OIL  543 

destruction  of  round- worms  in  horses.  A  laxative  ball  may 
be  composed  of  aloes  (3ii.-iv.),  ginger  and  powdered  nux 
vomica  (each  3  ii«)>  Diixed  with  glycerin  or  molasses. 

It  is  often  taught  that  aloes  is  contraindicated  in  haemor- 
rhoids, but  this  teaching  does  not  obtain  unless  the  piles 
are  inflamed.  In  piles,  associated  with  an  atonic  condition, 
aloes  may  be  beneficial  by  improving  the  tone  of  the  bowels. 
Aloes  may  be  useful  in  jaundice  due  to  constipation,  but  in 
general  it  is  inferior  to  salines,  calomel  and  podophyllin  in 
the  treatment  of  this  disorder.  According  to  Brunton,  the 
presence  of  bile  in  the  intestines  is  essential  for  the  chola- 
gogue  action  of  aloes.  Therefore  the  absence  of  bile  in  the 
bowels  would  forbid  the  use  of  aloes  as  a  '^liolagogue. 
Laxative  doses  of  aloes  are  valuable  in  amenorrhoea, 
about  the  time  that  **  heat "  should  occur,  in  combination 
with  iron. 


Oleum  Linl     Linseed  Oil.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synomjrn. — Oil  of  flaxseed,  E.;  huile  de  lin,  Fr.;  leinol, 
leinsamenol,  G. 

A  fixed  oil  expressed  from  linseed  without  the  use  of 
heat. 

Properties. — A  yellowish  or  yellow,  oily  liquid,  having  a 
slight,  peculiar  odor  and  bland  taste.  When  exposed  to  the 
air  it  gradually  thickens  and  acquires  a  strong  odor  and  taste  ; 
and  if  spread  in  a  thin  layer  on  a  glass  plate  and  allowed  to 
stand  in  a  warm  place,  it  is  gradually  converted  into  a  hard, 
transparent,  resin-like  mass  (absence  of  non-drying  oils). 

Spec.  gr.  0.930  to  0.940  at  59°  F.  Soluble  in  about  10 
parts  of  absolute  alcohol,  and  in  all  proportions  in  ether, 
chloroform,  benzin,  carbon  disulphide,  or  oil  of  turpentine. 

Constituents. — 1,  linolein  ;  2,  myristin  ;  3,  palmitin  ;  4, 
albumin,  which  gives  the  oil  its  drying  qualities. 

Dose.—K.,  Oss.-i.  (250.-500.).  Mild  laxative,  on  bran 
mash.  C,  Oi.-ii.  (500.-1000.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  §  vi.-xii.  (180.-360.); 
D.  &  C,  5  ss.-ii.  (15.-60,). 


544  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

Action  and  Uses. — Linseed  oil  exerts  a  laxative,  or  mild 
purgative  effect  by  its  mechanical  action  in  lubricating  the 
bowels  and  their  contents.  It  is  suitable  for  horses  when  a 
derivative  or  depleting  action  is  not  desirable,  as  in  faecal 
impaction  or  overloaded  bowels  in  weak  animals,  and  in 
those  suffering  from  inflammatory  diseases  of  the  respiratory 
tract  or  digestive  organs  ;  diarrhoea,  dysentery,  and  in  preg- 
nancy. Aloes,  on  the  other  hand,  would  be  contraindicated 
in  these  conditions.  Carron  oil  (linseed  oil  and  lime  water, 
equal  parts),  is  particularly  appropriate  as  a  remedy  for 
"  heaves  "  in  horses  ( 3  ii.-iv,),  and  is  one  of  the  best  cathar- 
tics for  foals,  lambs  and  calves  (  3  ii.-iv.).  The  laxative  and 
antacid  properties  of  this  preparation  tend  to  combat  intes- 
tinal fermentation  which  is  so  common  in  young  animals  with 
digestive  disorders  and  diarrhoea.  The  same  qualities  of 
carron  oil  prevent  flatulence  and  interference  with  the 
already  impeded  breathing  in  "  heaves  "  of  horses. 

Linseed  oil  is  frequently  given  to  ruminants,  although 
Epsom  salts  is  generally  the  best  purge  for  them.  It  is 
indicated  for  these  animals  when  a  milder  operation  than 
that  obtained  by  a  full  dose  of  salts  is  required,  and  for  its 
demulcent  action  in  irritable  states  of  the  digestive  organs. 
By  combining  linseed  oil  with  croton  oil  we  procure  a  potent 
purge  for  cattle.  Castor  oil  or  sweet  oil  are  usually  prefer- 
able to  linseed  oil  in  the  treatment  of  dogs.  Soap  suds 
enemata  are  made  more  effective  by  the  addition  of  1  or  2 
pints  of  linseed  oil  (for  horses),  and  1  or  2  ounces  (for  dogs). 
The  oil  may  be  given  in  its  pure  state,  but  more  uncom- 
monly is  prescribed  with  gruel,  glycerin,  mucilage,  or 
molasses.  One  ounce  each  of  linseed  oil  and  molasses  may 
be  given  to  the  larger  animals ;  or  one  drachm  of  either  to 
the  smaller  animals,  as  an  expectorant  in  bronchitis.  The 
mixture  is  often  a  most  serviceable  one  and  probably  acts  by 
improving  the  nutrition  of  the  bronchial  mucous  membrane. 
Linseed  oil  and  sweet  oil  resemble  cod  liver  oil  in  this 
respect,  and  while  both  are  probably  inferior  to  the  latter, 
as  expectorants,  they  are  more  palatable  and  cheaper. 


CASTOR  OIL  545 

Oleum  Kicinl     Castor  Oil.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Oleum  palmse  christi,  huile  de  ricin,  Fr.; 
ricinusol,  G. 

A  fixed  oil  expressed  from  the  seed  of  Ricinus  communis 
Liune  (nat.  ord.  Euphorbiacese). 

Habitat — India.     Cultivated  in  many  countries. 

Properties. — A  pale,  yellowish  and  almost  odorless, 
transparent,  viscid  fluid,  haviug  a  bland,  afterwards  slightly 
acrid,  and  generally  offensive  taste.  Spec.  gr.  0.950-0.970  at 
59°  F.  Soluble  in  equal  volumes  of  alcohol,  and  in  all  pro- 
portions in  absolute  alcohol,  or  in  glacial  acetic  acid  ;  also 
soluble  in  three  times  its  volume  of  a  mixture  of  19  volumes 
of  alcohol  and  1  volume  of  water  (absence  of  more  than  about 
5  per  cent,  of  most  other  fixed  oils). 

Constituents. — 1,  ricinoleiii,  or  ricinoleic  acid  glyceride, 
C3H5  (CigH3^03)3;  2,  an  acrid  principle;  3,  palmitin,  stearin 
and  myristin. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  Oi.  (500.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ii.-iv.  (60.-120.); 
D.  &  Cats,  5  i.-ii.  (30.-60.)  ;  poultry,  3  i.  (4.). 

Castor  Oil  Seeds. — Th'^se  are  not  official.  The  name 
Hicinus  is  applied  to  the  plant  because  of  the  resemblance 
of  the  seed  to  a  ricinus,  or  tick.  The  seeds  are  of  a  shiny, 
gray  color,  marked  with  brownish  spots  and  streaks.  They 
are  about  the  size  of  small  beans  (17  Mm.  X  8  Mm.'),  ovoid, 
flattened,  and  white  inside.  They  contain  60  per  cent,  of 
oil,  and  an  acrid,  poisonous  substance.  Three  seeds  have 
caused  death  in  man,  and  they  are  ten  times  more  purgative 
than  the  oil. 

Action  and  Uses. — Castor  oil  probably  contains  some 
unknown  purgative  principle  which  exists  in  larger  amount 
in  the  seeds.  It  is  often  taught  that  ricinoleic  acid,  derived 
from  the  decomposition  of  ricinolein  in  the  bowels,  produces 
purgation.  This  is  apparently  not  the  case.  Castor  oil  is 
mild,  but  has  a  more  decided  purgative  action  than  linseed 
oil  and  often  occasions  griping.  It  acts  in  4  or  5  hours  and 
will  purge  when  absorbed  from  the  skin  or  rectum.     Castor 


546  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

oil  is  a  galactagogue  and  is  said  to  stimulate  the  secretion  of 
milk  wlien  the  castor  leaves  are  applied  to  the  mammary- 
glands.  Castor  oil  is  specially  applicable  in  canine  practice, 
to  unload  the  bowels,  and  in  irritated  conditions  of  the 
digestive  tract.  It  is  useful  in  constipation  only  as  an 
occasional  remedy,  since  it  is  followed  by  greater  tendency 
in  this  direction;  also  in  overloaded  bowels,  indigestion, 
diarrhoea,  and  pregnancy ;  after  the  ingestion  of  foreign  or 
putrid  matters;  and  to  assist  the  action  of  anthelmintics. 
Castor  oil  is  inferior  to  linseed  oil  for  horses,  as  a  simple 
laxative,  because  it  is  more  prone  to  cause  colicky  pains,  and 
because  it  is  more  expensive.  Castor  oil  is  thought  to  be 
notably  useful  in  irritation  and  inflammation  of  the  intestines 
in  these  animals,  however,  as  in  diarrhoea,  dysentery,  and 
enteritis ;  and  can  be  combined  with  anodynes  and  anti- 
spasmodics to  prevent  griping.  Two  or  three  ounces  of  castor 
oil  are  suitable  for  calves  or  foals  with  gastro-intestinal 
disorders.  One  or  two  teaspoonfuls  are  suitable  for  poultry. 
Administration. — Castor  oil  is  given  to  dogs  with  syrupus 
rhamni  cathartici  in  the  proportion  of  1  ounce  of  the  former 
to  1  drachm  of  the  latter ;  or  with  glycerin  (equal  parts)  and 
a  few  drops  of  oil  of  wintergreen.  It  is  administered  to 
puppies  ( 3  i.-ii.)  with  an  equal  volume  of  sweet  oil.  Castor 
oil  may  be  exhibited  to  horses  with  oil  of  peppermint 
(TTLxx);  or  in  digestive  irritation,  in  warm  cooked  flour 
gruel  with  laudanum  ( §  ss.)  and  fluid  extract  belladonna 
( 3  i-)  j  to  foals  and  calves  with  mucilage  or  gruel  and  5 
drops  of  oil  of  peppermint. 

Rhamnus  Purshiana.     (U.  S.  P.)    Cascara  Sagrada.     (B.  P.) 

Synonym. — California  buckthorn,  sacred  bark,  chittem 
bark. 

The  bark  of  Ehamnus  Purshiana  de  Candolle  (nat.  ord. 
Rhamnaceae). 

Habitat. — United  States  from  northern  Idaho  west  to 
Pacific  Ocean. 


FRANGULA  547 

Description. — In  quills  or  curved  pieces  about  3  to  10 
Cm.  long  and  about  2  Mm.  thick ;  outer  surface  brownish- 
gray  and  whitish ;  the  young  bark  having  numerous  rather 
broad,  pale-colored  warts ;  inner  surface  yellowish  to  light 
brownish,  becoming  dark  brown  by  age;  smooth  or  finely 
striate  ;  fracture  short,  yellowish ;  in  the  inner  layer  of  thick 
bark  somewhat  fibrous  ;  inodorous  ;  taste  bitter. 

Constituents. — 1,  three  resins ;  2,  a  neutral  body ;  3,  a 
volatile  oil ;  4,  malic  and  tannic  acids. 

Dose. — D.,  gr.v.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Bharnni  Purshiance  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Rhamnus 

Purshiana. 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  diluted  alcohol,  and 
evaporation,  so  that  1  Co.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug.   . 

Dose.— D.,  TTiv.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

Extractum  Cascarce  SagradiB  Liquidum.     (B.  P.) 
Dose.—D.,  nv.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 


Franoula.    Frangula.     (U.  S.  P,) 

Synonym. — Rhamni  frangulae  cortex,  B.P.;  buckthorn, 
alder  buckthorn,  black  alder,  E.;  bourdaine,  bourgene,  Fr.; 
faulbaumrinde,  G.;  cortex  frangulae,  P.G. 

The  bark  of  Rhamnus  Frangula  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Rham- 
nese),  collected  at  least  one  year  before  being  used. 

Habitat. — Europe  and  northern  Asia. 

Description. — Quilled,  about  1  Mm.  thick ;  outer  surface 
grayish-brown,  or  blackish-brown,  with  numerous  small, 
whitish,  transversely-elongated  lenticles  ;  inner  surface 
smooth,  pale  brownish-yellow;  fracture  in  the  outer  layer 
short,  of  a  purplish  tint ;  in  the  inner  layer  fibrous  and  pale 
yellow  ;  when  masticated,  coloring  the  saliva  yellow ;  nearly 
inodorous ;  taste  sweetish  and  bitter. 

Constituents.— 1,  a  glucoside,  frangulin  (CjoHooOio),  con- 
verted in  time  into  (2)  emodin  (C15H10O5),  a  glucoside,  to 
which  the  drug  owes  its  purgative  action.     Frangulin  yields 


k 


548  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

emodin,  a   constituent   of  rhubarb   as  well,  and   rhamnose 
(C„H,0,),  by  hydrolysis. 

Dose.—T>.,  3ss.-i.  (2.-4.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Franguke  Fluidum-    Fluid  Extract  of  Frangula. 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol  and  water,  and 
evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc   of  the  preparation  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 
Dose.— D.,  3ss.-i.  (2.-4.). 

Extractum  Rhamnce  FrangulcB  Liquidum.     (B.  P.) 
Dose.— D.,  3i.-iv.Y4.-15.). 


E.HAMNU8  Catharticus.     (Non-official.) 

The  berries  of  K.  catharticus,  from  which  an  acrid^ 
nauseous,  bitter  juice  is  obtained.  A  syrup — syrupus  rhamni 
cathartici — is  prepared  from  the  juice  (B.P.)  with  sugar, 
ginger  and  pimento. 

Dose  of  Syrup.— J).,  l  i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Cats,  I  ss.-i.  (15.-30.). 

Action  and  Uses. — The  buckthorns  are  laxatives  in  the 
doses  employed  in  medicine.  The  fresh  bark  of  R.  frangula 
produces  violent  gastro-enteritis  (frangulin),  and  therefore 
must  be  kept  a  year  before  using.  The  same  remark  applies 
with  less  force  to  E,.  Purshiana.  Cascara  sagrada  is  prob- 
ably the  best  mild  purgative  remedy  for  dogs  with  chronic 
constipation,  and  the  dose  does  not  require  to  be  increased 
on  repetition.  In  fact,  the  tone  of  the  bowels  is  improved  by 
the  drug.  It  is  more  reliable  and  active  than  frangula. 
Cascara  may  cause  some  griping.  It  is  very  bitter  and 
therefore  may  promote  gastric  digestion  and  appetite.  The 
aromatic  fluid  extract  made  by  a  well-known  firm  is  a  most 
serviceable  preparation  in  preventing  colic  and  in  disguising 
the  taste.  The  average  dose  for  the  dog  is  TTtxx.-xxx.  each 
night,  or  Tl^v.-x.  thrice  daily.  The  syrup  of  buckthorn  is 
commonly  prescribed  to  dogs  with  castor  oil,  of  each  one 
ounce ;  or  one  drachm  of  the  former  with  an  ounce  of  the 
latter,  for  an  occasional  purgative. 


RHUBARB  549 

Rheum.     Rhubarb.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Rhei  radix,  B.P.;  rhubarbe,  Fr.;  rhubar- 
ber,  G. 

The  root  of  Rheum  officinale  Baillon  (nat.  ord.  Poly- 
gouacese). 

Description. — In  cylindrical,  conical  or  flattish  segments, 
deprived  of  the  dark  brown,  corky  layer,  smoothish  or  some- 
what wrinkled  ;  externally  covered  with  a  bright  yellowish- 
brown  powder,  marked  with  white,  elongated  meshes,  con- 
taining a  white,  rather  spongy  tissue  and  a  number  of  sh6rt, 
reddish-brown  or  brownish-yellow  strige ;  compact,  hard; 
fracture  uneven ;  internally  white,  with  numerous  red, 
irregularly-curved  and  interrupted  medullary  rays,  which  are 
radially  parallel  only  near  the  cambium  line ;  odor  some- 
what peculiar,  aromatic ;  taste  bitter,  somewhat  astringent. 
When  chewed,  rhubarb  feels  gritty  between  the  teeth,  and 
imparts  a  yellow  color  to  the  saliva. 

Constituents. — 1,  a  glucoside,  chrysarobin  (C27H30O14), 
which  yields  2-3  per  cent,  of  chrysophanic  acid  (CigHioOJ, 
also  called  rhein  or  chrysophan ;  2,  rheotannic  acid  (CaeHggOJ, 
which  gives  astringency  to  rhubarb ;  3,  calcium  oxalate  (35 
per  cent.),  causing  grittiness  ;  4,  resinous  bodies  :  phseoretin, 
emodin,  aporetin  and  erythroretin.  Chrysophanic  acid  and 
the  resins  are  somewhat  purgative,  but  the  exact  purgative 
principle  has  yet  to  be  discovered. 

Dose.—StomacUc—R.  k  C,  I  i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.,  3  i.  (4); 
D.  &  Cats,  gr.v.-x.  (.3-.6). 

3Iild  Purgative — Foals  and  Calves,  3  i.-^ii-  (4.-8.);  D., 
3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Rhei  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Rhubarb. 

(U.S.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol  and  water,  and 
evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 
Dose. — Same  as  that  of  rhubarb. 


i550  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

Pulvis  Rhei  Compositus.     Compound  Powder  of  Rhubarb. 
(U.  S.  &B.  P.) 
Synonym.  —  Gregory's    powder.      Rhubarb,    25  ;    magnesia,    65 ; 
ginger,  10. 

Dose. — Foals  and  Calves,  §  ss.-i.  (15.-30.). 

Extractum  Rhei.     Extract  of  Rhubarb.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Dose.— D.,  gr.v.-x.  (.3-.6). 

There  are  many  other  official  preparations,  but  they  possess  no 
value  in  veterinary  medicine. 

Action  Internal — Alimentary  Canal. — Rhubarb  is  a  bitter, 
and.  therefore  in  small  doses  improves  digestion  in  all 
animals  by  increasing  the  flow  of  salivary  and  gastric  juices, 
and  by  stimulating  the  appetite,  vascularity,  and  movements 
of  the  stomach.  It  is  called  a  stomachic  and  bitter  tonic. 
Larger  doses  cause  mild  purgation  in  the  case  of  dogs  and 
cats,  but  horses  and  cattle  are  but  slightly  affected  in  this 
way.  Rhubarb  augments  the  secretion  of  bile.  It  is  com- 
monly described  as  an  agent  which  stimulates  peristaltic 
action,  but  it  is  not  certainly  known  how  purging  is  brought 
about.  Secondary  constipation  is  more  apt  to  follow  the 
use  of  rhubarb  than  other  drugs,  because  of  rheotannic  acid. 
This  substance  may  be  absorbed  and  eliminated  into  the 
bowels  after  the  occurrence  of  purgation.  Rhubarb,  by 
virtue  of  chrysophanic  acid,  stains  the  faeces,  urine,  milk  and 
sweat  yellow  in  its  excretion. 

Uses. — Rhubarb  is  an  efficient  laxative  remedy  for  the 
treatment  of  indigestion  in  young  animals  associated  with 
diarrhoea.  In  this  condition  it  sweeps  out  the  source  of  irrita- 
tion and  then  exerts  an  astringent  effect.  The  drug  often 
acts  most  favorably  with  an  antacid  in  the  disorders  noted. 
Gregory's  powder  is  useful  in  the  care  of  foals,  calves  and 
lambs  with  diarrhoea.  The  fluid  extract  may  be  given  to 
dogs,  but  rhubarb  is  not  so  generally  useful  a  purgative  for 
these  animals  as  castor  oil,  calomel,  or  cascara  sagrada. 
Rhubarb  has  been  recommended  when  a  laxative  is  desirable, 
in  cases  of  haemorrhoids,  to  improve  local  tone,  and  also  as 
a  purgative  in  diarrhoea  of  young  animals  due  to  worms. 


CHRYSAROBIN  551 

One  or  two  drops  of  the  tincture  of  rhubarb  in  the 
drinking  water  form  a  serviceable  laxative  for  small  birrls. 

Chrysarobindm.     Chrysarobin.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Goa  powder,  araroba  powder. 

A  neutral  principle,  in  its  commercial,  more  or  less 
impure  form,  extracted  from  Goa  Powder,  a  substance  found 
deposited  in  the  wood  of  Andira  Araroba  Aguiar  (nat.  ord. 
Leguminosse). 

Hnhitaf. — B  razi  1 . 

Properties.  —  A  pale  orange-yellow,  microcrystalline 
powder,  odorless  and  tasteless ;  turning  brownish-yetlow  on 
exposure  to  the  air.  Very  slightly  soluble  in  cold  water  or 
alcohol.     Soluble  in  solutions  of  alkalies. 

Constituents.  —  Chiefly  chrysarobin  (C^JFLsoOu^)  —  also 
called  rhein  and  chrysophan, — an  orange-yellow,  crystalline 
glucoside,  somewhat  soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether;  freely 
soluble  in  chloroform  and  benzol.  It  is  oxidized  into  chry- 
sophanic  acid  (CigHjoOJ,  and  glucose. 

PREPARATION. 

Unguentum  Chrysarobini.    Chrysarobin  Ointment.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Chrysarobin,  5  ;  benzoinated  lard,  95,     (U.  S.) 

Action  and  Uses. — Chrysarobin  is  a  powerful  irritant  to 
the  skin  and  destroys  parasites.  It  stains  the  skin  and  other 
materials  dark  brown.  This  may  be  removed,  unless  fixed 
by  an  alkali,  with  a  weak  solution  of  chlorinated  lime  or 
caustic  soda.  Chrysarobin  is  also  a  strong  irritant  in  the 
gastro-intestinal  tract,  causing  vomiting  and  purging  in 
carnivora.  It  is  eliminated  by  the  kidneys,  coloring  the 
urine  yellow. 

Chrysarobin  is  used  as  a  parasiticide  in  the  treatment  of 
ringworm,  and  as  a  stimulant  to  the  skin  in  chronic  cutaneous 
disorders,  as  eczema  (with  much  itching  and  sealing),  pity- 
riasis, and  particularly  psoriasis.  The  official  5  per  cent, 
ointment  should  be  diluted  2  or  3  times  for  delicate  skins. 


bo.2  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

It  should  be  applied  over  a  large  area  with  care,  but  is  one 
op  the  most  efficient  remedies  in  obstinate  diseases  of  the 
skin. 

Senna.     Senna. 

Synonym. — Senna  Alexandrina,  sennalndica,  B.P.;  senna 
leaves,  folia  sennse,  E.;  feuilles  de  sene,  Fr.;  sennesblatter,  G. 

The  leaflets  of  Cassia  acutifolia  Delile  (Alexandria 
Senna),  and  of  Cassia  augustifolia  Yahl  (India  Senna);  (nat. 
ord.  Legumiuosae). 

Description. — Alexandria  Senna. — It  consists  of  leaflets 
about  25  Mm.  long  and  10  Mm.  broad,  lanceolate  or  lance- 
oval,  subcoriaceous,  brittle,  rather  pointed,  unequally  oblique 
at  the  base,  entire,  grayish-green,  somewhat  pubescent,  of  a 
peculiar  odor  and  a  nauseous,  bitter  taste. 

Impurities. — Argel  leaves  (Solenostemma  Argel  Hayne, 
nai  ord.  Asclepiadse),  are  frequently  present.  They  are 
thicker,  one-veined,  wrinkled,  glaucous,  and  even  at  the  base. 

India  Seniia.— It  consists  of  leaflets  3  to  5  Cm.  long,  and 
10  to  15  Mm.  broad ;  lanceolate,  acute,  unequally  oblique  at 
the  base;  entire,  thin,  yellowish-green,  nearly  smooth  ;  odor 
peculiar,  somewhat  tea-like ;  taste  mucilaginous,  bitter  and 
nauseous.  It  should  be  free  from  stalks,  discolored  leaves 
and  other  admixtures. 

Habitat. — Alexandria  Senna  —  Upper  Egypt,  Nubia,  and 
Central  Africa. 

Indian  Senna,  or  Tinnivelly  Senna — Eastern  Africa  to 
India. 

Constituents. — 1,  the  purgative  properties  are  chiefly  due 
to  magnesium  and  calcium  cathartates ;  salts  of  cathartic 
acid  (CigoHggNoSOga),  a  black,  amorphous  glucoside ;  2,  two 
glucosides,  sennacrol  and  sennapicrin,  insoluble  in  water  ;  3, 
chrysophanic  acid ;  4,  cathartomannit  (CjiH^iOig),  an  unfer- 
m  en  table  sugar. 

Bose.—n.  &  C,  5iv.-v.  (120.-150.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  J  i.-ii. 
(30.-60.);  D.  &  C,  3i.-iv.  (4,-15.). 


SENNA  553 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extraetum  Sennce  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Senna.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  diluted  alcohol,  and 
evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 
Dose. — Same  as  senna. 

Pulvis  GlycyrrhizcB  Compositus.    Compound  Powder  of  Glycyrrhissa. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Compound  liquorice  powder. 

Senna,  180  ;  glycyrrhiza,  236  ;  washed  sulphur,  80  ;  oil  of  fennel,  4; 
sugar,  500. 

Dose.— D.,  3ss.  ii.  (2.-8.). 

Action  Internal. — Senna  stimulates  and  increases  the 
vascularity  of  the  intestinal  mucous  membrane,  and  causes 
increased  peristalsis  of  the  large  intestines,  particularly  of 
the  colon.  It  produces  copious  pale-yellow-  and  watery 
evacuations.  The  drug  has  a  nauseous  taste  and  purging  is 
accompanied  by  some  griping  and  flatulence.  Senna  acts 
more  satisfactorily  when  combined  with  other  purgative 
agents.  It  is  absorbed  and  will  occasion  catharsis  in  suck- 
lings after  administration  to  their  mothers,  and  after  intra- 
venous injection.  The  urine  may  be  colored  red  or  yellow 
by  its  elimination.  It  is  extremely  doubtful  if  senna  exerts 
any  influence  on  biliary  secretion. 

Uses. — Senna  is  but  rarely  employed  in  veterinary  medi- 
cine. It  may  be  used  where  a  simple,  vigorous  cathartic  is 
indicated  in  constipation,  or  in  cases  of  slight  faecal  accumu- 
lation. 

The  drug  acts  more  efi'ectively  when  given  in  conjunc- 
tion with  salts.  The  fluid  extract,  or  an  infusion  made  by 
pouring  boiling  water  over  the  leaves  and  allowing  them  to 
macerate  until  the  water  becomes  cold,  are  added  to  solu- 
tions of  magnesium  sulphate.  This  combination  is  more 
suitable  for  cattle  or  sheep.  Compound  liquorice  powder 
may  be  given  to  dogs  as  a  simple  purgative  in  occasional  or 
habitual  constipation. 


554  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 


Class  2.— Drastic  Purgatives. 

Oleum  Tiglh.     Croton  Oil.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Oleujn  crotonis,  B.P.;  huile  de  croton,  huile 
de  graines  de  tilly,  Fr.;  crotonol,  G. 

A  fixed  oil  expressed  from  the  seed  of  Croton  Tiglium 
Linne  (nat  ord.  Euphorbiacese). 

Habitat. — India,  Indian  Archij^elago,  and  Philippine 
Islands.     Also  cultivated. 

Properties. — A  pale  yellow  or  brownish-yellow,  somewhat 
viscid,  and  somewhat  fluorescent  liquid,  having  a  slight  fatty 
odor,  and  a  mild,  oily,  afterwards  burning  and  acrid  taste 
(great  caution  is  necessary  in  tasting).  Spec.  gr.  0.940  to 
0.960  at  59°  F.  When  fresh  it  is  soluble  in  about  60  parts 
of  alcohol,  the  solubility  increasing  by  age.  It  is  freely 
soluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  and  in  fixed 
and  volatile  oils. 

Constitiients.  —  1,  crotonol  (CjgHj^O^),  a  non-purgative 
body  causing  irritation  of  the  skin ;  2,  tiglinic  acid  (CgHgOJ, 
and  many  volatile  acids  existing  as  glycerides  and  account- 
ing for  the  odor  of  croton  oil ;  3,  free  and  combined  fatty 
acids.     The  purgative  principle  is  undiscovered. 

Z>ose.— H.,11|^xv.-xxx.  (1.-2.);  C,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4);  Sh.  <fe  Sw., 
n\,v.-x.  (.3-.6);  D.,  lTLss.-iii.  (.03-.18). 

Croton  seeds  resemble  castor  seeds  in  size,  but  are  not 
mottled  or  shiny.  They  are  13  Mm.  long  by  8  Mm.  wide; 
oval  in  shape*;  white  within,  and  possessing  a  mild,  mucila- 
ginous taste  at  first,  but  soon  becoming  hot  and  sharp.  They 
contain  from  50  to  60  per  cent,  of  (proton  oil. 

Action  External. — Croton  oil  is  a  most  powerful  irritant, 
causing  pain,  redness  and  swelling  of  the  skin,  soon  followed 
by  vesicles  and  pustules.  Permanent  destruction  of  the  hair 
follicles  succeeds  with  loss  of  hair  and  cicatrices.  When 
applied  to  the  skin,  injected  into  the  blood  or  under  the  skin, 
it  is  eliminated   to  some  extent  by  the  bowels,  producing 


CROTON  OIL  555 

purging;  and  sometimes  by  the  kidneys,  creating  diuresis, 
irritation  of  these  organs  and  strangury. 

Action  Internal — Croton  oil  is  also  an  intense  internal 
irritant.  It  increases  the  vascularity  of  the  stomach  and 
bowels  and  in  large  doses  creates  gastro-enteritis.  Medicinal 
doses  notably  augment  the  intestinal  secretions — but  not 
that  of  bile — and  to  a  degree  peristalsis.  The  drug  may 
act  in  half  an  hour,  but  usually  within  a  few  hours,  and  pur- 
gation is  attended  with  colicky  pain  and  griping.  The 
movements  are  very  fluid  and  sometimes  contain  blood. 
Croton  oil  is  therefore  a  drastic  hydrogogue  cathartic.  The 
purgative  action  is  probably  due  in  part  to  direct  irritation 
of  the  intestinal  mucous  membrane  ;  in  part  to  absorption 
and  elimination  of  the  oil  by  the  bowels. 

Toxicology. — Ten  drops  of  croton  oil  will  kill  a  dog 
unless  vomiting  occurs.  Thirty  drops  prove  fatal  to 
a  horse,  intravenously.  The  treatment  of  poisoning  in- 
cludes the  use  of  emetics  or  stomach  tube,  demulcents  and 
opium. 

Administration. — Croton  oil  may  be  placed  on  the  tongue 
of  an  unconscious  animal,  in  a  small  quantity  of  linseed  oil, 
olive  oil,  or  lard.  The  oil  can  also  be  given  in  epema  with  a 
pint  of  linseed  oil.  It  may  be  exhibited  to  dogs  in  pill, 
castor  oil,  or  rubbed  up  with  a  little  butter  and  sme<ared 
on  the  back  of  the  tongue.  Croton  oil  (in  a  pint  of  linseed 
oil)  is  valuable  in  assisting  the  action  of  salts  in  obstinate 
constipation  of  cattle.  .  It  may  be  administered  to  horses 
(TTLx.),  when  a  powerful  derivative  and  purgative  action  is 
indicatedj  as  in  acute  inflammation  of  the  brain  and  cord, 
with  calomel  and  aloes  in  ball. 

Uses  External. — Croton  oil  is  ordinarily  superseded  by 
milder  counter-irritants,  as  turpentine,  mustard,  or  stimulat- 
ing liniments ;  but  it  may  be  employed  so  as  to  secure  any 
degree  of  irritation  according  to  its  strength.  It  is  occasion- 
ally used  for  horses  in  acute  diseases  of  the  brain,  applied 
around  the  poll  and  on  the  back  of  the  neck ;  1  part 
(20-301TL),  with  30  parts  each  of  oil  of  turpentine  and  lin- 


65G  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

seed  oil ;  in  acute  disorders  of  the  cliest  (lO-lSTTt  on  either 
side)  and  abdomen  (40111,),  similarly  diluted. 

Absorption,  purging  and  revulsant  action  may  be 
secured  by  the  external  application  of  croton  oil.  Croton 
oil  is  more  often  employed  in  cattle  (1-6  or  10,  with  cod  liver 
oil)  for  its  counter-irritant  effect  when  rubbed  into  the  skin, 
as  in  laryngitis,  glandular  enlargement,  and  rheumatic  joints. 
It  is  less  likely  to  cause  severe  inflammation  and  blemishing 
than  in  horses.  For  swine,  croton  oil  is  diluted  with  2 
volumes  of  linseed  or  cod  liver  oil. 

Uses  Internal. — Croton  oil  is  more  suitable  as  a  drastic 
cathartic  for  cattle,  than  for  horses.  It  is  prescribed  in 
obstinate  constipation  (not  of  organic  origin)  when  other 
remedies  fail.  Also  in  unconscious  conditions  where  its 
small  bulk  will  allow  of  its  exhibition.  Again,  for  its  deriva- 
tive and  rapid  effect  in  cerebral  congestion,  parturient 
apoplexy,  etc.  Croton  oil  may  be  given  to  dogs  and  pigs  in 
similar  conditions.  The  oil  is  too  irritant  for  horses  to 
justify  its  use  save  in  exceptional  cases. 

SoAMMONiUM.     Scammony.     (U.  S,  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Scammonee,  Fr.;  scammonium,  G. 

A  resinous  exudation  from  the  living  root  of  Convolvu- 
lus Scammonia  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Convolvulaceae). 

Habitat. — Syria. 

Description. — In  irregular,  angular  pieces  or  circular 
cakes,  greenish-gray  or  blackish ;  internally  porous,  and 
breaking  with  an  angular  fracture ;  of  a  resinous  lustre ; 
odor  peculiar,  somewhat  cheese-like ;  taste  slightly  acrid ; 
powder  gray  or  greenish-gray.  "When  triturated  with  water, 
scammony  yields  a  greenish  emulsion ;  ether  dissolves  at 
least  75  per  cent,  of  it. 

Constittients. — 1,  a  resin  (80-95  per  cent.);  2,  gum  ;  3, 
starch. 

Dose.—D.y  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  Cats,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4);  Sw.,  3  ii.-iv. 
(8.-15.). 


JALAP  557 

PREPARATION. 

Resina  Scammonii.     Resin  of  Scammony.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Derivation. — Made  by  solution  in  boiling  alcohol,  and  precipitation 
with  water. 

Pi^operties. — Yellowish-brown  or  brownish-yellow  masses  or  frag- 
ments, breaking  with  a  glossy,  resinous  fracture ;  translucent  at  the 
edges;  or  a  yellowish-white  or  grayish-white  powder,  having  a  faint, 
peculiar  odor,  and  a  slight,  peculiar  taste.  Soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  and 
oil  of  turpentine. 

Constituents.  —  Mainly  scammonin  (C88H166O42),  identical  with 
jalapin. 

Dose. — One-half  that  of  scammony. 

Jalapa.     Jalap.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Tuber  jalapse,  P.G.;  jalap,  radix  jalapae,  Fr.; 
jalape,  jalapenknoUen,  G. 

The  tuberous  root  of  Ipomoea  Jalapa  Nuttall  (nat.  ord. 
Convolvulacese). 

Habitat. — Mexico. 

Description. — Napiform,  pyriform  or  oblong,  varying  in 
size ;  the  large  roots  incised,  more  or  less  wrinkled ;  dark 
brown,  with  lighter-colored  spots,  and  short  transverse 
ridges;  hard,  compact,  internally  pale  grayish-brown,  with 
numerous  concentric  circles  composed  of  small  resin-cells ; 
fracture  resinous,  not  fibrous;  odor  slight,  but  peculiar, 
smoky  and  sweetish  ;  taste  sweetish  and  acrid.  Contains  12 
per  cent,  of  resin  of  jalap  obtained  by  solution  of  jalap  in 
alcohol  and  precipitation  with  water. 

Constituents. — 1,  a  hard  resin,  chiefly  the  glucoside  jala- 
purgin  ;  2,  a  soft  resin. 

Dose.—D.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  Cats,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4);  Sw.,  3  ii.-iv. 
(8.-15.). 

PREPARATION. 

Resina  Jalapce.     Resin  of  Jalap.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P  ) 

Derivation. — Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol, 
partial  distillation ;  precipitation  with  water ;  washing  and  drying. 

Properties.  —  Yellowish-brown  or  brown  masses  or  fragments, 
breaking  with  a  resinous,  glossy  fracture,  translucent  at  the  edges,  or 


558  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

a  yellowish-gray  or  yellowish-brown  powder,  having  a  slight,  peculiar 
odor,  and  a  somewhat  acrid  taste.  Permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble  in 
alcohol;  insoluble  in  carbon  disulphide,  benzol,  and  fixed  and  volatile 
oils.     Not  more  than  10  per  cent,  of  it  is  soluble  in  ether. 

Constituents. — 1,  jalapurgin  (CeaHiooOaa),  the  most  active  principle; 
insoluble  in  ether ;  2,  convolvulin  or  jalapin,  identical  with  scammonin; 
3,  starch  or  gum. 

JPose.— One-quarter  that  of  jalap. 

ACTION   OF   SCAMMONY  AND  JALAP. 

Scammony  and  jalap  are  powerful  liydragogue  cathartics 
in  their  action  on  swine,  dogs  and  cats.  Horses  and  cattle 
are  but  slightly  affected  by  them  in  ordinary  doses.  Their 
resins  are  dissolved  by  the  bile  in  the  duodenum,  and  a  pur- 
gative substance  is  formed  which  chiefly  stimulates  the 
intestinal  glands  and  causes  a  copious  outpouring  of 
secretion. 

Both  drugs  excite  peristaltic  action  and  increase  the 
vascularity  of  the  intestinal  mucous  membrane,  particularly 
scammony,  so  that  griping  may  occur.  They  produce  gastro- 
intestinal irritation,  with  vomiting  and  purging,  in  animals 
capable  of  the  act,  after  large  doses.  While  jalap  and 
scammony  are  active  purgatives,  they  are  not  always  certain, 
and  are  therefore  more  frequently  employed  in  combination 
with  other  cathartics.  They  are  indirectly  cholagogue — 
like  calomel — in  sweeping  out  bile  from  the  small  intestines 
and  preventing  its  reabsorption,  and  are  said  to  be  anthel- 
mintics as  well.  The  active  principles  of  both  drugs  are 
absorbedj  as  death  has  taken  place  in  an  infant  after  exhibi- 
tion of  scammony  to  its  nurse,  aqd  purging  has  followed  the 
rubbing  of  jalap  into  the  shaven  skin  of  dogs. 

Uses. — ^Jalap  is  in  more  common  use  than  scammony 
because  it  is  somewhat  more  of  a  hydragogue  and  less  prone 
to  cause  griping.  It  is  particularly  indicated  in  dropsy  or 
ascites  of  dogs,  made  into  pills  with  from  3  to  5  grains  of 
calomel.  Jalap  may  also  be  given  to  expel  round  or  thread 
worms;  in  torpidity  of  the  liver;  and  in  obstinate  constipa- 
tion in  dogs.     The  latter  is  treated  more  satisfactorily  by 


GAMBOGE  559 

massage,  rectal  euemata,  manual  evacuation  and  repeated 
doses  of  sweet  oil. 


Cambogia.     Gamboge.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Gutti,  P.G.;  gummi  resina  guttse  s.  gutti, 
gutta  gamba,  cambodia,  gutte,  gomme-gutti,  Fr.;  gummi- 
gutt,  gutti,  G. 

A  gum-resin  obtained  from  Garcinia  Hanburii  Hooker 
filius  (nat.  ord.  Guttiferse). 

Habitat. — Siam,  Anam,  and  Camboja. 

Properties.— In  cylindrical  pieces,  sometimes  hollow  in 
the  centre,  2  to  5  Cm.  in  diameter,  longitudinally  striate  on 
the  surface ;  fracture  flattish,  conchoidal,  of  a  waxy  lustre, 
orange-red ;  in  powder  bright-yellow  ;  inodorous  ;  taste  very 
acrid ;  the  powder  sternutatory.  Gamboge  is  partially 
soluble  in  alcohol  and  ether.  When  triturated  with  water  it 
yields  a  yellow  emulsion,  and  forms  with  solution  of  potas- 
sium or  sodium  hydrate  au  orange-red  solution  from  which, 
on  the  addition  of  hydrochloric  acid,  a  yellow  resin  is 
precipitated. 

Constituents.  —  1,  gambogic  acid,  a  bright  yellow  or 
orange-red  resin,  to  the  extent  of  about  75  per  cent,  of  the 
crude  drug ;  it  is  not  so  active  as  the  crude  drug ;  2,  a 
soluble  gum. 

Dose.—R.,  §ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  C,  §  i.-i.ss.  (30.-45.);  Sh.  <fe 
Sw.,  gr.xx.-3i.  (1.3-4);  D.,  gr.v.-x.  (.3-.6). 

Action  and  Uses. — Gamboge  is  a  drastic,  hydragogue 
purgative,  and  slightly  diuretic.  Its  action  is  uncertain  and 
often  violent,  with  production  of  griping  pains.  Large  doses 
cause  vomiting  in  carnivora  and  omnivora,  and  gastro -enter- 
itis in  all  animals. 

Gamboge  is  dissolved  by  the  bile  and  alkaline  intestinal 
juices  and  some  of  it  is  absorbed,  since  it  colors  the  urine 
yellow  in  its  elimination  and  occasions  diuresis.  Attempts 
to  create  catharsis  by  injection  of  gamboge  ijito  the  blood, 
have  proved  futile.     Gamboge  should  never  be  prescribed 


660  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

alone  and  is  rarely  used  in  veterinary  medicine.  It  Las 
been  recommended  in  obstinate  constipation,  indigestion, 
impaction  of  the  third  stomach,  and  cerebral  diseases  of 
cattle,  combined  with  salts.  The  smaller  of  the  foregoing 
doses  are  to  be  employed,  as  the  amount  of  the  active 
principle  is  variable.  The  gum  forms  an  emulsion  when  the 
drug  is  triturated  with  water. 

CoLOCYNTHis.     Colocynth.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym.  —  Colocynthidis  pulpa,  B.P. ;  coloquintida, 
bitter  apple,  E  ;  coloquinte,  Fr.;  koloquinten,  G. 

The  fruit  of  Citrullus  Colocynthis  Schrader  (nat.  ord. 
Cucurbitacese),  deprived  of  its  rind. 

Habitat. — A  vine  growing  in  North  and  South  Africa, 
South  and  West  Asia,  and  Japan,  etc. 

Description. — From  5  to  10  Cm.  in  diameter ;  globular, 
white  or  yellowish-white ;  light,  spongy,  readily  breaking 
into  three  wedge-shaped  pieces,  each  containing,  near  the 
rounded  surface,  many  flat,  ovate,  brown  seeds  ;  inodorous ; 
taste  intensely  bitter.  The  pulp  only  should  be  used ;  the 
seeds  separated  and  rejected. 

Constituents.— \y  the  chief  purgative  principle  is  colocyn- 
thin  (CsgHg^Oja),  1-2  per  cent.  An  amorphous  or  crystal- 
line bitter  glucoside.  Soluble  in  water  and  alcohol.  There 
is  also  (2)  an  insoluble,  resinous  body  called  colocynthitin, 
or  citrullin. 

Dose.  —  Coloq/nthin  —  H.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4);  D.,  gr.|^-i. 
(.015-.06). 

Colocynth— D.,  gr.ii.-iii.  (.12-.18). 

Elaterinum.     Elaterin.     C^oH^^O^.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Cucumis  asininus,  cucumis  agrestis,  wild  or 
squirting  cucumber,  E.;  concombre  sauvage  (purgatif  d'ane), 
Fr.;  springgurke  essels-kiirbis,  spritzgurke,  G. 

A  neutral  principle  obtained  from  elaterium,  a  substance 


ACTION  AND  USES  OF  COLOCYNTH  AND  ELATERIN    561 

deposited  bj  the  juice  of  the  fruit  of  Ecballium  Elaterium 
(Liniie)  A.  Richard  (nat.  ord.  Cucurbitacese). 

Habitat. — Elaterium  grows  in  North  Africa,  "West  Asia 
and  Southern  Europe.     It  is  also  cultivated. 

Derivation. — Elaterium  is  exhausted  with  chloroform. 
Ether  is  added  and  elaterin  is  precipitated  and  is  purified  by 
redissolving  in  chloroform  and  crystallizing. 

Properties. — Minute,  white,  hexagonal  scales,  or  prisma- 
tic crystals,  without  odor,  and  having  a  slight,  acrid,  bitter 
taste.  Soluble  in  4250  parts  of  water,  and  in  337  parts  of 
alcohol ;  also  soluble  in  543  parts  of  ether,  or  in  2.4  parts  of 
chloroform.     Permanent  in  the  air. 

Dose.—D.,  gr.^-yV  (.003-.005). 

ACTIONS  AND  USES  OF  COLOCYNTH  AND  ELATERIN. 

The  action  of  colocynth  and  elaterin  is  similar  in  man, 
but  the  latter  is  more  powerful.  Both  greatly  increase 
secretions  and,  slightly,  the  flow  of  bile ;  while  they  stimu- 
late peristalsis  in  some  degree.  Large  doses  cause  painful 
griping,  gastro-intestinal  inflammation,  excessive  watery 
purging,  and  collapse.  Elaterin  frequently  fails  to  purge 
horses  and  dogs,  although  death  may  follow  large  doses. 
Colocynth  acts  more  certainly  in  the  lower  animals  and  is 
recommended  by  P.  Cagny  in  dropsy  and  cerebral  disease. 
Neither  drug,  however,  is  of  any  importance  in  veterinary 
medicine.  Colocynth  is  contained  in  the  compound  cathartic 
pill  given  to  dogs  in  doses  of  from  one  to  three  pills. 


Class  3.— Cholagogue  Purgatives. 

Podophyllum.     Podophyllum. 

Synonym. — Podophylli  rhizoma,  B.P.;  May  apple,  main- 
drake  root,  E.,  podophylle,  Fr.;  fussblatwurzel,  G. 

The  rhizome  and  roots  of  Podophyllum  pellatum  Linne 
(nat.  ord.  Berberideae). 

Habitat. — North  America. 


562  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

Description. — Of  horizontal  growth,  consisting  of  joints 
about  5  Mm.  thick,  but  somewhat  enlarged  at  the  end, 
which  has  a  circular  scar  on  the  upper  side,  a  tuft  of  about 
10,  nearly  simple,  fragile  roots  on  the  lower  side,  and  is 
sometimes  branched  laterally;  smooth  or  somewhat  wrinkled, 
orange-brown,  internally  white  and  mealy,  with  a  circle  of 
small  wood  bundles;  pith  large;  nearly  inodorous;  taste 
sweetish,  somewhat  bitter  and  acrid. 

Constituents. — 1,  a  resin,  podophyllin  (4-5  per  cent.);  2, 
a  coloring  matter,  podophyllinic  acid. 

PREPARATION. 

Resina  Podophylli.    Resin  of  Podophyllum.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Podophyllin. 

Derivation. — Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  podophyllum 
with  alcohol;  partial  evaporation,  and  precipitation  of  the  resin  with 
diluted  hydrochloric  acid;  washing  with  water,  drying. 

Properties.— \n  amorphous  powder,  varying  in  color  from  grayish - 
white  to  pale  greenish-yellow  or  yellowish-green  ;  having  a  slight, 
peculiar  odor,  and  a  peculiar,  faintly  bitter  taste.  Permanent  in  the 
air.  Soluble  in  alcohol  and  in  solutions  of  potassium  and  sodium 
hydrate. 

Constituents.— Chie^Y  podophyllotoxin  (C23Ha40»  4-  2  HaO),  stated 
to  be  a  mixture  of  a  purgative  principle,  picropodophyllin,  and  an 
inert  body,  podophyllinic  acid,  associated  with  a  coloring  matter,  podo- 
phylloquercitin,  and  other  resins. 

Dose.—B,.  &  C,  3  i.-ii-  (4.-8.);  D.,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.  12). 

Action. — Podophyllin  is  essentially  a  cholagogue  cathar- 
tic of  slow  and  uncertain  action.  Large  doses  cause 
purging  and  vomiting  in  animals,  and  lethal  quantities  occa- 
sion gastro-enteritis,  colic,  super-purgation,  with  bloody 
fgecal  evacuations,  convulsions  and  death.  It  acts  in  the 
same  way  whether  it  is  applied  externally,  injected  into  the 
blood,  or  given  internally.  Podophyllin  must  therefore 
exert  its  effect  after  absorption,  and  about  10  hours  are 
required  to  produce  purgation.  The  action  is  exerted 
mainly  on  the  duodenum,  which  is  intensely  inflamed  and 
even  ulcerated  in  poisoning.  Podophyllin  directly  increases 
the  secretion  of  bile  in  small  doses,  while  purgative  quanti- 


NUTGALL  563 

ties  hasten  its  excretion  by  stimulation  of  the  muscular  coat 
of  the  gall  bladder  (except  in  the  horse)  and  small  intes- 
tines. It  is  probable  that  the  intestinal  secretions  are 
somewhat  augmented.  The  faecal  movements,  after  medi- 
cinal doses  of  podophyllin,  are  liquid,  often  stained  with  bile, 
and  may  be  accompanied  by  some  nausea  and  griping. 
Since  podophyllin  is  an  uncertain  purgative,  affecting  differ- 
ent patients  unequally,  it  should  be  combined  with  other 
agents  when  a  purgative  action  is  desired  ;  preferably  calo- 
mel and  aloes.  The  time  required  for  the  action  of  these 
drugs  is  nearly  the  same  as  that  necessary  for  podophyllin. 
Aloes  increases  biliary  secretion,  while  calomel  is  an  indirect 
chologogue  in  sweeping  bile  out  of  the  small  intestines  and 
preventing  its  reabsorption. 

Administration. — Podophyllin  should  be  given  to  dogs 
in  pills ;  to  horses  in  ball  with  calomel  and  aloes,  if  purga- 
tion is  desired ;  or  dissolved  in  liquor  potassse  and  diluted 
with  water. 

Uses. — Podophyllin  is  particularly  indicated  as  a  cholo- 
gogue purgative  in  constipation  associated  with  jaundice  and 
hepatic  disorders.  The  result  of  its  action  is  said  to  be 
more  favorable  when  the  faecal  discharges  are  dark  colored, 
whereas  calomel  is  more  successful  if  the  evacuations  are  of 
a  light  hue.  Diarrhoea,  with  frequent  watery  discharges, 
and  vomiting  in  dogs,  due  to  atonic  dyspepsia  and  a  torpid 
liver,  may  be  relieved  by  podophyllin. 


SECTION  XII.— TANNIC  ACID  AND  DEUGS 
CONTAINING  IT. 

Galla.     Nutgall.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Galls,  E.;  gallae,  P.G.;  noix  de  galle,  galle  de 
chene,  Fr.;  gallapfel,  G. 

An  excresence  on  Quercus  lusitanica  Lamarck  (nat.  ord. 
Cupuliferse),  caused  by  the  punctures  and  deposited  ova  of 


564  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

Cynips  Gallse  tinctoiiae  Olivier  (class  Insecta ;  order  Hymen- 
optera). 

Hohitat. — Levant. 

Description. — Subglobular,  1  or  2  Cm.  in  diameter,  more 
or  less  tuberculated  above,  otherwise  smooth,  heavy,  hard  ; 
often  with  a  circular  hole  near  the  middle  communicating 
with  the  central  cavity;  blackish  olive-green  or  blackish- 
gray  ;  fracture  granuhir,  grayish ;  iu  the  centre  a  cavity  con- 
taining either  the  partly  developed  insect,  or  pulverulent 
remains  left  by  it ;  nearly  inodorous ;  taste  strongly  astrin- 
gent. Light,  spongy,  and  whitish-colored  nutgall  should  be 
rejected. 

Constituents. — 1,  (gallo)  tannic  acid,  60  per  cent.;  2,  gallic 
acid,  2-3  per  cent.;  3,  sugar ;  4,  resin. 

PREPARATION. 

Unguentum  Oallce.    Nutgall  Ointment.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Nutgall,  20;  benzoinated  lard,  80.     (U.  S.  P.) 

AciDUM  TA.NNICUM.     Tannic  Acid.     HC14H9O9. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Acidum  gallo-tannicum,  tanninum,  tannin, 
digallic  acid,  E.;  acid  tannique,  tannin,  Fr.;  gerbsaure, 
tannin,  G. 

An  organic  acid  obtained  from  nutgall. 

Derivation. — Powdered  nutgall  is  exposed  to  damp  air 
for  48  hours.  It  is  then  treated  with  water  and  ether.  The 
water  dissolves  tannic  acid ;  the  ether  removes  gallic  acid, 
coloring  matters  and  impurities.  The  mixture  is  filtered  and 
allowed  to  stand,  when  the  lower  aqueous  layer  yields  tannic 
acid  on  evaporation. 

Properties.  —  A  light  yellowish,  amorphous  powder, 
usually  in  the  form  of  glistening  scales  or  spongy  masses ; 
odorless,  or  having  a  faint,  characteristic  odor,  and  a  strongly 
astringent  taste  ;  gradually  turning  darker  when  exposed  to 
air  and  light.     Soluble  in  about  1  part  of  water,  and  in  0.6 


TANNIC  ACID  565 

part  of  alcohol ;  also  in  1  part  of  glycerin,  with  the  interven- 
tion of  moderate  heat ;  freely  soluble  in  diluted  alcohol ; 
sparingly  in  absolute  alcohol ;  almost  insoluble  in  absolute 
ether,  chloroform,  benzol  or  benzin. 

Incompatihles. — Alkaloids,  alkalies,  mineral  acids,  silver, 
ferric,  lead  and  antimony  salts,  gelatin  and  emulsions. 

Dose.—U.  &  C,  3ss.-5ss.  (2.-15.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ss.-i. 
(2.-4);  D.,  gr.i-xv.  (.06-1.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Collodium  Stypticum.    Styptic  Collodion.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Tannic  acid,  20;  alcohol,  5;  ether,  25;  collodion,  to  100.    Made  by 
solution. 

Unguentum  Acidi  Tannici.    Ointment  of  Tannic  Acid.    (U.  S.  P.) 
Tannic  acid,  20;  benzoinated  lard,  80. 

Olyceritum  Acidi  Tannici.    Glycerite  of  Tannic  Acid. 
(U.  S.  &B.  P.) 
Tannic  acid,  20;  glycerin,  80.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Administration. — Tannic  acid  is  given  in  solution  in 
aromatic  waters,  alcohol,  syrup,  wine,  glycerin,  and  water; 
also  it  is  exhibited  in  powder.  The  drug  is  used  externally 
in  powder,  ointment,  glycerite,  and  lotion.  Suppositories 
containing  tannic  acid  are  sometimes  introduced  into  the 
rectum. 

Action  External. — Tannic  acid  coagulates  albumin,  gela- 
tin, and  fibrin.  It  has  little  effect  upon  the  unbroken  skin, 
but  when  applied  to  a  raw  surface  or  mucous  membrane,  it 
coagulates  and  dries  secretion,  and  so  fills  up  the  njouths  of 
glands,  making  the  tissues  harder,  denser,  and  drier.  Tannic 
acid  causes  a  species  of  "tanning"  compatible  with  life,  by 
occasioning  coagulation  of  the  interstitial  fluid  in  the  tissues, 
abstraction  of  moisture,  and  contraction  of  the  cells  of  the 
part.  It  is  the  most  important  astringent  principle  contained 
in  vegetable  drugs.  Tannic  acid  is,  moreover,  a  local  styptic 
or  haemostatic  in  arresting  haemorrhage  by  contraction  of 
the  smooth  muscles  of  the  vessel  walls,  by  coagulation  of  the 
blood,  and  constriction  of  the  tissues  surrounding  the  blood 


566  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

vessels.     The  production  of  vascular  contraction  is  denied 
by  some  experimenters,  but  this  statement  is  not  substan- 
tiated.    Tannic  acid,  although  a  slight  local  irritant  to  raw 
surfaces,  exerts  a  depressing  action  upon  the  sensory  nerve 
endings,  and  is  essentially  a  sedative  in  inflammatory  con- 
ditions by  causing  ischaemia.     There  are  several  kinds  of 
tannic  acid,  possessing  slightly  different  chemical  and  physio- 
logical  properties.     The    official    tannic  acid  —  gallotannic 
acid — is  contained  in  nutgall  and  oak  bark,  while  another 
variety — catechutannic  acid — is  found  iu  kino,  catechu,  etc. 
Action  Internal — Tannic  acid  dries  the  mouth  by  closure 
of  glandular  (mucous)  ducts  with  (coagulated  secretion,  and 
bv  constriction  of  the  surrounding  parts.    It  lessens  the  flow 
of  mucus  and  of  the  digestive  juices  in  the  stomach  and 
intestines  by  the  same  process.     The  drug  therefore  inter- 
feres with  digestion  for  this  reason,  and  also  because  it  pre- 
cipitates pepsin  ;  so  that  tannic  acid  should  not  be  given 
after  eating.     Moreover,  the  astringent  action  is  arrested  in 
the  stomach  by  combination  with  albuminous  and  gelatinous 
material.     Large   doses   irritate    the  alimentary  canal    and 
may  create  vomiting  and  diarrhoea.    Tannic  acid  is  converted 
into  gallic  acid  in  the  bowels  and  is  absorbed  and  eliminated 
in  the  urine  as  gallic  and  pyrogallic  acids.     Gallic  acid  does 
not   coagulate   albumin   or   gelatin   and   has  a  very  feeble 
astringent  action,  so  that  tannic  acid  should  always  be  used 
for    a     local   effect.     The    remote    astringent   influence   of 
tannic  acid  (in  the  form  of  gallic  acid)  is  slight,  but  gallic 
acid  is  preferable  when  an  astringent  action  on  the  tissues  of 
the  body  is  desirable,  since  it  is  less  irritating  to  the  mucous 
membrane  of  the  digestive  organs.     Catechu  and  kino  are 
often  chosen  in  place  of  tannic   acid   in   the  treatment  of 
diarrhoea,  because  they  are  less  soluble  (than  tannic  acid) 
and  the  contained  catechutannic  acid  comes  in  contact  with 
the   intestinal  mucous  membrane  for  a  longer  time.     The 
salts  of  tannic  acid  (tannates)  are  not  astringent. 

Uses  External. — Tannic  acid  is  a  valuable  astringent  in  a 
great  variety  of  local  inflammatory  lesi<ms.     In  the  form  of 


GALLIC   ACID  567 

the  glycerite,  tannic  acid  may  be  applied  advantageously  to 
the  skin  in  moist  eczema,  and  as  a  remedy  for  frost  bites. 
It  is  a  useful  application  for  sore  and  cracked  teats.  The 
mouth  is  painted  with  the  glycerite  for  the  cure  of  ulcerative 
or  apthous  stomatitis.  The  same  preparation  is  injected  into 
the  ear  in  otorrhoea  of  dogs,  and  into  the  vagina  to  arrest 
vaginitis  and  leucorrhoea.  Pure  tannic  acid  is  an  excellent 
•agent  when  dusted  upon  raw  surfaces,  ulcers,  and  sores  ;  and 
to  stop  bleeding  in  slight  wounds.  An  aqueous  solution  is 
useful  in  leucorrhoea  (2-5  per  cent.),  in  eczema  (5-10  per 
cent.),  as  a  high  enema  in  dysentery  (1  per  cent.),  and  to  kill 
ascarides  (1-2  per  cent.)  in  the  rectum.  A  one  per  cent, 
aqueous  solution  is  sometimes  utilized  as  an  iuhalation  in 
subacute  laryngitis,  tracheitis,  and  bronchitis.  Powdered 
opium  and  nutgall  ointment  (1-14),  or  glycerite  of  tannin, 
are  serviceable  in  haemorrhoids  and  rectal  fissures,  ulcers, 
or  prolapse  of  the  rectum. 

Uses  Interned. — Tannic  acid  is  exhibited  in  powder  or 
solution  to  arrest  bleeding  in  the  stomach.  It  is  a  good 
astringent  in  diarrhoea  and  haemostatic  in  intestinal  haemor- 
rhage, given  in  ball  or  pill,  and  often  with  opium.  Tannic 
acid  is  an  antidote  to  alkaloids,  metallic  salts,  and  tartar 
emetic,  forming  comparatively  insoluble  tannates,  which 
should  be  removed  if  possible  by  evacuation  of  the  stomach. 

AciDUM  Gallicum.     Gallic  Acid.     HC^H.Os  4-  HjO. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym, — Acide  gallique,  Fr.;  gallussaure,  G. 

An  organic  acid,  usually  prepared  from  tannic  acid. 

Derivation. — Made  by  the  exposure  of  paste  of  nutgall 
and  water  to  the  air  for  a  month,  when  tannic  acid  under- 
goes hydration  (tannic  acid)  HC,,HA  +  H,0  =  2  HC.HA 
(gallic  acid).  The  liquid  is  then  expressed  from  the  paste 
^  and  the  residue  is  boiled  with  distilled  water  and  filtered, 
when  hot,  through  animal  charcoal.  Gallic  acid  crystallizes 
ont  from  the  filtrate. 


568  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

Properties. — White,  or  pale  fawn-colored,  silky,  inter- 
laced needles  or  triclinic  prisms;  odorless;  having  an 
astringent  or  slightly  acidulous  taste  ;  permanent  in  the  air. 
Soluble  in  ]  00  parts  of  water,  and  in  5  parts  of  alcohol ;.  in 
40  parts  of  ether,  and  in  12  parts  of  glycerin.  Very  slightly 
soluble  in  chloroform,  benzol,  or  benzin. 

IncompatiUes. — Metallic  salts  and  spirit  of  nitrous  ether. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  3ii.-5ss.  (8.-15.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ss.-i.. 
(2.-4.);  D.,  gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3). 

PREPARATIONS- 

Unguentuvi  Oallce  (1-4).    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Unguentum  Oallce  Cum  Opio.     (B.  P.) 

Action  and  Uses. — Since  tannic  acid  is  absorbed  as  gallic 
acid,  and  since  the  latter  drug  is  less  irritating,  it  follows 
that  gallic  acid  is  preferable  when  it  is  proposed  to  exert  an 
astringent  effect  through  the  circulation.  Gallic  acid  is  a 
feeble  local  astringent,  and  therefore  tannic  acid  is  always  a 
better  agent  for  topical  use.  The  remote  astringent  action 
of  gallic  acid  is  questionable,  but  successful  results  are 
alleged  to  have  followed  its  administration  in  the  treatment 
of  haemorrhage  from  the  lungs,  uterus  and  kidneys,  and  in 
polyuria,  albuminuria,  bronchorrhcea,  leucorrhoea,  and 
excessive  sweating. 

Ergot  has  been  generally  considered  superior  to  gallic 
acid  for  the  purpose  of  producing  general  constriction  of  the 
smaller  vessels,  and  arrest  of  internal  haemorrhage. 

Pyrogallol.      Pyrogallol.     CeH,  (OH),.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Pyrogallic  acid. 

Derivation. — A  triatomic  phenol  obtained  chiefly  by  the 
dry  distillation  of  gallic  acid,  HCHsO^  =  G,^,  (OH),  -f  CO^. 

Properties. — Light,  white,  shining  laminae,  or  fine  needles; 
odorless,  and  having  a  bitter  taste ;  acquiring  a  gray  or 
darker  tint  on  exposure  to  the  air  and  light.  Soluble  in  1.7 
parts  of  water,  and  in  1  part  of  alcohol ;  also  soluble  in  1.2 
parts  of  ether. 


WHITE   OAK  569 

Actions  and  Uses. — Pyrogallol  is  an  excellent  agent  for 
the  treatment  of  chronic  psoriasis  and  for  ringworm.  An 
ointment  containing  an  amount  of  pyrogallol,  varying  from 
gr.x.  to  3  i.  to  the  ounce  of  lard,  is  commonly  employed. 
Toxic  symptoms  may  follow  its  extensive  application. 


QuERCUS  Alba.     White  Oak.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Quercus  cortex,  B.P.;  cortex  quercus,  ecorce 
de  chene,  Fr.;  eichenrinde,  G. 

The  bark  of  Quercus  alba  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Cupuliferse). 

Habitat. — North  America,  in  woods. 

Description. — In  nearly  flat  pieces,  deprived  of  the  corky 
layer,  about  5  Mm.  thick;  pale  brown ;  inner  surface  with 
short,  sharp  longitudinal  ridges;  tough  ;  of  a  course,  fibrous 
fracture ;  a  faint,  tan-like  odor,  and  a  strongly  astringent 
taste.  As  met  with  in  the  shops,  it  is  usually  in  irregularly 
coarse,  fibrous  powder,  which  does  not  tinge  the  saliva 
yellow. 

Constituents. — 1,  quercitannic  acid,  6  to  11  per  cent ;  2,  a 
bitter  principle,  quercin ;  3,  resin  ;  4,  a  sugar,  quercite. 

Dose.— H.,  3  ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  C,  3  i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw., 
3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  D.,  gr.x.-xxx.  (.6-2.). 

Action  and  Uses. — White  oak  bark  is  identical  in  action 
with  tannic  acid,  but  the  latter  is  preferable  for  internal  use. 
Oak  bark  is  a  cheap  substitute  for  tannic  acid  applied 
externally  in  poultices,  infusions,  and  decoctions,  as  an 
astringent.  It  is  administered  internally  in  infusion,  or 
decoction  (1-8),  in  diarrhoea  and  dysentery.  The  infusion 
may  be  given  in  gruel  and  combined  with  giuger,  opium 
and  alcohol  in  the  treatment  of  "  scouring  "  in  foals  and 
<jalves. 

Catechu.     Catechu.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Catechu  nigrum,  terra  japonica,  cutch,  E.; 
cachou,  Fr.;  katechu,  pegucatechu,  G. 


570  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

An  extract  prepared  from  the  wood  of  Acacia  Catechu 
(Linne  filius)  "Willdenow  (nat.  ord.  Leguminosse). 

Habitat — India  and  Africa. 

properties. — In  irregular  masses,  containing  fragments  of 
leaves,  dark  brown,  brittle,  somewhat  porous  and  glossy 
when  freshly  broken.  It  is  nearly  inodorous,  and  has  a 
strongly  sweetish  and  astringent  taste. 

Co7istitu€nfs. — 1,  catechutannic  acid  (35-40  per  cent.)  is 
the  active  principle  ;  it  is  converted  into  the  isomeric  inac- 
tive catechuic  acid,  or  catechin  (CoiHjoOg  +  5  HjO),  by 
the  saliva  and  by  boiling,  a  red  color  being  developed. 
There  is  also  (2)  catechu-red. 

Incompatibles. — Metallic  salts,  alkalies,  and  gelatin. 

Dosc—B.,,  1  ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  C,  3  i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw., 
3i-ii.  (4-8.);  D.,  gr.v.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Tinctura  Catechu  Composita.    Compound  Tincture  of  Catechu. 

(U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  of  catechu,  100;  cassia  cinnamon,  50;  with 
diluted  alcohol  to  make  1000. 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  3  i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Foals,  Calves  and  Sheep,  ^  ss.-i. 
(15.-30);  D.,  3  88.-ii.  (2.-8). 

Tinctura  Catechu.     (B.  P.) 
Same  dose  as  compound  tincture. 
Pulvls  Catechu  Compositus.     (Kino,  Rhatany  and  Catechu.    B.  P.) 
Dose. — Same  as  catechu. 

Administration, — The  compound  tincture,  or  an  infusion 
(made  by  pouring  boiling  water  over  catechu,  digesting  for 
an  hour,  and  straining),  and  the  powder,  are  employed  inter- 
nally. The  powder  is  given  in  flour  gruel.  The  powder,  or 
an  infusion  of  any  strength  may  be  applied  externally. 

Catechu  is  represented  in  the  B.P.  by  catechu  pallidum,  an 
extract  of  the  leaves  and  young  shoots  of  Uncaria  Gambler, 
Eastern  Archipelago.  It  occurs  in  brown  cubes,  about  an 
inch  square,  and  possesses  a  bitter,  astringent  taste.     It  is 


KINO  671 

employed  in  the  same  doses  and  for  the  same  purposes  as 
catechu. 

Action  and  Uses.— The  action  of  catechu  is  exactly  like 
that  of  tannic  acid.  The  latter  is  preferable  for  external 
use  on  account  of  its  greater  solubility  and  astringency. 
Catechu  acts  more  slowly  and  persistently  in  the  digestive 
tract,  by  virtue  of  its  tardy  solubility,  and  is  a  useful  remedy 
in  diarrhoea,  particularly  in  that  of  a  watery  or  serous 
nature.  It  is  frequently  prescribed  in  this  disorder  with 
other  synergistic  agents,  as  opium, ginger  and  chalk.  Finlay 
Dun  recommends  the  following  combination :  Catechu,  pre- 
pared chalk,  and  ginger,  each  three  ounces  ;  powdered  opium, 
six  drachms.  Divide  into  eight  balls,  for  horses;  into  six 
doses  suspended  in  starch  gruel  for  cattle  ;  and  into  eight  or 
ten  doses  (given  in  gruel)  for  calves  or  sheep.  The  com- 
pound tincture  of  catechu  with  laudanum  is  an  equally 
suitable  combination  for  all  animals  with  diarrhoea,  given  in 
dronch.  If  there  is  much  mucus  in  the  faecal  discharges, 
showing  a  catarrhal  state  of  the  intestinal  mucous  membrane, 
it  is  advisable  to  order  oil,  salts,  or  calomel  before  locking 
up  the  bowels  with  an  astringent.  Catechu  has  been  given 
internally  in  dysentery,  and  to  stop  uterine  and  other 
haemorrhages. 

Kino.    Kino.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

The  inspissated  juice  of  Pterocarpus  Marsupium  Kox- 
burgh  (nat.  ord.  Leguminosse). 

Habitat. — East  Indies.  Kino,  indigenous  in  the  West 
Indies,  is  occasionally  imported  here. 

Properties. — Small,  angular,  dark  brownish-red,  shining 
pieces ;  brittle,  in  thin  layers,  ruby-red  and  transparent ; 
inodorous,  very  astringent  and  sweetish,  tinging  the  saliva 
deep  red.  Soluble  in  alcohol ;  nearly  insoluble  in  ether,  and 
only  slightly  soluble  in  cold  water. 

Constituents. — The  most  important  is  (1)  kinotannic  acid 
(CigHigOg,  75  per  cent.),  resembling  catechu-tannic  acid,  but 


572  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

not  identical  with  it.  There  are  also  :  2,  kinoin,  a  crystal- 
line, neutral  substance  ;  3,  pyrocatechin,  CgH^  (0H)2 ;  4, 
gum  ;  5,  pectin ;  6,  kino-red,  formed  by  oxidation  from  kino- 
tannic  acid. 

Incompatihles.  —  Mineral  acids,  metallic  salts,  strong 
solutions  of  alkaloids,  alkalies,  and  gelatin. 

i>ose.-H.,  3  ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  C,  §  i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw., 
3  i.-ii.  (4-8.);  D.,  gr.v.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

PREFAB  A.TIONS. 

Tinctura  Kino.    Tincture  of  Kino.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Prepared  by  maceration  and  filtration  of  kino,  100,  with  glycerin, 
150;  and  wat^r,  200;  and  the  addition  of  alcohol  to  make  1000.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.  &  C,  ^  i.-ii.  (30.  60.);  Foals,  Calves  and  Sheep,  §  ss.-i. 
(15.-30.);  D.,  3  ss.-ii.  (2.-8.). 

Pulvis  Kino  Compositua.    Compound  Powder  of  Kino.     (B.  P.) 
(Pulv.  cinnamon,  4  grs,;  kino.  15  grs.) 
Dose. — Dog,  1  powder;  Foals  and  Calves,  4  powders. 
Administration. — Kino  may  be  given  in  ball,  powder,  infusion 
(1-32),  or  tincture. 

Action  and  Z7se.s.— The  physiological  actions  and  thera- 
peutics of  kino  are  nearly  similar  to  those  of  catechu.  The 
gum  and  pectin  contained  in  kino  renders  its  effect  milder 
and  more  soothing  to  mucous  membranes.  Aqueous  solu- 
tions gelatinize  on  standing,  on  account  of  tbe  gum  in  them. 
The  drug  is  prescribed  chiefly  in  serous  diarrhoea,  and  also 
is  occasionally  exhibited  in  dysentery  and  internal  haemor- 
rhages. 

Krameria.     Krameria. 

Synonym.  —  Kramerise  radix,  B.P. ;  radix  rhatanhiae, 
rhatany  root,  E. ;  radix  ratanhse,  P.G.  ;  ratanhia,  Fr.; 
ratanhawurzel,  G. 

The  root  of  Krameria  triandra  Ruiz  et  Pavon,  and  of 
Krameria  Ixina  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Polygaleae). 

Habitat — Peru  and  Bolivia. 

Description. — From  1  to  3  Cm.  thick,  knotty  and  several 


KRAMERIA  573 

headed  above,  branched  below,  the  branches  long ;  bark 
smooth  or  in  thinner  pieces  ;  scaly,  deep-rust  brown  ;  1  to  2 
Mm.  thick  ;  very  astringent ;  inodorous ;  wood  pale  brown- 
ish-red, tough,  with  fine  medullary  rays  nearly  tasteless. 
The  root  of  Krameria  Ixina  is  less  knotty  and  more  slender, 
and  has  a  dark  purplish  brown  bark  about  3  Mm.  thick. 

Constituents. — The  chief  principle  is  (1)  kramero- tannic 
acid,  C5jH,P2i.  about  20  per  cent.  There  are  also  :  2,  rha- 
taniu  ;  3,  rhatanic-red  (CogHjoOn),  the  coloring  matter. 

Incompatibles. — Metallic  salts,  alkalies,  gelatin,  and  lime 
water. 

Dose.—R.,  5ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  C,  5i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  Sh.  &Sw., 
3  i.-ii.  (4-8.);  D.,  gr.v.-xxx.  (.3-2.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Kramerice  Fluidum.    Fluid  Extract  of  Krameria. 

(U.S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  krameria  with  glycerin  and 
diluted  alcohol,  and  evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 
Dose. — Same  as  krameria. 

Extractum  Kramerice.     Extract  of  Krameria.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  filtration,  and  evaporation  of  a,  cold,  aqueous  infusion  to 

dryness. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  3  ii.-iii.  (8.-12.);  Sh.  &Sw.,  gr.xxx.-xl.  (2.-26.);  D., 

gr.v.-x.  (.3-.6). 

Tinctura  Kramerice.    Tincture  of  Krameria.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  krameria,  200;  with  diluted 

alcohol  to  1000.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose—U.  &  C,  §  i.-ii.  (30.-60.)     Foals,  Calves  and  Sheep,  §  ss.-i. 

<15.-30.);  D.,  3ss.-ii.  (2.-8.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Krameria  and  its  preparations  nearly 
resemble  catechu  and  kino  in  all  respects  as  astringents. 
The  fluid  extract  is  a  serviceable  preparation  in  watery 
diarrhoea,  and  in  arresting  haemorrhage  from  the  stomsCch 
and  bowels.  An  infusion  (1-20,  B.P.)  is  an  efficient  remedy 
for  leucorrhoea  when  injected  into  the  vagina.  The  powdered 
extract  is  blown  into  the  nostrils,  or  applied  to  the  rectum 
to  stop  bleeding  in  these  parts. 


574  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

H^MATOXYLON.     Ilaematoxylon. 

Synonym,  —  Haematoxyli  lignum,  B.P  ;  logwood,  E. ; 
lignum  campecliianum,  P.G.;  lignum  coeriileum — bois  de 
campeche,  bois  d'inde,  bois  de  sang,  Fr. ;  blauliolz,  campe- 
cheholz,  G. 

The  heart  wood  of  Haematoxylon  Campechianum  Linne 
(nat.  ord.  Leguminosae). 

Habitat. — Central  America ;  naturalized  in  the  "West 
Indies. 

Description. — Heavy,  hard,  externally  purplish-black, 
internally  brownish-red,  and  marked  with  irregular,  concen- 
tric circles,  splitting  irregularly;  odor  faint,  agreeable  ;  taste 
sweetish,  astringent ;  when  chewed  it  colors  the  saliva  dark 
pink.  Logwood  is  generally  met  with  in  the  form  of  small 
chips  or  coarse  powder  of  a  dark  brownish-red  color ;  often 
with  a  greenish  lustre. 

Ccmstitiients. — The  most  important  is  (1)  tannic  acid. 
There  are  also :  2,  haematoxylin,  C^^^fl^  (12  per  cent.),  a 
coloring  matter,  but  in  nearly  colorless  crystals  when  pure. 
It  turns  red  on  exposure  to  light,  and  solutions  are  used  to 
stain  pathological  bpecimens  ;  3,  haematein,  C^^^fi^,  formed 
from  haematoxylin  by  oxidation,  and  possessing  a  green, 
metallic  lustre. 

Incompatibles. — Lime  water,  and  tartar  emetic,  with 
metallic  salts,  forms  a  blue  compound. 

PREPARATION. 

Extractuvi  Hoematoxyli.    Extract  of  Heematoxylon.    (U.  S.  &B.  P.) 

Made  by  boiling  in  water,  straining,  and  evaporating  to  dryness. 
Dose.— H.  &  C,    3ss.-iv.  (3.-15.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,    3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.);  D., 
gr.v.-xv.  (.3-1.). 

A  non-official  fluid  extract  is  often  found  in  commerce. 
Dose. — Three  times  that  of  extract. 

Action  and  Uses. — Haematoxylon  is  a  mild  astringent, 
coloring  the  faeces  and  urine  red  during  its  elimination.  The 
extract  is  given  in  diarrhoea  of  young  animals,  and  may  be 
combined  for  this  purpose  with   aromatic  sulphuric  acid. 


HAMAMELIS  575 


giijger,  chalk  and  opium.  It  is  also  employed  internally  in 
dysentery,  atonic  indigestion,  and  in  leucorrhoea.  The 
decoction  (1-16,  B.P.)  may  be  exhibited  in  Oss.-i.  doses  to 
the  larger  animals  ;  in  §  i.-ii.  doses  to  smaller  patients. 


Hamamelis.     Hamamelis.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym.  — Witch-hazel. 

The  leaves  of  Hamamelis  virginiana  Linne  (nat.  ord. 
Hamamelacese),  collected  in  autumn. 

Description.  —  Short,  petiolate,  about  10  Cm.  long, 
obovate  or  oval,  slightly  heart-shaped  and  oblique  at  the 
base,  sinuate-toothed,  thickish,  nearly  smooth;  inodorous; 
taote  astringent  and  bitter. 

Constituents. — The  most  important  principle  is  (1)  tannic 
acid,  8  per  cent ;  there  are  also  :  (2)  a  bitter  substance,  and 
(3)  a  resin. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Hamamelidis  Fluidum.    Fluid  Extract  of  Hamamelis^ 

(U.  S.  P.) 
Extractum  Hamamelidis  Liquidum.     (B.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol,  glycerin  and 
water,  and  evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug.  (U.  S.  P.) 
Dose.— H.&C,  §  i.-ii.  (30.-60.);  D.,  3  ss.-ii.  (2.-8  ). 

Action  and  Uses. — Hamamelis  is  apparently  physiologi- 
cally inert,  as  shown  by  experiments  on  healthy  animals.  It 
nevertheless  possesses  considerable  medicinal  virtue  as  an 
astringent  and  styptic.  Witch-hazel  is  a  valuable  agent 
applied  externally,  to  stop  venous  oozing  in  wounds,  and  to 
reduce  swelling  and  pain  of  bruises  and  sores.  The  fluid 
extract  may  be  diluted  with  8,  or  less,  parts  of  water,  for 
these  purposes ;  or  the  B.P.  ointment  (1-10)  maybe  employed. 
Hamamelis  is  useful  in  diarrhoea  and  mucous  discharges.  It 
arrests  haemorrhage  from  the  uterus,  kidneys,  lungs  and 
digestive  tract ;  sometimes  in  a  surprising  manner.  The 
fluid  extract  is  a  successful  haemostatic  in  bleeding  from  the 


676  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

bladder  or  rectum  (piles)  wheu  injected  (1-8)  into  these 
parts.  It  lessens  soreness  and  swelling  of  blind  piles — with 
an  equal  part  of  glycerin  and  a  little  starch — and  the  same 
preparation  is  beneficial  in  eczema,  pruritus,  and  cutaneous 
irritations.  The  clear,  colorless,  proprietary  extracts  (as 
Pond's)  are  often  more  efficient  externally  and  internally  (in 
the  same  doses)  than  the  official  extract. 


SECTION  XIII.— VEGETABLE  DEMULCENTS. 

Oleum  Oliv^.    Olive  Oil.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Sweet  oil,  E. ;  oleum  olivarum,  P.G. ;  huile 
d'olive,  Fr.;  oilvenol,  G. 

A  fixed  oil  expressed  from  the  ripe  fruit  of  Olea  Euro- 
pcea  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Oleacese). 

Habitat. — Southern  Europe  and  Asia. 

Properties.  — A  pale  yellow,  or  light  greenish-yellow, 
oily  liquid,  having  a  slight  peculiar  odor,  and  a  nutty  olea- 
ginous taste,  with  a  faintly  acrid  after-taste.  Spec.  gr.  0.915- 
0.918.  Very  sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol,  but  readily  soluble 
in  ether,  chloroform,  or  carbon  disulphide.  Very  frequently 
adulterated  with  cotton  seed,  or  other  seed  oils,  which  prob- 
ably are  of  equal  medicinal  value,  however. 

Constitmnts.—l,  olein,  C3H5  (C,8H3302)3,  72  per  cent.,  a 
fluid  oil,  a  combination  of  oleic  acid  (HC18H33O2)  and  glyceryl ; 
2,  palmitin,  C3H5  (C,6H3i02)3,  about  28  per  cent.,  a  combina- 
tion of  palmitic  acid  (HCigHaOs)  and  glyceryl ;  and  (3) 
cholesterin  (CjeH^^O). 

i>os6.— Laxative— H.&C.,Oi.-ii.  (500.-1000.);  D.,  5  ii.-iv. 
(60.-120.). 

Oleum  Gossypii  Seminis.     Cotton  Seed  Oil.     (U.  S.  P.) 

A  fixed  oil  expressed  from  the  seed  of  Gossypium  her- 
baceum  Linne  and  of  other  species  of  Gossypium. (nat.  ord 
Malvaceae),  and  subsequently  purified. 


SOAP  577 

Habitat— S.  United  States  and  other  semi-tropical 
countries ;  cultivated. 

Properties. — A  pale  yellow,  oily  liquid,  without  odor,  and 
having  a  bland,  nut-like  taste.  Spec.  gr.  0.920-0.950.  Very 
sparingly  soluble  in  alcohol,  but  readily  soluble  in  ether, 
chloroform,  or  carbon  disulphide. 

Constituents. — 1,  olein  ;  2,  palmitin ;  3,  coloring  matt.er. 

Dose. — Same  as  that  of  olive  oil. 

Action  and  Uses. — Olive  oil  is  in  common  use  as  an 
emollient  in  burns  and  skin  irritation.  It  assists  in  the  per- 
formance of  massage  for  sprains  and  bruises.  Cotton  seed 
oil  has  superseded  it  in  liniments,  as  a  matter  of  economy. 
Administered  internally,  sweet  oil  (with  an  equal  part  of 
castor  oil)  is  a  useful  laxative  for  dogs.  Linseed  oil  is  more 
frequently  given  to  the  larger  animals.  An  enema  of  ^  pint, 
or  more,  of  olive  oil  is  serviceable  in  softening  hard  faecal 
masses  in  dogs,  and  should  be  followed  by  the  use  of  warm 
soap  suds. 

Sweet  oil  is  a  food,  but  is  rarely  used  as  such.  Like 
other  bland  oils,  it  improves  the  nutrition  of  the  bronchial 
mucous  membrane  in  subacute  or  chronic  bronchitis,  and  is 
of  considerable  benefit  in  these  disorders,  but  inferior  to  cod 
liver  oil  or  linseed  oil.  Olive  oil  is  an  efficient  demulcent  in 
inflamed  conditions  of  the  alimentary  tract,  and  in  poisoning 
by  irritants.  Large  quantities  form  soap-like  masses,— with 
the  alkaline  intestinal  juices, — which  have  been  mistaken 
for  gall  stones.  Cotton  seed  oil  is  of  equal  therapeutic 
value  with  sweet  oil. 

Sapo.     Soap. 

Synonym. — Sapo  duris,  B.P.;  hard  soap,  white  castile 
soap,  E.;  savon,  Fr.;  seife,  G. 

Derivation. — Soap  is  made  by  boiling  olive  oil  with  a 
solution  of  caustic  soda,  C3H5(Ci8H3302)3  (olein)  +  3  NaOH  = 
3  NaCi8H3302  (sodium  oleate  or  soap)  +  03X15(011)3  (glycerin). 

Properties. — A  white,  or  whitish  solid,  hard,  yet  easily 
cut  when  fresh ;  having  a   faint,  peculiar   odor  free   from 


578  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

rancidity;  a  disagreeable  alkaline  taste,  and  an  alkaline 
reaction.  Soluble  in  water  and  in  alcohol;  more  readily 
with  the  aid  of  heat. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Linimentum  Saponis.    Soap  Liniment.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Opodeldoc.     Lin.  sapo.  camph. 

Soap,  70;  camphor,  45  ;  oil  of  rosemary,  10  ;  alcohol,  750  ;  water  to 
make  1000.     Made  by  solution,  agitation  and  filtration.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Emplastrum  Saponis.    Soap  Plaster.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Soap,  100;  lead  plaster,  900;  made  by  solution  in  water  and  evapor- 
ation. 

Sapo  Mollis.    Soft  Soap.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym, — Potassium  oleate,  sapo  viridis,  green  soap. 

A  soap  prepared  from  potassa  and  a  fixed  oil. 

Derivation. — Heat  linseed  oil,  400,  to  140°  F.  Dissolve 
potassa,  90,  in  water,  450 ;  add  alcohol,  40 ;  and  stir  the 
mixture  into  the  oil  at  the  same  temperature  until  it  is 
soluble  in  boiling  water  without  the  separation  of  oily  drops. 

Properties. — A  soft,  unctuous  mass,  of  a  yellowish-brown 
or  brownish-yellow  color.  Soluble  in  about  5  parts  of  hot 
water ;  also  in  2  parts  of  alcohol  without  leaving  more  than 
3  per  cent,  of  insoluble  residue. 

PREPARATION. 

Linimentum  Saponis  Mollis.     Liniment  of  Soft  Soap.     (U.  S.  P.) 

/9?/non^m.— Tinctura  saponis  viridis. 

Soft  soap,  650;  oil  of  lavender  flowers,  20;  alcohol,  300;  water  to 
make  1000.    Made  by  solution  and  filtra,tion. 

Castile  soap  is  the  best  example  of  a  pure  soap.  Mot- 
tled castile  soap  contains  iron  as  the  coloring  matter.  The 
household  "  soft  soap  "  is  not  sapo  mollis,  but  is  made  of  all 
kinds  of  rancid  fats  and  is  generally  unfit  for  medicinal  use. 
Yellow  laundry  soap  owes  its  color  to  resin.  Super-fatted 
soaps  are  of  neutral  reaction  and  unirritating.  They  are 
used  as  a  basis  for  medicinal  soaps  containing  tar,  carbolic 
acid,  etc. 


SOAP  579 

Action  and  Uses. — Most  soaps  are  alkaline.  Soap  is  a 
detergent  or  cleansing  agent.  The  lather  mechanically 
removes  dirt,  while  the  alkalinity  assists  in  the  removal  of 
grease,  dead  epidermis,  and  sebaceous  matter  from  the  skin. 
The  caustic  alkali  contained  in  soap  relieves  itching  and  is 
stimulating  to  the  skin  ;  so  much  so,  that  cheap  soaps  are 
harmful  in  normal  conditions  of  the  integument. 

Liniment  of  soft  soap  is  frequently  employed  in  chronic 
eczema  and  psoriasis,  to  remove  scales  and  crusts  ;  to  stimu- 
late the  parts ;  and  to  quiet  itching.  It  should  be  rubbed 
smartly  into  the  skin,  washed  off,  and  followed  by  the  appli- 
cation of  a  suitable  ointment.  Gauze  saturated  with  soap 
suds  (soap  suds  poultice)  is  an  excellent  agency  to  cause  the 
exfoliation  of  the  epidermis  in  patches  of  old  scaly  eczema 
and  psoriasis,  when  applied  for  several  hours.  Soft  soap,  oil 
of  cade,  and  alcohol,  equal  parts,  are  recommended  as  a 
useful  preparation  for  the  treatment  of  chronic  eczema  and 
pruritus.  The  application  of  soap  and  water  is  a  necessary 
preliminary  to  the  employment  of  a  vesicating  ointmeut,  or 
parasiticide,  since  it  cleanses  the  skin,  and,  by  removing 
epidermis,  exposes  the  burrows  of  acari  in  mange  and  scab. 
Soap  liniment  is  a  favorite  remedy  for  sprains  and  bruises. 
If  a  more  stimulating  action  is  desirable,  it  is  advisable  to 
combine  oil  of  turpentine  or  water  of  ammonia  with  it.  If 
an  anodyne  effect  is  indicated,  tincture  of  aconite  or  opium 
are  added. 

Chafing  of  the  skin  produced  by  harness,  should  be 
treated  by  washing  the  skin  with  soap  and  water,  and  then 
by  dusting  with  zinc  oxide  and  starch,  equal  parts.  Sapo 
mollis,  together  with  an  equal  amount  of  flour  of  mustard, 
forms  a  most  satisfactory  cleansing  and  disinfectant  mixture 
for  the  hands  of  the  operating  surgeon  when  employed  in 
the  same  manner  as  ordinary  soap.  Soap  may  also  be 
used  as  a  lubricating  agent  for  the  hands  or  instru- 
ments in  making  examinations.  Soap  is  a  useful  excipient 
for  balls,  pills,  and  plasters,  and  it  is  a  constituent  of  lini- 
ments. 


580  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

Soap  is  employed  both  as  a  qualitative  and  quantitive 
test  for  hard  water.  This  contains  salts  of  the  alkaline 
earth  metals,  as  sulphates  and  carbonates  of  magnesium  and 
calcium.  Soap  is  decomposed  by  these  salts,  and  insoluble 
soaps,  i.e.,  calcium  and  magnesium  stearate,  are  precipitated. 
The  free  alkali  of  the  soap  is  then  converted  into  insoluble 
sulphates  and  carbonates.  These  reactions  produce  a  milky 
precipitate  when  a  solution  of  soap  is  added  to  hard 
water. 

Internally  soap  is  an  antacid  and  somewhat  irritating, 
and  may  occasion  vomiting  aud  stimulation  of  intestinal 
peristalsis.  These  actions  are  taken  advantage  of  in  emergen- 
cies,  when  it  may  be  given  to  dogs  as  an  emetic,  or  to  all 
animals  in  poisoning  by  acids.  A  piece  of  soap,  when 
shaped  by  the  hands  into  a  conical  form,  dipped  an  instant 
into  water,  and  introduced  into  the  rectum,  is  one  of  the 
best  agents  for  moving  the  bowels  in  the  case  of  puppies  and 
all  young  animals.  Enemata  of  soap  suds  are  in  every  day 
use.  A  mixture  of  sapo  mollis,  molasses,  and  water,  in  vary- 
ing proportions,  is  a  more  efficient  preparation.  Oil  of 
turpentine  may  be  added  in  flatulence. 

Glycerinum.     Glycerin.     C3H,  (OH),.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym.  —  Glycerine,  E. ;  glycerine,  Fr. ;  glycerin, 
oelsiiss,  G;  glycerinum,  P.G. 

Derivation. — A  liquid  obtained  by  the  decomposition  of 
vegetable  or  animal  fats  or  fixed  oils,  and  containing  not  less 
than  95  per  cent,  of  absolute  glycerin.  It  occurs  as  a  bye- 
product  in  the  manufacture  of  soap,  but  is  made  chiefly  from 
palm  oil  by  the  action  of  superheated  steam  at  a  tempera- 
ture of  about  600°  F. 

Properties. — A  clear,  colorless  liquid,  of  a  thick,  syrupy 
consistence,  oily  to  the  touch,  odorless,  very  sweet  and 
slightly  warm  to  the  taste.  Spec.  gr.  not  less  than  1.250. 
Soluble  in  all  proportions  in  water  or  alcohol ;  also  soluble 
in  a  mixture  of  3  parts  of  alcohol  and  1  part  of  ether,  but 


GLYCERIN  581 

insoluble  in  ether,  chloroform,  carbon  disnlphide,  benzin, 
benzol,  and  fixed  and  volatile  oils.  Reaction  neutral.  Glyc- 
erin is  a  solvent  for  alkaloids,  digestive  ferments,  fixed 
alkalies,  bromine,  iodine,  tannin,  extracts,  salicin,  borax, 
boric  acid,  carbolic  acid,  etc. 

Dose.—K.  &  C,  5i.  (30.);  D.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Glyceritum  Amyli.    Glycerite  of  Starch.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Starch,  10;  water,  10;  glycerin,  80.  Made  by  solution  with  heat. 
There  are  also  official  glycerites  of  carbolic  acid  (1-4),  of  tannic  acid 
(1-4),  of  boroglycerin  (31  per  cent.),  of  hydrastis,  and  of  yolk  of  egg, 
glyceritum  vitelli  or  glyconin  (45  per  cent). 

Suppositoria  Olycerini.    Suppositories  of  Glycerin.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Glycerin,  60  Gm. ;  sodium  carbonate,  3  Gm.  ;  stearic  acid,  5  Gm. 
Made  by  solution  with  heat  and  moulded  into  ten  suppositories  contain- 
ing 6  Gm.  or  3  i.ss.  each. 

Action  External. — Glycerin  is  hydroscopic,  emollient, 
sometimes  parasiticidal,  and  antiseptic.  It  does  not  evaporate 
or  become  rancid.  The  chief  medicinal  value  of  glycerin 
depends  upon  its  affinity  for  water,  and  sliglit  volatility,  so 
that  (in  solution)  it  keeps  moist  the  surface  to  which  it  is 
applied.  Pure  glycerin  is,  however,  slightly  irritant  to  the 
skin  and  may  cause  some  inflammation  of  raw  surfaces  and 
mucous  membranes  on  account  of  withdrawal  of  water  from 
the  tissues.  It  should  therefore  be  diluted  with  water  for 
most  therapeutic  purposes. 

'  Action  Internal.  —  Glycerin   is   absorbed    but   is   only 

slightly  oxidized  in  the  body,  and  is  of  little  value  as  a 
nutritive.  It  may  give  rise  to  a  substance  in  the  urine  which 
reduces  cupric  oxide  and  renders  the  sugar  test  positive.  It 
is  somewhat  antiseptic  in  the  digestive  tract,  and  appears 
to  inhibit  the  formation  of  glycogen  in  the  liver  in  some 
cases  of  glycosuria.  Large  doses  are  slightly  purgative. 
Enormous  quantities  cause  poisoning  in  animals,  with 
the  production  of  hsen^oglobinuria,  muscular  weakness, 
dryness  of  the   mucous   membranes,   collapse,  and  death. 


582  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Large  amounts   injected   into   the   blood   have   occasioned 
convulsions. 

Uses  External.  —  These  are  manifold.  It  is  largely 
employed  in  lotions,  ointments,  and  as  a  vehicle  for  the 
substances  of  which  it  is  a  solvent.  Glycerite  of  starch  is  a 
successful  remedy  for  rough,  dry  skin,  and  scaly  eczema. 
Glycerite  of  carbolic  acid  is  an  appropriate  application  for 
fetid  sores  and  ulcers,  and,  diluted  with  an  equal  part  of 
glycerin,  will  destroy  the  acari  of  mange  and  scab.  It  should 
be  used  with  caution  to  prevent  poisoning.  Glycerite  of 
boroglycerin  is  an  excellent  preparation  for  the  treatment  of 
apthous  stomatitis  and  thrush.  In  dryness  of  the  meatus, 
and  in  canker  of  the  ear  (otorrhoea)  in  dogs,  a  mixture  of 
tincture  of  iodine,  1  part,  and  glycerin,  4  parts,  is  recom- 
mended. Scratches  and  cracked  heels  of  horses,  fissured 
and  excoriated  surfaces,  and  erythema,  are  successfully 
treated  with  the  following  prescription  : 

Tine.  Opii |  i. 

Liq.  Plumbi  Subacetat * |  iv. 

Glycerini ^  ii. 

Aquae ad.  |  viii. 

M. 

S.     Apply  externally. 

Uses  Internal. — Glycerin  is  employed  as  an  exeipientfor 
balls  and  pills,  and  as  a  vehicle  for  nauseous  and  irritating 
drugs.  It  is  not  a  valuable  remedy  for  internal  use,  but  is 
sometimes  given  with  the  food  to  prevent  intestinal  fermen- 
tation and  relieve  flatulence.  It  may  prove  curative  in  cases 
of  glycosuria  ;  and  in  trichinosis  when  given  by  the  mouth, 
and  in  high  rectal  injections  after  active  purgation.  Glycerin 
is  a  useful  addition  to  cough  mixtures  in  moistening  and 
soothing  the  throat,  and  in  not  interfering  with  digestion. 
When  injected  into  the  rectum  in  quantities  of  §  iv.-vi.  for 
horses,  or  §  ss.-i  for  dogs,  it  often  causes  prompt  evacuation 
of  the  lower  bowel.  The  suppositories  may  be  employed  in 
canine  practice. 


GLTCTRKHIZA  583 

Glycyrrhiza.     Glycyrrhiza. 

Synonym. — Glycyrrhizse  radix,  B.P.;  liquorice  or  licorice 
root,  E.;  reglisse,  bois  de  reglisse,  boix  doux,  racine  douce, 
Fr.;  spanisches  siissholz,  spanische  siissholz-wurzel,  G. 

The  root  of  Glycyrrhiza  glabra  Linne  and  of  the  variety 
glandulifera  (Waldstein  et  Kittaibel)  Kegel  et  Herder  (nat. 
ord.  Legumiiiosse). 

Habitat. — S.  Europe  and  "W.  Asia;  cultivated. 

Description. — In  long,  cylindrical  pieces,  from  5  to  25 
Mm.  thick ;  longitudinally  wrinkled,  externally  grayish- 
brown,  warty ;  internally  tawny-yellow ;  pliable,  tough ; 
fracture  coarsely  fibrous ;  bark  rather  thick ;  wood  porous 
but  dense,  in  narrow  wedges ;  medullary  rays  linear ;  taste 
sweet,  somewhat  acrid.  The  drug  derived  from  the  variety 
glandulifera  (so-ca'lled  Russian  liquorice)  consists  usually  of 
roots  or  root-branches  1  to  4  Cm.  thick,  15  to  30  Cm.  long, 
frequently  deprived  of  the  corky  layer,  the  wood  rather  soft, 
and  usually  more  or  less  cleft. 

Constituents. — 1,  a  yellow,  sweet,  amorphous  glucoside, 
glycyrrhizin  (Co^HogOg),  about  6  per  cent.;  2,  glycyramin ;  3, 
asparagin,  about  3  per  cent.;  4,  an  acrid  resin;  5,  starch;  6, 
glucose. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Glycyrrhizce  Fluidum,    Fluid  Extract  of  Glycyrrhiza. 

(U.  S.  P,) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  water  of  ammonia, 
alcohol  and  water,  and  evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc,  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude 
drug. 

Dose  of  the  root  or  fluid  extract  is  unimportant. 

Extractum  Olycyrrhizae.  Liquidum.     (B.  P.) 
Dose. — Unimportant 

Action  and  Uses. — Liquorice  is  demulcent  and  slightly 
laxative.  The  powdered  root  is  employed  as  an  excipient 
in  making  electuaries,  since  it  is  soothing  to  the  throat.  It 
is  also  used  as  an  excipient  in  the  preparation  of  balls,  and 
more  or  less  successfully  conceals,  in  the  form  of  the  fluid 


584  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

extract,  the  taste  of  aloes,  cascara  sagrada,  ammonium  chlo- 
ride, turpentine,  hyoscjamus  and  quinine  sulphate. 

LiNUM.     Linseed. 

Synonym. — Lini  semina,  B.P.;  flaxseed,  E.;  semence  de 
lin,  Fr.;  leinsamen,  flachssamen,  G.;  semen  lini,  P.G. 

The  seed  of  Linum  usitatissimum  Linne  (nat.  ord. 
Lineae). 

Habitat — Most  temperate  climates. 

Description. — About-  4  or  5  Mm.  long,  oblong-ovate, 
flattened,  obliquely  pointed  at  one  end ;  brown,  glossy, 
covered  with  a  transparent,  mucilaginous  epithelium,  which 
swells  considerably  in  water;  the  embryo  whitish  or  pale 
greenish,  with  two  large  oily,  planoconvex  cotyledons  and  a 
thin  perisperm;  inodorous;  taste  mucilaginous,  oily  and 
bitter. 

Constituents. — 1,  linseed  oil,  30  to  35  per  cent,  in  the 
nucleus ;  2,  gum,  15  per  cent,  in  the  epidermis  ;  3,  proteids, 
25  per  cent.;  4,  a  trace  of  amygdalin. 

Action  and  Uses. — Linseed  is  a  food.  Oil  cake  or  linseed 
cake  from  which  the  oil  has  been  expressed,  is  exceedingly 
rich  in  protein  (25-30  per  cent.),  and  is  also  richer  in  fat  (10 
per  cent.)  than  most  foods.  Cottonseed  meal,  which  contains 
considerably  more  protein  and  fat,  is  more  frequently  em- 
ployed in  the  United  States.  Gruel  made  from  crushed 
linseed  meal  cake,  or  linseed  meal,  is  useful  as  a  restorative 
in  all  animals  recovering  from  acute  and  debilitating  dis- 
eases. The  cake  (1  lb.),  or  a  pint  of  cottonseed  meal  per 
diem,  is  a  good  addition  to  the  ordinary  fodder  for  horses 
suffering  from  malnutrition,  with  rough  staring  coats  and 
dry  skin,  and  for  those  affected  with  "  broken  wind."  Gruel 
of  linseed  meal  or  cake  is  also  serviceable  for  calves  or 
lambs  when  reared  on  skimmed  milk  or  other  poor  food. 
Linseed  tea,  made  by  steeping  1  part  of  whole  linseed  in  20 
parts,  by  weight,  of  boiling  water,  for  1-4  hours,  followed  by 
straining,  is  a  valuable  demulcent  preparation  in  pharyngitis, 


ACACIA  585 

bronchitis,  gastro-enteritis,  and  is  possibly  useful  in  acute 
cystitis  and  nephritis.  It  may  be  given  in  any  amount 
which  an  animal  will  take  voluntarily.  The  mucilage  con- 
tained in  linseed  tea  cannot  be  carried  through  the  blood 
and  eliminated  by  the  kidneys,  so  that  it  must  act  by  virtue 
of  the  water  contained  in  it  and  perhaps  by  some  intrinsic 
diuretic  property. 

The  addition  of  a  few  drachms  of  gum  arable  to  the 
quart  of  linseed  tea  will  improve  the  demulcent  action. 
Linseed,  linseed  meal  or  farina  liui  is  the  best  substance  to 
use  in  the  preparation  of  poultices.  It  should  be  mixed 
with  an  equal  quantity  of  bran,  when  the  poultice  is  applied 
directly  to  the  part.  If  the  poultice  is  enclosed  in  a  bag, 
the  outside  should  be  oiled  to  prevent  its  sticking  to  the  skin. 
Linseed  meal,  mixed  with  an  equal  amount  of  molasses, 
forms  a  common  excipient  for  ball  masses.  Linseed  tea, 
made  thicker  than  usual,  is  a  good  local  application  in  irri- 
tation of  the  rectum,  or  vagina. 

Acacia.    Acacia. 

Synonym. — Acacise  gummi,  B.P.;  gum  arable,  E.;  gomme 
arabique,  Fr.;  arabisches  gummi,  G. 

A  gummy  exudation  from  Acacia  Senegal  Willdenow 
(nat.  ord.  Leguminosse). 

Habitat. — N.,  E.,  and  W.  Africa. 

Properties. — In  roundish  tears  of  various  sizes,  or  broken 
into  angular  fragments  with  a  glass-like,  sometimes  irides- 
cent fracture  ;  opaque  from  numerous  fissures,  but  trans- 
parent and  nearly  colorless  in  thin  pieces';  nearly  inodorous; 
taste  insipid,  mucilaginous  ;  insoluble  in  alcohol,  but  soluble 
in  2  parts  of  water,  forming  a  thick,  mucilaginous  liquid. 

Constituents. — Arabin  or- arable  acid  (C12H22O11),  in  com- 
bination with  about  3  per  cent,  of  magnesium,  potassium  and 
calcium. 

Licompatibles. — Alcohol,  ferric  salts,  lead  subacetate, 
borax,  and  sulphuric  acid. 


586  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

Preparations. — Mucilago  acacise,  U.  S.  &  B.  P.  (34  per 
cent.,  U.  S.),  and  sjrupus  acacise,  U.  S.  P.  (25  per  cent.) 

Dose. — Ad  lib. 

Action  and  Uses. — Gum  arable  is  but  slightly  nutritious. 
It  is  a  useful  demulcent  in  covering  and  protecting  inflamed 
mucous  membranes  of  the  upper  respiratory  and  digestive 
tracts.  It  may  be  given  freelyin  water,  but  large  quantities 
may  undergo  fermentation  and  cause  indigestion  and  diar- 
rhoea. A  10  per  cent,  aqueous  solution  is  sometimes  injected 
into  the  bladder,  vagina  or  rectum  in  inflammation  of  these 
parts.  Acacia  is  chiefly  of  value  in  medicine  for  the  prepara- 
tion of  mixtures,  emulsions,  pills,  balls  and  electuaries. 
About  3  iii-  of  mucilago  acacise  are  required  to  suspend  §  i. 
of  oil  or  resinous  tincture.  Acacia  is  sometimes  prescribed 
in  genito-urinary  irritation.  Animals  will  voluntarily  drink 
aqueous  solutions. 

Tragacantha.     Tragacanth.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Gomme  adragante,  Fr. 

A  gummy  exudation  from  Astragalus  guinmifer  Labil- 
lardiere,  and  from  other  species  of  Astragalus  (nat.  ord. 
Leguminosae). 

Habitat. — Asia  Minor. 

Properties. — In  narrow  or  broad  bands,  more  or  less 
curved  or  contorted,  marked  by  parallel  lines  or  ridges; 
white  or  faintly  yellowish,  translucent,  horn-like,  tough,  and 
rendered  more  easily  pulverizable  by  a  heat  of  122°  F. 
Yery  sparingly  soluble  in  water,  but  swells  into  a  gelatinous 
mass  which  is  tinged  blue  with  iodine. 

Constituents. — 1,  arabin,  53.3  per  cent.,  not  identical  with 
arabin  of  acacia,  however ;  2,  bassorin  (CgHioOg),  33.1  per 
cent.,  a  gum,  swells  up  with  water  but  does  not  dissolve  ;  3, 
starch ;  4,  ash. 

PREPAEATION. 

Mucilago  Tragacanthce,    Mucilage  of  Tragacanth.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Tragacanth,  6;  glycerin,  18;  water  to  make  100.     (U.  S.) 
Dose.— Ad.  lib. 


ALTHiEA  587 

Action  and  Uses. — Tragacanth  is  a  demulcent,  but  is 
chiefly  used  in  the  preparation  of  mixtures  and  emulsions  to 
suspend  oils,  resins  and  insoluble  powders. 

Alth^a.     Althaea.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Marshmallow  root,  E.;  racine  de  guimauve, 
Fr.  ;  altheewurzel,  eibischwurzel,  G.;  radix  althseae,  P.G. 

The  root  of  Althaea  officinalis  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Malvaceae). 

Hohitdt. — N.  and  W.  Asia  and  Europe.  Cultivated  in 
Europe,  and  naturalized  in  E.  United  States  and  Australia, 
growing  in  salt  marshes. 

Constituents. — 1,  bassorin,  35  per  cent.;  2,  pectin,  10  per 
cent.;  3,  asparagin,  1  per  cent.;  4,  sugar. 

PREPARATION. 

Syrupus  Althaeoe.     Syrup  of  Althaea.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Althaea,  50 ;  alcohol,  30 ;  glycerin,  100;  sugar,  700  ;  water  to  make 
1000. 

Dose. — Ad  lib. 

Action  and  Uses. — Althaea  is  occasionally  employed  as  a 
demulcent  in  irritable  conditions  of  the  digestive  canal,  and 
as  a  vehicle  in  the  form  of  syrup. 

Sacchabum.     Sugar.     C,M,,0,,.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Saccharum  purificatum,  B.P.;  "refined  sugar, 
cane  sugar,  E.;  sucre,  sucre  de  canne,  Fr.;  zucker,  rohrzuc- 
ker,  G. 

The  refined  sugar  obtained  from  Saccharum  officinarum 
Linne,  and  from  various  species  or  varieties  of  sorghum  (nat. 
ord.  Graminese) ;  also  from  one  or  more  varieties  of  Beta 
vulgaris  Linne  (nat.  ord.  Chenopodiaceae). 

Habitat — Indigenous  in  S.  Asia,  but  cultivated  in  many 
tropical  and  sub-tropical  countries. 

Properties.  —  "White,  hard,  dry,  distinctly  crystalline 
granules,  odorless,  and  having  a  purely  sweet  taste.  Per- 
manent in  the  air.     Soluble  in  0.5  part  of  water ;  in  0.2  part 


588  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

of  boiling  water,  and  in  175  parts  of  alcohol.     Insoluble  in 
ether,  chloroform,  or  carbon  disulphide. 

PREPARATION. 

Syrupus.    Syrup.     (U.  S.  P.) 

%non2^.— Simple  syrup,  E.;  siropdesucre,  Fr.;  weisser  syrup,  G.; 
syrupus  simplex,  P.G. 

Made  by  solution  of  sugar,  850;  with  heat  in  distilled  water,  strain- 
ing, and  addition  of  distilled  water  to  make  1000.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Molasses.     (Non-official.) 

Synonym. — Theriaca,  B.P. ;  sacchari  faex,  syrupus  fus- 
CU8,  treacle,  E.;  melasse,  Fr.;  melasse,  G. 

The  brown,  uncrystallizable  syrup  that  drains  away 
from  the  crystals  of  raw  sugar  in  the  refining  process. 

Action  and  Uses. — Sugar,  syrup  and  molasses  are  demul- 
cents, and  are  sometimes  employed  in  medicated  syrup  or 
electuary,  for  their  soothing  action  on  the  throat  in  catarrh 
of  the  upper  air  passages.  They  are  liable  to  ferment  iu  the 
alimentary  canal  if  given  continuously,  with  the  production 
of  acidity  and  indigestion,  so  that  they  are  not  suitable  for 
general  use  as  demulcents.  Sugar,  syrup  and  molasses  are 
mainly  useful  as  vehicles,  corrigents,  preservatives,  and 
excipients  in  pharmacy.  Sugar  is  utilized  as  a  constituent 
of  powders,  and  syrup  and  molasses  are  excipients  in  the 
preparation  of  balls  and  electuaries.  Sugar  increases  the 
solubility  of  calcium  salts  (see  Syrupus  Calcis,  p.  148  and 
protects  ferrous  compounds  from  oxidation  (see  Ferri  Carb. 
Sacch.,p.l48). 

Sugar  is  an  antiseptic,  and,  in  syrup,  prevents  the  fer- 
mentation of  active  medicinal  substances.  Brown  sugar  and 
molasses  are  laxative,  in  large  doses,  and  are  prescribed  in 
veterinary  practice,  with  ginger,  to  aid  the  action  of  salts  on 
cattle  (Oss.-i.)  and  sheep  (  5  iL-vi.).  (See  Epsom  salts,  p.  153.) 


ASPIDIUM  589 

SECTION  XIY.— VEGETABLE  DRUGS  KILLING 
PARASITES. 

Class  1.— Used  to  Destroy  Tape-Worms. 

AspiDiUM.    Aspidium.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Syrumym. — Felix  roas,  B.P.;  radix  filicis  maris,  male 
fern,  male  shield  fern,  E.;  rhizome  (racine)  de  fougere  male, 
Fr. ;  wurmfarnwurzel,  waldfarnwurzel,  johanniswurzel,  G. ; 
rhizoma  filicis,  P.G. 

The  rhizome  of  Drjopteris  Felix-mas  Schott,  and  of 
Dryopteris  Marginalis  Asa  Gray  (nat.  ord.  Filices). 

Habitat — D.  filix-mas,  Europe  ;  D.  marginalis,  U.  S. 

Description. — From  5  to  15  Cm.  long,  10  to  25  Mm.  in 
thickness,  and,  together  with  the  closely  imbricated,  dark- 
brown,  roundish,  and  slightly  curved  stipe-remnants,  50  to 
75  Mm.  in  diameter ;  densely  curved,  with  brown,  glossy, 
transparent  and  soft,  chaffy  scales ;  internally  pale-green ; 
rather  spongy  ;  vascular  bundles  about  ten  (Dryopteris  filix- 
mas)  or  six  (Dryopteris  marginalis)  in  number,  arranged  in 
an  interrupted  circle ;  odor  sliglit,  but  disagreeable  ;  taste 
sweetish,  acrid,  somewhat  bitter,  astringent  and  nauseous. 

Constituents,  —  The  active  principle  is  (1)  filicic  acid 
{C35H42OJ3),  a  white,  amorphous  crystalline  substance  ;  there 
are  also  :  2,  a  fixed  oil,  6  per  cent. ;  3,  resin,  4  per  cent. ;  4, 
filicin  (C35H40O12),  a  crystalline  principle  soluble  in  chloroform, 
benzol,  fixed  and  volatile  oils  ;  5,  filix-red,  a  coloring  matter  ; 
6,  a  small  quantity  of  a  volatile  oil. 

Dose.— H.  &  a,  I  v.-vi.  (150.-180.);  Sh.,  5  ii.-iv.  (60.-120.) ; 
Lambs,  3i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  D.  &  C,  3  ss.-i.  (15.-30.). 

PREPARATION. 

Oleoresina  Aspidii.     Oleoresin  of  Aspidium.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  percolation  with  ether,  distillation  and  evaporation  of  the 
ether. 

Dose  (also  of  the  extractum  filicis  liquidum,  B.  P.) — H.  &  C, 
3iii.-vi.(13.-34.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.);  D.  &  C,  rnxv.- 3  i.  (1.-4.) 


590  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

Action  and  Uses. — Aspidium  is  cliieflj  of  value  in  veter- 
inary medicine  as  a  taeniacide  or  agent  destroying  tape-worms, 
particularly  those  inhabiting  dogs.  Large  quantities  of  the 
drug  cause  hsemorrhagic  gastro-enteritis,  tremors,  weakness, 
stupor,  coma,  acute  nephritis  and  cystitis.  Six  drachms  of 
the  oleoresin  have  proved  fatal  in  man  and  sheep ;  five 
drachms  in  a  medium-sized  dog  ;  and  three  ounces  in  the 
case  of  a  cow.  Aspidium  must  never  be  given  with  oil, 
which  aids  its  absorption.  Dogs  should  be  fasted  24  hours 
or  fed  on  a  little  milk ;  then  the  oleoresin  should  be  admin- 
istered, and  the  dose  repeated  in  3  hours.  After  the  expira- 
tion of  12  hours  from  the  administration  of  the  first  dose,  a 
purgative  quantity  of  caslor  oil  is  to  be  exhibited.  An 
injection  of  salt  and  water  assists  the  expulsion  of  segments 
of  taenia  from  the  rectum.  If  the  head  of  the  taenia  is  not 
expelled  the  treatment  may  be  repeated  in  three  days  or  a 
week.  The  oleoresin  may  be  flavored  with  a  few  drops  of 
oil  of  peppermint,  and  is  often  combined  with  a  small  dose 
of  areca  nut  (gr.i.  to  the  lb.  live  weight)  in  emulsion  with 
mucilage  of  tragacanth,  or  with  fluid  extract  of  kousso,  3  i. 
to  3  ii-  The  oleoresin  may  also  be  exhibited  in  pills  or 
capsules.  It  is  on  the  whole  the  best  agent  against  the  tape- 
worms of  dogs,  including  Taenia  serrata,  T.  marginata,  T. 
coenurus  and  T.  echinococcus. 


Areca.     (Non-official.) 

Synonym. — Areca-nut,  betal-nut,  E. ;  noix  d'areque,  Fr.; 
areca-nuss,  G. 

The  seed  of  Areca  Catechu  (nat.  ord.  Palmaceae). 

Habitat. — India,  Coromandel  and  Malabar  coasts ;  also 
in  warm  parts  of  Asia. 

Description. — The  seeds  resemble  nutmeg  in  size,  shape 
and  color.  They  ^aeld  a  brown  powder,  partially  soluble  in 
water  and  alcohol.     The  taste  is  astringent. 

Constituents. — 1,  the  active  principle  is  the  liquid  alka- 
loid, arecoline  (CgHigNOg);  arecoline  hydrobromate   is  the 


KAMALA  591 

commercial  salt,  occurring  in  white  crystals,  soluble  in 
alcohol  and  water;  dose — H.  &  C,  gr.|-l  (.02  .06),  subcut. ; 
2,  an  inert  alkaloid  ;  3,  red  tannic  acid ;  4,  an  oil. 

Dosp. — Areca  nut — H.,  3  ss.-i.  (15.-30.)  ;  Lamb,  3  i.  (4.) ; 
D.,  gr.ii.  for  each  lb.  of  live  weight,  or  gr.xv.-3ii.  (1.-8.); 
Fowl  (against  A.  gibbosa),  gr.x.  (.6)  in  pill. 

Action  and  Uses. — Areca  nut  is  an  anthelmintic  more 
commonly  classed  as  a  taeniacide,  but  capable  of  killing 
round-worms  satisfactorily.  It  acts  more  successfully  as  a 
vermicide  in  dogs  than  in  the  case  of  the  larger  animals. 
Areca  nut  is  an  astringent  in  small  doses,  but  large  amounts 
induce  catharsis.  When  the  drug  is  used  as  an  anthelmintic 
the  animal  should  be  deprived  of  food  for  24  hours  previous 
to  its  administration.  The  powder  is  given  to  dogs  in  milk, 
frequently  with  oleoresin  of  male  fern  in  small  quantity.  If 
purgation  does  not  follow  the  use  of  areca  nut  tvithin  a  short 
time,  a  dose  of  castor  oil  is  indicated.  The  fluid  extract  is  a 
more  convenient  preparation. 

Arecoline  hydrobromate  (CgHigNO,  H  Br)  has  been 
recently  employed  subcutaneously — H.,  gr.^-i.  (.02-.06) ;  D., 
S^-w'tV  (•001-.005) — as  a  rapidly-acting  cathartic,  exciting 
peristalsis,  in  colic  and  indigestion  of  horses,  and  in  gastritis 
("  Fardel  bound  ")  of  ruminants.  The  results  so  far  reported 
have  been  favorable,  but  final  judgment  must  be  deferred 
until  further  trials  are  made.  In  1  per  cent,  solution  the 
alkaloid  is  used  in  the  eye  as  a  myotic. 

Kamala.     Kamala.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Rottlera. 

The  glands  and  hairs  from  the  capsules  of  Mallotus 
philippinensis  (Lamarck)  Mueller  Arg.  (nat.  ord.  Euphor- 
biacese). 

Habitat. — India,  China  and  the  Philippitie  Islands. 

Properties. — A  granular,  mobile,  brick-red  or  brownish- 
red  powder,  inodorous  and  nearly  tasteless ;  imparting  a 
deep  red  color  to  alkaline  liquids,  alcohol,  ether  or  chloro- 


592  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

form,  and  a  pale  yellow  tioge  to  boiling  water.  Under  the 
microscope  it  is  seen  to  consist  of  stellately  arranged,  color- 
less hairs,  mixed  with  depressed-globular  glands,  containing 
numerous  red,  club-shaped  vesicles. 

Constituents.  —  The  chief  principle  is  (1)  rottlerin, 
(CjjaHjoOg),  occurring  in  yellow  acicular  crystals,  soluble  in  hot 
alcohol,  ether,  benzol,  and  carbon  disulphide.  There  are 
also  (2)  resins,  80  per  cent. 

Dose.—T>.,  3ss.-ii.  (2.-8.);  H.  k  C,  ^i.  (30.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Kamala  is  an  anthelmintic.  It  is 
employed  more  frequently  as  a  taeniacide,  but  will  also  kill 
ascarides  and  oxyurides.  Large  doses  may  give  rise  to 
nausea  and  vomitiug  in  dogs  and  cats.  Kamala  is  also  a 
purgative,  so  that  it  is  rarely  necessary  to  employ  one  after 
its  administration.  It  should  be  given  in  syrup  to  the  fast- 
ing animal,  and  repeated  in  eight  hours  if  the  first  dose  is 
not  operative  by  that  time. 

Cusso.    Kousso.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Brayera,  kooso,  kusso,  E.;  cousso,  kousso, 
Fr.;  kosso,  cusso,  kusso,  G.;  flores  kosso,  P.G. 

The  female  inflorescence  of  Hagenia  abyssinica  (Bruce) 
Gmelin  (nat.  ord.  Rodacese). 

Habitat.  — Abyssinia. 

Description. — In  bundles,  rolls,  or  compressed  clusters 
consisting  of  pannicles  about  25  Cm.  long,  with  a  sheathing 
bract  at  the  base  of  each  branch ;  the  two  roundish  bracts 
at  the  base  of  each  flower,  and  the  four  or  five  obovate,  outer 
sepals  are  of  a  reddish  color,  membranous  and  veiny  ;  calyx 
top-shaped,  hairy,  enclosing  two  carpels  or  nutlets;  odor 
slight,  fragrant  and  tea-like ;  taste  bitter,  acrid  and  nauseous. 

Const itiients. — 1,  the  active  principle  is  kosin  or  koussin, 
a  yellow,  tasteless,  crystalline  glucoside,  soluble  in  alcohol, 
chloroform,  benzol  and  ether,  but  insoluble  in  water  ;  dose — 
dogs,  gr.x.-xl.  (.6-2.6);  2,  a  volatile  oil;  3,  gum;  4,  tannic 
acid ;  5,  two  resins. 


POMEGRANATE  593 

Dose.  —Small  dogs,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.) ;  large  dogs,  3  ii.-iv. 
(8.-15.). 

PREPARATION. 

Extractum  Cusso  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Kousso.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Extractum  brayerae  fluidum. 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  kousso  with  alcohol,  and 
evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 
Dose. — Same  as  kousso. 

Action  and  Uses. — Kousso  is  an  effective  tseniacide  in 
dogs  and  cats.  Large  doses  cause  nausea,  colicky  pains  and 
some  catharsis.  Kousso  is  administered  in  milk,  or  as  an 
infusion  flavored  with  peppermint ;  also  in  the  form  of  the 
fluid  extract,  or  glucoside  in  capsules,  to  the  fasting  animal. 
It  should  be  repeated  3  times,  at  hour  intervals,  and  followed 
by  a  small  dose  of  castor  oil  if  the  bowels  are  not  sufficiently 
relaxed.  There  is  little  danger  of  poisoning  even  by  great 
quantities  of  the  drug. 

Granatum.     Pomegranate. 

Synonym. — Granati  radicis  cortex,  B.P. ;  ecorce  de  la 
racine  de  grenadier  (de  balaustier),  Fr.;  granat-wurzelrinde, 
G.;  cortex  radicis  granati,  P.G. 

The  bark  of  the  stem  and  root  of  Punica  Granatum 
Linne  (nat.  ord.  Lythrariese). 

Habitat. — India  and  S.  W.  Asia.  Also  cultivated  and 
naturalized  in  sub-tropical  countries. 

Description. — In  thin  quills  or  fragments,  from  5  to  10 
Cm.  long,  and  from  1  to  3  Mm.  thick ;  outer  surface  yellowish- 
gray,  somewhat  warty,  or  longitudinally  and  reticulately 
rigid;  the  stem-bark  often  partly  covered  with  blackish 
lichens;  the  thicker  pieces  of  the  root-bark  more  or  less 
scaly  externally ;  inner  surface  smooth,  finely-striate ; 
grayish-yellow  ;  indistinctly  radiate  ;  inodorous ;  taste  astrin- 
gently, very  slightly  bitter. 

Constituents. — The  active  principle  is  (1)  pelletierine 
(CgHigNO),  J  per  cent.,  a  colorless,  oil}^  aromatic  alkaloid, 


594  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

soluble  in  alcoliol,  chloroform  and  ether ;  four  salts  occur 
in  commerce :  the  tannate,  sulphate,  hydrobromate  and 
hydrochlorate ;  the  first  is  more  frequently  used ;  dose — 
D.,  gr.ii.-v.  (.12-.3) ;  2,  punico-tannic  acid,  22  per  cent. ;  3, 
methyl,  pseudo,  and  iso-pelletierine ;  the  latter  is  a  taenia- 
cide. 

Dose, — Dogs,  3  ss.-i.ss.  (2.-6.). 

There  is  a  (non-official)  fluid  extract  which  may  be 
given  in  same  dose. 

Action  and  Uses. — Pomegranate  is  inferior  to  the  fore- 
going drugs  as  an  anthelmintic,  since  it  is  disagreeable  and 
prone  to  produce  vomiting.  Pomegranate  is  an  astringent, 
but,  in  large  doses,  acts  as  an  emetic  and  purgative  and  has 
occasioned  weakness,  colic,  dizziness  and  convulsions.  In 
sufficient  amount  pelletierine  is  said  to  paralyze  motor 
nerves,  like  curare.  Granatum  is  an  anthelmintic,  chiefly 
against  tape-worm.  The  decoction  (1-8,  B.P.)  may  be  em- 
ployed (with  \  part  syrup  of  ginger)  in  3  doses,  at 
hour  intervals,  for  dogs.  The  patient  should  be  previously 
fasted  for  24*hours,  and  castor  oil  is  indicated  if  purging  is 
not  produced  by  pomegranate.  Tannate  of  pelletierine  is  a 
yellowish,  astringent-tasting  powder,  soluble  in  80  parts  of 
alcohol  and  700  parts  of  water.  It  is  invariably  used  in 
human  medicine  in  preference  to  the  crude  drug,  and  should 
be  followed  in  2  hours  by  a  dose  of  castor  oil.  The  use  of 
pelletierine  is  undesirable  in  young  animals. 

Class  2. — Used  to  Destroy  Round-worms. 

Santonica.     Santonica.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Levant  worm  seed,  semen  cinge  s.  contra,  s. 
sanctum,  s.  santonici,  E.;  barbotine,  semencine,  Fr.;  wurm- 
samen,  zitwersamen,  G.;  flores  cinse,  P.G. 

The  unexpanded  flower-heads  of  Artemisia  pauciflora 
Weber  (nat.  ord.  Compositse). 
V      Habitat. — Northern  middle  Europe  and  Asia. 


SANTONIN  595 

Description.  —  From  2  to  4  Mm.  long ;  oblong-ovoid, 
obtuse,  smooth,  somewhat  glossy,  grayish-green,  consisting 
of  an  involucre  of  about  12  to  18  closely  imbricated,  glandu- 
lar scales  with  a  broad  midrib,  enclosing  four  or  five  rudi- 
mentary florets ;  odor  strong,  peculiar,  somewhat  camphor- 
aceous  ;  taste  aromatic  and  bitter. 

Constitiients.  —  The  active  principle  is  (1)  santonin. 
There  is  also  (2)  a  volatile  oil. 

Santoninum.     Santonin.     Ci^H^eO,.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Santonine,  Fr.;  santonin,  G. 

A  neutral  principle  obtained  from  santonica. 

Derivation. — Made  from  a  mixture  of  lime  and  santonica 
by  exhausting  with  alcohol,  evaporation  of  the  latter,  and  by 
the  addition  of  acetic  acid  to  the  residue.  Santonin  is 
obtained  by  treating  an  alcoholic  solution  of  the  residue  with 
animal  charcoal  and  crystallization. 

Properties. — Colorless,  shining,  flattened;  prismatic  crys- 
tals ;  odorless  and  nearly  tasteless  when  first  put  in  the 
mouth,  but  afterwards  developing  a  bitter  taste  ;  not  altered 
by  exposure  to  air,  but  turning  yellow  on  exposure  to  light. 
Nearly  insoluble  in  cold  water;  soluble  in  40  parts  of 
alcohol,  in  140  parts  of  ether,  in  4  parts  of  chloroform,  and 
in  solutions  of  caustic  alkalies. 

i>o.se.— Puppies,  gr.^-i  (.015-.03) ;  D.,  gr.i.-iii.  (.06-.18); 
H.,  3i-iv.  (1.-15.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Santonin  is  preferable  to  santonica. 
Santonin  is  chiefly  valuable  as  a  parasiticide  against  round- 
worms ;  viz. :  A.  lumbricoides  of  cattle  and  swine,  A.  mystax 
and  marginata  of  cats  and  dogs,  and  A.  megalocephala  of 
horses.  It  has  no  influence  on  tape- worms,  nor  probably  on 
oxyurides. 

Large  doses  cause  poisoning,  with  the  occurrence,  in 
dogs,  of  nausea  and  vomiting,  weakness,  giddiness,  muscular 
trembling,  salivation,  slow  pulse,  rapid  respiration,  dilated 
pupils,  jadndice,  unconsciousness,   convulsions  and  death. 


596  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

While  5  to  6  grains  induce  symptoms  of  poisoning  in  dogs, 
J  to  1  drachm  has  often  failed  to  produce  a  fatal  result. 
Santonin  is  eliminated  by  the  kidneys,  increasing  their 
secretion,  coloring  an  acid  urine  yellow,  and  an  alkaline 
urine  purplish-red,  or  bloody  hue.  The  humors  of  the  eye 
are  stained  yellow,  occasioning  yellow  sight  in  man, — 
xanthopsy.  There  is  congestion  of  the  heart,  lungs  and 
nervous  centres  observed  after  death,  but  no  gastro-enteritis. 
Santonin  is  very  slowly  converted  in  the  intestines  into 
sodium  santoninate,  and  absorbed  in  this  form.  The  best 
treatment  of  poisoning  is  undetermined,  but  inhalations  of 
ether  and  enemata  of  chloral,  together  with  laxatives,  when 
consciousness  returns,  are  said  to  be  useful.  'The  administra- 
tion of  santonin  should  be  followed  or  accompanied  by  that 
of  a  cathartic. 

The  drug  taay  be  given  to  fasting  dogs  as  follows  : 

Hydrarg.  Chlorid.  Mitis. 

Santo'nini aa  gr.v. 

Sacchari ad.  3  i. 

M.  et  div.  in  chart,  no.  x. 
Sig.  One  powder  tid.  (for  round-worms). 
or : — 

Santonin! • gr.vi. 

01.  Ricini f  ii. 

M. 

Sig.  Give  one-third  every  third  day  (for  round-worms). 

Santonin  may  be  given  in  pill  to  dogs  combined  with 
oleoresina  filicis  and  areca  nut.  Santonin  is  not  so  com- 
monly or  successfully  used  in  the  treatment  of  round-worms 
in  horses,  as  turpentine  and  aloes,  creolin,  etc.  A  ball  con- 
taining 3  ii.  of  santonin  and  3  i.  of  calomel,  or  a  combination 
of  3  iv.  santonin  and  1  pint  of  castor  oil,  are  suitable  pre- 
scriptions for  the  horse.  Santonin  is  often  remedial  in 
incontinence  of  urine  in  young  animals,  when  belladonna 
fails,  and  is  frequently  beneficial  in  the  treatment  of 
amaurosis. 


STAPHISAGRIA  597 

Class  3.— Used  to  Destroy  Lice. 

Staphisagria,     Staphisagria. 

Synonym,  —  Staphisagrise  semina,  B.P. ;  stavesacre, 
semina  staphidis  agrise  s.  pedicularis,  E.;  staphisaigre,  Fr.; 
stephauskorner,  lausekorner,  G. 

The  seeds  of  Delphinium  Staphisagria  Linn^  (nat.  ord. 
Ranunculaceae). 

Habitat — Shores  of  Mediterranean  ;  cultivated. 

Description. — About  5  Mm.  long,  3  or  4  Mm.  broad, 
flattish-tetrahedral,  one  side  convex,  brown  or  brownish- 
gray,  with  reticulate  ridges,  containing  a  whitish,  oily, 
albumen  and  a  straight  embryo  ;•  nearly  inodorous,  taste 
bitter  and  acrid. 

Constituents, — 1,  the  important  principle  is  delphinine 
(CsaHasNOg),  a  white,  poisonous,  crystalline  alkaloid  resem- 
bling veratrine  and  aconite ;  soluble  in  alcohol,  chloroform 
and  ether ;  2,  delphisine  (C27H46N2O4) ;  3,  delphinoidine 
(O^gHesNaO,) ;  4,  staphisagrine  (C22H22NO5) ;   5,  a  fixed  oil. 

Action  and  Uses. — Powdered  staphisagria  is  employed 
solely  to  kill  lice  (pediculi)  in  ointment  (1-2)  with  benzoin- 
ated  lard  or  vaseline.  Creolin  solutions  (3-6  per  cent.), 
tobacco  infusions  (5-10  per  cent.),  and  oil  of  anise  with 
sweet  oil  (1-10  per  cent.),  are  also  used  for  the  same  purpose. 
The  latter  mixture  is  an  elegant  preparation  for  pet  dogs. 

The  tincture  of  larkspur  (delphinium  cousolida),  another 
species  of  the  same  genus,  is  also  a  very  efficient  parasiticide 
against  pediculi.  It  contains  1  part  of  larkspur  seeds  to  16 
of  alcohol. 

Class  4. — Used  to  Destroy  Fleas. 

Pyrethrum.     Pyre^hrum.     (Non-official.) 

Synonym.  —  Persian,  Caucasian  or  Dalmatian  insect 
powder. 

The  flowers  of  Pyrethrum  roseum  and  carneum. 


598  VEGETABLE   DRUGS 

Habitat. — Caucasian  Mountains ;  cultivated  in  Califor- 
nia, U.  S. 

Description. — A  coarse,  greenish-yellow,  pungent  powder. 
Pyrethrum  is  the  best  parasiticide  for  fleas  (pulicidse).  It  is 
used  more  frequently  to  kill  these  parasites  on  cats  and  dogs. 
Pyrethrum  is  simply  dusted  over  the  whole  body  or  is 
applied  in  the  form  of  a  tincture  (1-4),  diluted  with  10  parts 
of  water. 

The  application  of  Dalmatian  insect  powder  to  kittens 
and  puppies,  or  to  dogs  and  cats  in  enfeebled  condition,  may 
be  attended  with  danger  unless  the  powder  is  brushed  off 
within  10  or  15  minutes  after  its  use.  Deaths  have  occurred 
in  these  animals  following  its  friee  and  careless  employment. 


SECTION    XV.  —  VEGETABLE    DEUGS    STIMULAT- 
ING UNSTRIATED   MUSCLE,  PAETICULAELY 
THAT   OF  THE  UTEEUS. 

Ergota.    Ergot.     (U.  S.  k  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Ergot  of  rye,  spurred  rye,  E.;  ergot,  ergot  de 
seigle,  ergot  de  ble,  ble  cornu,  Fr.;  mutterkorn,  kornmutter, 
zapfenkorn,  G. 

The  sclerotium  of  Claviceps  purpurea  (Fries)  Tulasne 
(Class  Fungi),  replacing  the  grain  of  rye,  Secale  cereale 
Linne  (nat.  ord.  Gramiueae). 

Habitat. — Ergot  is  obtained  mainly  from  Spain  and 
Eussia. 

Description. — Somewhat  fusiform,  obtusely  triangular, 
usually  curved,  about  2  or  3  Cm.  long  and  3  Mm.  thick  ; 
three-furrowed,  obtuse  at  both  ends,  purplish- black,  inter- 
nally whitish  with  some  purplish  striae,  breaking  with  a  short 
fracture;  odor  peculiar,  heavy;  taste  oily  and  disagreeable. 

Constituents. — It  is  doubtful  whether  the  principles  so 
far  discovered  wholly  represent  the  activity  of  ergot.  The 
following  are  the, more  important  constituents:  1,  cornntine, 


ERGOT  599 

au  alkaloid  which,  with  (2)  sphaceliiiic  or  sphacelic  acid 
(a  non-nitrogenoiis,  unstable  substance,  insoluble  in  water 
but  soluble  in  alkalies),  constitute,  according  to  many,  the 
more  important  active  principles  ;  thej  both  cause  con- 
traction of  the  uterus  and  blood  vessels  ;  3,  three  alkaloids  : 
ergotine  (C50H52N2O3),  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol ;  ecboline, 
amorphous,  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol ;  ergotinine 
(CggH^oN^Oe),  crystalline  ;  4,  two  acids :  ergotic  or  ergotinic 
acid  and  sclerotinic  acid  (1-4  per  cent) ;  both  are  soluble 
in  water  and  alkalies  and  are  said  to  possess  ecbolic  actions ; 
5,  a  fixed  oil,  about  35  per  cent.;  6,  tannin;  7,  phosphoric  acid. 
Alcohol  extracts  cornutine  ;  water,  the  salts  of  the  acids. 
Therefore  ergotin  is  believed  to  represent  the  activity  of  the 
drug.  Ammonia  is  considered  the  best  solvent  by  the  Brit. 
Pha,rm,  Conference,  which  recommends  a  tine,  ergotse 
ammoniata  consisting  of  ergot,  1  part,  aromatic  spirit  of 
ammonia,  2  parts.  The  dose  is  the  same  as  that  of  the  fluid 
extract. 

Dose.—R,  &  C,  5  ss.-i.  (15.-30.) ;  Sh.  &  S.,  3  i.-ii.  (4.-8.); 
D.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.). 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extr actum  Ergotce  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Ergot.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  diluted  alcohol,  and 

evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  ergot. 

Dose.— H.    &  C,    §  ss.-i.  (15.-30.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,    3  i.-ii.   (4.-8.);  D., 

3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.). 

Extractum  Ergotce.     Extract  of  Ergot.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Synonym— YiY^oiin. 

Made  by  evaporation  of  the  fluid  extract  to  a  pilular  consistence. 
Dose.— H.   &  C,   gr.xx.-3i.   (1.3-4.);    D.,    gr.ii.-x.    (.12-.6).     (By 
mouth  or  subcutaneouslj . ) 

Extractum  Ergotce  Liquidum.     (B.  P.) 

( 1  i.  (  rgot  =  1  i.  of  preparation.) 

Dose.— H.  &  C,    3iv.  (15.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,    3  i.   (4.);  D.,  mxv.-xxx. 
(1.-2.). 

Tinctura  Ergotce.     (B.  P.) 

(109  gr.  to    §i.) 
Dose.— H.  &  C,   §ss.-ii.  (15.-60.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  i.-iv.  (4.-15.);  D., 
3ss.ii.  (2.-8.). 


600  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

Ergotinum.     Ergotin.     (B.  P.) 
Dose— H.  &  C,  gr.xx..3  i.  (1.3-4.);  D.,  gr.ii.-x.  (.1C-.6). 

Jnjectio  Ergotini  Hypodermica.     (B.  P.) 
Dose.— H;.,  33^-lK  (3.-6.);  D.,  TTiiii.-x.  (.2-.6). 

Ergot  deteriorates  rapidly  with  age.  Both  it  and  its 
preparations  should  be  fresh  and  the  drug  should  be  dis- 
carded when  over  a  year  old. 

Action  InternaL  —  Digestive  Organs. — Ergot  stimulates 
the  involuntary  muscle  of  the  stomach  and  intestines,  but 
rarely  suflBciently  to  cause  any  outward  signs.  The  blood 
vessels  in  the  walls  of  the  digestive  tract  are  contracted 
directly  by  the  drug,  and  also  because  of  the  constriction  of 
the  muscular  walls  themselves. 

Circulation. — Ergot  is  absorbed  into  the  blood  but  does 
not  influence  that  fluid.  The  essential  action  consists  in 
constriction  of  the  arterioles  and  veins  throughout  the  body, 
with  rise  of  blood  pressure.  This  is  due  to  stimulation  of 
the  spinal  vasomotor  centres.  The  pulse  rate  is  also  some- 
what reduced,  owing,  probably,  to  stimulation  of  the  peri- 
pheral cardiac  vagi.  When  ergot  is  thrown  directly  into  a 
vein,  vascular  tension  is  much  lowered.  This  phenomenon 
follows  depression  of  the  heart  muscle  and  does  not  occur 
after  ordinary  therapeutic  administration  of  ergot  by  the 
mouth  or  under  the  skin.  Toxic  doses  paralyze  both  the 
vasomotor  centres  and  heart  muscle. 

Nervous  System. — The  nervous  system  is  not  afi'ected  by 
medicinal  doses  of  ergot,  nor  by  large  single  doses  of  the 
drug.  Certain  changes  occur  in  poisoning,  but  these  are  not 
understood. 

Uterus. — Ergot  causes  contraction  of  the  pregnant  womb. 
It  does  not  invariably  induce  abortion,  but  does  always  act 
on  the  parturient  organ.  Small  doses  increase  the  duration 
and  force  of  the  uterine  contractions,  but  full  medicinal 
doses  produce  a  tonic,  continuous  spasm  of  the  womb  with- 
out the  usual  intermissions.  Ergot  possesses  little  influence 
on  the  normal  unimpregnated  uterus.     The  action  on  the 


ERGOT  601 

womb  is  probably  to  be  ascribed  to  stimulation  of  the 
uterine  unstriated  muscle,  and  the  spinal  lumbar  centres 
controlling  this  organ.  Ergot  is  the  oxytocic  in  most  com- 
mon use.  The  secretion  of  urine,  sweat,  saliva  and  milk  is 
lessened  by  ergot,  owing  to  general  vascular  contraction. 

Administration. — The  fluid  extract  is  generally  given  by 
the  mouth.  Some  proprietary  preparations  are  made  for 
subcutaneous  use.  Bonjean's  ergotin,  or  the  official  extract, 
are  employed  hypodermatically. 

9 

Extr.  Ergotae gr.xl. 

Alcohol. 

Glycerini. 

Aq.  dest aa3i. 

M. 

Sig.    Give  one-half  subcutaneously  to  a  horse ;  10  to  15  M.  to  dogs. 

Injections  should  be  made  deeply  into  the  muscular 
tissue  to  avoid  abscess.  Ergot  should  be  repeated  frequently 
to  arrest  haemorrhage. 

Toxicology.  —  Enormous  single  doses  are  required  to 
poison  animals  or  man.  When  as  much  as  two  drachms  of 
ergot  to  the  pound,  live  weight,  are  given  to  dogs,  death  is  not 
constant.  Three  ounces,  however,  have  proved  fatal  to  small 
dogs.  Acute  poisoning  is  characterized  by  vomiting  (in  dogs), 
profuse  salivation,  dilation  of  the  pupils,  rapid  breathing, 
and  frequent  pulse.  The  animal  cries  out,  has  convulsive 
twitchings,  staggering  gait,  paraplegia,  intense  thirst,  and 
coma,  terminating  in  death.  Horses,  cattle,  and  sheep  are 
unaffected  by  any  ordinary  quantity  of  the  drug. 

-  Chronic  poisoning  or  ergotism  rarely  occurs  in  animals 
owing  to  continuous  ingestion  of  ergotized  grains.  It  is 
characterized  by  gastro-intestinal  indigestion,  with  nausea, 
vomiting,  colic,  diarrhoea  or  constipation,  and  abortion 
ensues  in  pregnant  animals.  In  addition  to  gastro-intestinal 
irritation  the  symptoms  naturally  assume  two  forms:  1, 
the  gangrenous  form  ;  2,  the  spasmodic  form.  In  the 
first  variety  of  ergotism  there  are  coldness  and  anaesthesia 


602  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

of  tlie  extremities,  including  the  feet,  ears,  and  tail  of  quadru- 
peds ;  the  comb,  tongue  and  beak  of  birds, — followed  by  the 
appearance  of  passive  congestion,  blebs,  and  dry  gangrene 
in  the  vicinity  of  these  parts.  The  hoofs  and  beaks  often 
drop  off.  Death  ensues  from  general  exhaustion.  In  the 
spasmodic  form  are  seen  tonic  contraction  of  the  flexor 
tendons  of  the  limbs  and  anaesthesia  of  the  extremities ; 
muscular  trembling  and  general  tetanic  spasm,  with  opistho- 
tonos, convulsions  and  delirium.  Death  also  occurs  from 
asthenia. 

Uses. — Two  therapeutic  indications  for  the  use  of  ergot 
can  be  directly  deduced  from  its  physiological  actions :  1, 
to  cause  uterine  contraction ;  2,  to  produce  general  vascular 
contraction. 

1.  Ergot  is  occasionally  of  service  in  simple  uterine 
inertia  when  there^is  no  malposition  of  the  foetus,  or  mechan- 
ical obstruction  (pelvic  deformity,  rigid  os  uteri)  to  its 
passage.  Very  small  doses  must  be  given  for  this  purpose 
in  order  to  intensify  the  force  of  the  uterine  contractions 
without  inducing  spasm  of  the  uterus.  The  more  common 
causes  of  dystocia  are  remedied  most  advantageously  by 
manual  interference.  Ergot  is  of  chiefest  value  in  obstetric 
practice  to  prevent  or  arrest  j^ost-partum  haemorrhage  uhich 
sometimes  occurs  in  cows  and  ewes.  If  administered  before 
delivery  of  the  placenta,  ergot  may  give  rise  to  tonic  con- 
traction of  the  womb  and  retention  of  the  afterbirth. 

Ergot  is  of  benefit  in  some  disorders  of  the  unimpreg- 
nated  and  non-parturient  uterus.  Thus  to  aid  the  expulsion 
of  cysts,  and  to  contract  the  uterus  and  its  blood  vessels  in 
hypertrophy,  subinvolution,  chronic  metritis  and  fibroid 
tumors. 

In  paralysis  of  the  bladder,  ergot  is  occasionally  useful 
by  creating  contraction  of  the  muscular  coat  of  its  walls. 
This  condition  is  most  satisfactorily  treated  by  the  injection 
of  an  ordinary  dose  of  ergotin  into  the  empty  urinary  bladder. 

2.  Ergot  is  commonly  recommended  for  combatting 
internal  haemorrhage,  when  surgical  measures  are  impossible. 


COTTON   ROOT  BARK  603 

Under  this  head  may  be  included  bleeding  from  the  nose, 
mouth,  stomach,  intestines,  lungs,  uterus  and  kidneys.  The 
drug  should  usually  be  given  under  the  skin  (ergotin)  in 
these  emergencies. .  It  is,  however,  extremely  doubtful 
whether  the  increase  of  blood  pressure  caused  by  ergot  does 
not  more  than  offset  its  beneficial  action  in  contracting 
vessels  when  used  to  stop  internal  haemorrhage,  and  the  best 
clinicians  to-day  condemn  its  use  and  resort  to  ice  and 
opium  ill  this  condition.  Ergot  may  be  beneficial  in  causing 
constriction  of  the  blood  vessels  in  the  early  stages  of  some 
hypersemias  and  inflammations, — notably  pulmonary,  cere- 
bral and  spinal  congestion,  parturient  apoplexy,  cerebritis, 
cerebro-spinal  meningitis,  spinal  meningitis  and  myelitis ; 
and  in  vasomotor  palsy  following  surgical  shock.  In  most 
of  these  states  (except  the  latter,  where  ergotin  is  indicated, 
under  the  skiu)  ergot  must  be  exhibited  in  very  large  doses 
three  times  daily. 

For  the  same  physiological  reason  that  ergot  is  employed 
as  a  haemostatic,  it  has  been  prescribed  with  alleged  ad- 
vantage in  the  treatment  of  chronic  diarrhoea,  dysentery, 
and  bleeding  piles.  Ergotin  is  injected  between  the  skin 
and  vessel  walls  for  the  cure  of  aneurism  and  varicocele. 
This  treatment  is  of  doubtful  utility. 

GossYPii  Eadicis  Cortex.     Cotton  Eoot  Bark. 

(U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Ecorce  de  racine  de  cottonnier,  Fr.,  baum- 
wollen-wurzelrinde,  G. 

The  bark  of  the  root  of  Gossypium  herbaceum  Linne, 
and  of  other  species  of  Gossypium  (nat.  ord.  Malvaceae). 

Habitat. — Sub-tropical  Africa  and  Asia ;  also  cultivated 
in  the  United  States. 

Description. — In  thin,  flexible  bands  or  quilled  pieces ; 
outer  surface  brownish-yellow,  with  slight,  longitudinal 
ridges  or  meshes,  small,  black,  circular  dots,  or  short,  trans- 
verse  lines,    and   dull  brownish-yellow  patches,   from   the 


604  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

abrasion  of  the  thin  cork ;  inner  surface  whitish,  of  a  silky 
lustre,  finely  striate  ;  bast-fibres  long,  tough  and  separable 
into  papery  layers  ;  inodorous  ;  taste  very  slightly  acrid  and 
faintly  astringent. 

Cotistituents. — 1,  a  fixed  oil ;  2,  a  resin ;  3,  tannic  acid. 

PREPARATION. 

Extractum  Gossypii  Radicis  Fluidum.    Fluid  Extract  of  Cotton 
Root  Bark.     (U.  S,  P). 
Made  by  maceration  and  x)ercolation  with  glycerin  and  alcohol,  and 
evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  the  crude  drug. 

Dose.— H.  &C.,  I  8s.-i.  (15.-30.);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  3  ss.-i.  (2.-4.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Cotton  root  bark  resembles  ergot  in 
its  actions  and  uses,  but  the  drug  has  not  been  scientifically 
studied  in  full  detail.  It  is  an  oxytoxic,  abortifacient,  and 
emmenagogue. 

Cotton  root  bark  is  employed  during  parturition  in 
uterine  inertia,  to  prevent  post-partum  haemorrhage,  to 
induce  abortion,  and  to  arrest  metrorrhagia.  A  decoction 
(5iv.  to  qt.  boiled  down  to  Oi.)  is  said  to  be  more  active 
than  the  fluid  extract.  Dosc—B..  &  C,  Oi.  (500.);  D.,  3  i.-ii. 
(30.-60.). 

Ergot  is  generally  to  be  preferred  as  a  more  thoroughly 
understood  and  reliable  drug. 


SECTION  XVI.— COLCHICUM. 

OoLcmci  Kadix.     Colchicum  Root.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Colchici  cormus,  B.P.;  meadow  saffron  root, 
colchicum  corm,  bulbus  sen  tuber  colchici,  E.;  bulbe  de 
colchique,  de  safran  batard,  Fr.;  zeitlosenknollen,  G. 

The  corm  of  colchicum  autumnale  Linne  (nat.  ord. 
Liliaceae). 

Habitat — England  and  continental  Europe. 

Description. — About  25  Mm.  long,  ovoid,  flattish  and 
with   a    groove    on    one    side ;    externally   brownish    and 


COLCHICUM  605 

wrinkled ;  internally  white  and  solid  ;  often  in  transverse 
slices,  reniform  in  shape,  and  breaking  with  a  short,  mealy- 
fracture  ;  inodorous ;  taste  sweetish,  bitter  and  somewhat 
acrid. 

Constituents. — 1,  the  alkaloid  colchicine  (CoaHjsNOe),  is  the 
active  principle;  it  exists  to  the  extent  of  0.5  per  cent.;  is 
amorphous  or  crystalline,  and  soluble  in  water  and  alcohol ;. 
2,  colchiceine  (CjiHoaNOg),  occurs  naturally  and  is  produced 
artificially  by  the  action  of  acids  on  colchicine ;  slightly 
soluble  in  water,  soluble  in  alcohol ;  3,  sugar ;  4,  starch ; 
5,  gum. 

Incompatibles. — Astringents,  tincture  of  guaiacum  and 
iodine. 

Dose.—m  &  C,  3  ss.-ii.  (2.-8.) ;  Sh.,  gr.x.-xx.  (.6-1.3) ; 
Sw.  &  D.,  gr.ii.-viii.  (.12-.5)  in  powder. 

Dose,— Colchicine— B..  &  C,  gr.|-J  (.01-.03);  D.,  gr.  yfg- 
■^  (.0006-.0012),  by  mouth  or  subcutaneously. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Colchici  Radieis  Fluidum.     Fluid  Extract  of  Colchicum 
Root.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol  and  water,  arid 
evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gra.  of  colchicum  root. 

Dose.—B..  &  C,  3ss.-ii.  (2.-8.);  Sh.,  mx.-xx.  (.6-1.3);  Sw.  &  D., 
mii.-viii.  (.12-.5). 

Vinuvi  Colchici  Radieis.    Wine  of  Colchicum  Root.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  percolation  of  colchicum  root,  400,  with  alcohol,  150 ;  and 
white  wine  to  make  1000. 

Dose. — Twice  that  of  colchicum  root. 

Vinuni  Colchici.     (B.  P.) 
Dose. — Twice  that  of  the  root. 

Colchici  Semen.    Colchicum  Seed.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Colchici  semina,  B.P.;  semences  de  col- 
.chique,  Fr.;  zeitlosensamen,  G.;  semen  colchici,  P.G. 

The  seed  of  Colchicum  autumnale  Linne  (nat.  ord. 
Liliacese). 

Description.  —  Subglobular,  about  2  Mm.  thick,  very 
slightly  pointed  at  the  hilum  ;  reddish-brown,  finely  pitted, 


606  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

internally  whitish  ;  very  hard  and  tough ;  inodorous ;  taste 
bitter  and  somewhat  acrid. 

Constituents. — 1,  colchicine,  3  per  cent.;  2,  colchiceine; 
3,  a  fixed  oil,  6-8  per  cent. ;  4,  starch ;  5,  sugar  ;  6,  gum. 

Dose. — Same  as  root,  or  a  little  larger. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Extractum  Colchici  Seminis  Fluiduvi.    Fluid  Extract  of  Colchicum 
Seed.     (U.S.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  with  alcohol  and  water,  and 
evaporation,  so  that  1  Cc.  =  1  Gm.  of  colchicum  seeds. 
Dose. — Same  as  fluid  extract  of  root. 

Vinum  Colchici  Seminis.    Wine  of  Colchicum  Seed.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Made  by  maceration  of  colchicum  seed,  150  ;  alcohol,  150;  and 
white  wine  to  make  1000. 

Dose.—U.  &C.,  3iii.-!i.  (12.-30.);  D.,  mx.-xxx.  (.6-2.). 

Tinctura  Colchici  Seminis.     Tincture  of  Colchictun  Seed. 
(U.  S.  &B.  P.) 
Made  by  maceration  and  percolation  of  colchicum  seed,  150;  with 
alcohol  and  water  to  make  1000.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.  &C.,  3iii.-3i.  (12..30.);  D.,  mx.-xxx.  (.6-2.). 

Action  External. — Colchicum  is  an  irritant  to  the  skin 
and  mucous  membranes. 

Action  Internal.  —  Digestive  Organs.  —  Colchicum  and 
colchicine  are  identical  in  action  without  regard  to  their 
method  of  introduction  into  the  system.  Colchicum  is 
essentially  a  gastto-intestinal  irritant  in  large  doses.  Small 
therapeutic  quantities  are  cholagogue  and  increase  the  flow 
of  bile.  Full  medicinal  doses  occasion  anorexia,  nausea, 
colicky  pains,  loud  intestinal  rumblings  (borborygmi),  and 
purging.  Colchiceine  appears  to  closely  resemble  colchicine 
physiologically.  Neither  the  circulation,  nervous  system, 
respiration,  nor  temperature  are  affected  by  colchicum  save 
in  poisonous  doses. 

Circulation. — Toxic  doses  reflexly  influence  the  circula- 
tion, but  colchicum  does  not  appear  to  affect  it  directly  until 
late  in  poisoning,  when  the  vagus  endings  become  depressed 


COLCHICUM  607 

and  paralyzed.     Full  medicinal  doses  lower  the  force  and 
frequency  of  the  pulse. 

Nervous  System. — Toxic  quantities  depress  and  paralyze 
the  motor  cells  of  the  inferior  cornua  in  the  spinal  cord, 
and  also  depress  the  sensory  nerves.  The  motor  nerves  and 
muscles  are  unaffected. 

Kidrveys  and  Elimination. — It  is  doubtful  whether  col- 
chicum  exerts  any  decided  or  uniform  action  on  the  kidneys. 
Experiments  relating;  to  this  matter  are  perpiexingly  con- 
flicting. It  is  stated  by  many  authors  that  the  excretion  of 
both  the  organic  and  inorganic  solids  in  the  urine  is 
increased  ;  that  of  urea  more  than  uric  acid. 

Toxicology. — Colchicum  is  a  very  poisonous  drug.  Acci- 
dental lethal  poisoning  occasionally  occurs  among  herbivora 
from  eating  meadow  saffron  at  pasture,  or  in  hay.  In  such 
cases  it  is  naturally  impossible  to  estimate  the  quantity  of 
the  plant  ingested.  Two  and  one-half  drachms  of  the  wine 
of  the  root,  and  one-half  grain  of  the  alkaloid,  have  proved 
fatal  to  man.  Two  drachms  of  the  coim  have  killed  a  dog, 
and  one-tenth  of  a  grain  of  colchicine  has  destroyed  a  cat. 
The  symptoms  of  poisoning  comprise :  anorexia,  nausea, 
dulness,  salivation,  violent  vomiting  (in  carnivora),  purging, 
at  first  watery,  then  mucous  and  often  bloody,  and  accom- 
panied by  great  tenesmus,  tympanites,  and  colic.  There  are 
often  such  nervous  symptoms  as  tremors,  stupor,  coma,  and 
paralysis.  The  animal  becomes  very  weak,  the  respiration 
is  slow  and  feeble,  the  pulse  rapid  and  imperceptible,  the 
skin  is  cold  and  covered  with  a  clammy  sweat,  and  death 
occurs  in  collapse  following  severe  gastro-enteritis.  After 
the  injection  of  large  doses  of  colchicine,  increasing  the 
amount  does  not  aggravate  the  symptoms. 

.Post  Mortem  Apjpearances. — The  mucous  membrane  of 
the  stomach  and  intestines  is  swollen,  congested,  and  eroded. 
Sometimes  free  blood  is  found  within  their  lumen.  There 
is  also  acute  hyperaemia  of  the  kidneys. 

Treatment. — This  consists  in  the  use  of  the  stomach 
pump,  emetics,  and  cathartics,  unless  there  has  been  free 


608  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

purging  and  vomiting.  Tannic  acid  is  the  best  chemical 
antidote,  but  is  not  wholly  satisfactory.  It  should  be  used, 
however.  Demulcents  (oil  and  egg  albumin)  and  opium 
relieve  the  local  irritation,  pain  and  purging.  Stimulants, 
as  atropine,  strychnine,  and  alcohol,  together  with  external 
heat,  combat  collapse. 

Administration. — The  crude  drug  is  not  suitable  for  use. 
The  wine  of  the  root  is  the  best  preparation. 

Uses. — It  is  difficult  to  estimate  the  therapeutic  value  of 
colchicum.  It  is  called  an  alterative  by  many  authorities, 
for  want  of  a  better  term  to  describe  a  drug  whose  physiolog- 
ical actions  do  not  explain  its  medicinal  virtues.  Colchicum 
is  the  most  successful  single  remedy  for  gout  in  human 
medicine,  but  does  not  possess  so  great  a  value  in  veterinary 
practice.  It  is  sometimes  used  with  considerable  advantage 
in  the  treatment  of  subacute  and  chronic  rheumatism,  and  in 
that  form  complicating  influenza  in  horses. 

Potassium  iodidje  is  generally  prescribed  with  colchicum 
in  these  disorders,  and  also  in  pericarditis  and  pleurisy  of 
rheumatic  origin.  Colchicum  is  commonly  believed  to  be 
a  serviceable  diuretic  in  various  diseases  (although  this 
hypothesis  is  not  physiologically  substantiated).  It  is  there- 
fore recommended  in  haernaglobinsemia  and  swelling  of  the 
legs  in  horses ;  in  cerebral  congestion  ;  ascites  ;  pleural  and 
pericardial  effusions,  and  dropsies,  as  an  eliminative.  Col- 
chicine, subcutaneously,  is  especially  lauded  in  rheumatism. 


SECTION  XVII.— VEGETABLE  DKUGS  ACTING 
MECHANICALLY. 

Amylum.     Starch.     CeH^oO^.     (I^.  S,  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Corn  starch,  E.;  fecule  (amidon)  de  froment, 
de  ble,  Fr.;  kraftmehl,  weizenstarke,  G. 

The  fecuia  of  the  seed  of  Zea  Mays  Linne  (nat.  ord. 
Gramineae). 


OIL  OF  THEOBROMA  609 

Habitat — Tropical  Asia  and  Africa,  but  cultivated  in 
tropical,  sub-tropical  and  temperate  countries. 

Description. — In  irregular,  angular  masses,  which  are 
easily  reduced  to  a  fine  powder  ;  white,  inodorous  and  taste- 
less ;  insoluble  in  ether,  alcohol  or  cold  water.  Under  the 
microscope  appearing  as  granules,  nearly  uniform  in  size, 
more  or  less  angular  in  outline,  with  indistinct  striae  and 
with  a  distinct  hilum  near  the  centre. 

Constitzients. — 1,  starch-granulose  ;  2,  starch-cellulose. 

PREPARATION. 

Olyceritum  Amyli.     (Seep.  581). 

Acticm  and  Uses. — Starch  is  a  mechanical  protective 
externally,  used  as  a  dusting  powder,  alone  or  with  zinc 
oxide  (1-4),  in  chafing,  erythema,  and  moist  eczema.  The 
glycerite  of  starch  is  a  serviceable  demulcent.  Boiled  starch 
paste,  mixed  with  glue,  is  used  to  stiffen  bandages  by  paint- 
ing the  mixture  on  in  layers  with  a  brush.  Boiled  starch 
gruel  (2  tablespoons  of  starch  to  a  pint  of  water)  is  a  suitable 
diet  for  diarrhoea,  and  is  frequently  injected  into  the  rectum 
as  a  demulcent  in  diarrhoea  and  dysentery,  and  as  a  vehicle 
for  enemata.  Starch  is  an  antidote  to  iodine.  It  is  utilized 
in  pharmacy  as  a  vehicle  to  suspend  insoluble  powders  or 
oils,  and  in  mucilage  (1-40,  B.P.),  as  a  basis  for  ointments. 
Zinc  oxide,  one  part ;  starch  and  vaseline,  each  3  parts, 
form  a  very  satisfactory  preparation  for  acute  eczema  in 
dogs,  which  does  not  rub  off  so  readily  as  zinc  ointment. 


Oleum  Theobromatis.     Oil  of  Theobroma. 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Butter  of  cacao,  E.;  beurre  de  cacao,  Fr.; 
cacaobutter,  G.;  oleum  (butyrum)  cacao,  P.G. 

A  fixed  oil  expressed  from  the  seed  of  Theobroma  Cacao 
Linne  (nat.  ord.  Sterculiaceae). 

Properties.  —  A  yellowish- white   solid,  having  a  faint, 


610  VEGETABLE  DRUGS 

agreeable  odor,  and  a  bland,  chocolate-like  taste.  Keadily 
soluble  in  ether  or  chloroform. 

Constituents, — 1,  olein  ;  2,  stearin  ;  3,  laurin ;  4,  arachin  • 
5,  glycerides  of  formic,  butyric,  and  acetic  acids. 

Uses.  —  Cacao  butter  melts  at  the  temperature  of  the 
body,  and  is  chiefly  used  as  an  excipient  for  suppositories 
and  electuaries.  It  also  has  a  demulcent  action  and  may  be 
employed  on  raw  surfaces  or  in  inflammation  of  the  throat 
and  digestive  tract 

GossYProM  PuRiFiCATUM.     Purified  Cotton.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Absorbent  cotton,  E.;  bombyx,  lana  gossypii, 
—  coton,  Fr.;  baumwolle,  G. 

The  hairs  of  the  seed  of  Gossypium  herbaceum  Linne, 
and  of  other  species  of  Gossypium  (nat.  ord.  Malvaceae), 
freed  from  adhering  impurities  and  deprived  of  fatty 
matter. 

Habitat. — Tropical  Asia  and  Africa ;  cultivated  in  sub- 
tropical and  tropical  countries,  mostly  in  the  Southern 
United  States. 

Description. — White,  soft,  fine  filaments,  appearing  under 
the  microscope  as  hollow,  flattened  and  twisted  bands, 
spirally  striate  and  slightly  thickened  at  the  edges  ;  inodor- 
ous and  tasteless ;  insoluble  in  ordinary  solvents,  but 
soluble  in  copper  ammonium  sulphate  solution. 

Uses. — Absorbent  cotton  is  used  as  a  cheap,  convenient 
and  cleanly  substitute  for  ordinary  sponges ;  to  make  poult- 
ices by  soaking  it  in  antiseptic  solutions  (as  creolin  1-2  per 
cent.)  and  placing  it  between  layers  of  gauze  ;  and  for  surgi- 
cal dressings. 

Oakum,  consisting  of  the  fibres  of  old  rope,  is  often 
employed  as  a  cheap  absorbent  material,  saturated  with  tar, 
in  packing  horses  feet. 

Tow, — the  coarser  unbleached  fibres  of  flax  ;  and  lint, — 
the  scrapings  of  soft,  loosely  woven  linen, — are  also  utilized 
as  absorbent  substances  for  surgical  purposes. 


PYROXYLIN  611 

Pyroxyunum.     Pyroxylin.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Gun  cotton,  soluble  gun  cotton,  colloxylin. 

Derivation. — Made  by  maceration  of  purified  cotton, 
100 ;  in  a  mixture  of  nitric  acid,  1400 ;  and  sulphuric  acid, 
2200 ;  at  a  temperature  of  32°  C.  (90°  R),  until  a  sample  is 
soluble  in  a  mixture  of  1  volume  of  alcohol  and  3  volumes  of 
ether;  washing  with  cold  and  boiling  water,  draining,  and 
drying  in  small  pellets. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Oollodium.    Collodion.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Pyroxylin,  30;  ether,  750;  alcohol,  250.     Made  by  solution,  agita- 
tion, and  decantation  of  clear  portion. 

CoUodium  Cantharidatum.     ('antharidal  Collodion.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Synonym. — Blistering  collodion. 

Made  by  percolation  of  cantharides,  60  ;  with  chloroform,  distilla- 
tion of  the  chloroform  and  evaporation  of  the  residue  until  it  weighs 
15  (Gm.),  and  solution  in  flexible  collodion,  85. 

Collodium  Flexile.    Flexible  Collodion.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 
Mix  collodion,   920;  Canada  turpentine,   50;  and  castor  oil,  30. 
(U.S.  P.) 

Collodium  Stypticum.    Styptic  Collodion.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Mix  tannic  acid,  20;  alcohol,  5;  ether,  25;  add  collodion  to  make 
100, 

Action  and  Uses. — Collodion,  when  painted  on  dry  skin, 
rapidly  dries  and  leaves  a  thin,  protective  coating.  It  is  a 
useful  agent  to  seal  and  secure  coaptation  of  small  wounds 
and  to  keep  them  aseptic.  Also  to  protect  abraded  surfaces, 
as  fissures  of  teats.  Flexible  collodion  is  less  apt  to  crack. 
Collodion  contracts  the  superficial  tissues  and  will  often 
abort  boils  when  applied  directly  over  them.  Collodion  is 
employed  as  a  vehicle  for  the  application  of  many  other 
agents,  as  corrosive  sublimate,  carbolic  acid,  iodoform,  etc. 

EuPHORBiUM.     Euphorbium.     (Non-official.) 

The  dried  juice  of  a  cactus-like  plant,  Euphorbium 
resinifera,  growing  in  Morocco  and  regions  contiguous  to  the 


612  AGENTS  OF  ANIMAL  ORIGIN 

Atlas  Mountains.  Obtained  by  incising  the  stems  and 
branches. 

Dtscription. — In  dull  yellowish  tears,  of  the  size  of  peas; 
odorless  ;  taste  acrid ;  powder  of  a  grayish  color  ;  insoluble 
in  water,  but  soluble  in  alcohol,  ether  and  oil  of  turpentine. 

Constituents. — 1,  an  acrid  resin  (CjoHgoOJ,  38  per  cent.,^ 
the  active  principle  ;  2,  euphorbon. 

Action  and  Uses. — Enphorbium  is  an  intense  irritant, 
both  externally  and  internally.  It  is  sometimes  employed 
in  veterinary  medicine  as  a  constituent  of  resicating  prepara- 
tions to  enhance  their  effect,  but  if  applied  alone  it  is  liable 
to  cause  extensive  irritation,  sloughiug,  and  destruction  of 
tissue.  Euphorbium  may,  however,  be  safely  applied  in 
tincture  (1-16),  or  in  ointment  with  cantharides,  as  a  vesicant 
for  horses.  The  following  combination  is  recommended  as 
a  powerful  blister  for  the  latter  animals.  Euphorbium  and 
cantharides,  each  two  parts  ;  corrosive  sublimate,  one  part; 
vaseline,  8  parts ;  cerate,  twelve  parts.  There  is  no  danger 
of  absorption  and  genito-uriuary  inflammation  from  the 
use  of  euphorbium,  as  with  cantharides. 


SECTION  XVIII. -MEDICINAL  AGENTS  OF 
ANIMAL  ORIGIN. 

Cantharis.     Cantharides.     (U.  S.  &B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Spanish  flies,  blister  beetles,  muscse  hispan- 
ic8B,  E.;  cantharides,  Fr.;  spanische  fliegen,  canthariden,  G.; 
cantharides,  P.G. 

Cantharis  is  the  beetle,  Cantharis  vesicatoria  De  Geer 
(class  Insecta  ;  order  Coleoptera). 

Habitat.  —  Southern  Europe,  Germany  and  Russia ; 
living  chiefly  on  Oleacese  and  Caprifoliacese. 

Description. — About  25  Mm.  long  and  6  Mm.  broad  ; 
flattish  cylindrical,  with  filiform  antennae,  black  in  the  upper 
part,  and   with  long  wing-cases,  and  ample,  membranous. 


CANTHARIDES  *  613 

transparent,  brownish  wings,  elsewhere  of  a  shining,  coppery- 
green  color.  The  powder  is  grayish-brown,  and  contains 
green  shining  particles.  Odor  strong,  and  disagreeable; 
taste  slight,  afterwards  acrid. 

Constituents.  —  1,  the  active  principle  is  cantharidin, 
C10H12O4  (2  per  cent.),  in  colorless  scales,  insoluble  in  water, 
soluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  oils,  acetic  acid  and 
acetic  ether ;  it  is  found  chiefly  in  the  generative  organs, 
eggs,  and  blood  of  the  beetles  ;  2,  a  volatile  oil ;  3,  a  bland, 
green  oil ;  4,  acetic  and  uric  acids,  extractives  and  salts ; 
cantharides  deteriorates  with  age  and  should  be  kept 
unpowdered  in  tightly  stoppered  bottles. 

Dose.—R.  &  C,  gr.v.-xx.  (.3-1.3);  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.iv.^viii. 
(.24..5) ;  D.,  gr.i.-ii.  (.06-.12). 

PREPARATION. 

Tinctura  Cantharidis,    Tincture  of  Cantharides.    (U.  S.  P.) 
Made  by  percolation  of  cantharides,  50;  with  alcohol  to  ma£:e 
1000.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Dose.— H.&C,  3ii.-iv.  (8.-15.);  D.,  mii.-xv.  (.12-1.). 

Action  External. — Cantharides,  by  virtue  of  cantharidin, 
is  an  intense  irritant.  When  applied  to  the  skin  in  ointment 
it  produces  no  effect  for  several  hours,  but  after  that  time 
causes  dilatation  of  the  cutaneous  vessels,  hypersemia,  and 
blisters,  which  appear  in  from  3  to  12  hours.  The  blisters 
soon  break,  discharge  their  serous  contents,  and  then  dry 
and  crust  the  surface.  If  the  action  of  cantharides  is  main- 
tained continuously;  if  the  application  is  repeated,  or 
covered  with  a  bandage;  or -if  the  skin  was  previously 
inflamed,  then  inflammation  of  the  deeper-seated  parts 
ensues,  followed  by  suppuration,  sloughing,  loss  of  tissue, 
destruction  of  hair  follicles,  and  scars.  The  drug  is  thera- 
peutically a  rubefacient  and  vesicant,  and  counter-irritant, 
in  occasioning  dilatation  of  the  superficial  vessels,  and 
reflexly,  contraction  of  those  in  the  remote  underlying  parts. 
Cantharides  acts  more  powerfully  on  the  skin  of  horses  and 
dogs,  than  on  that  of  cattle  and  swine.  If  applied  over  an 
extensive  surface,  absorption  and  poisoning  may  occur. 


614  AGENTS   OF  ANIMAL   ORIGIN 

Action  Internal, — Cantharides  affects  mainly  the  diges- 
tive and  genito-urinary  tracts.  It  is  a  violent  gastro-intes- 
tinal  irritant.  Toxic  doses  cause  vomiting,  in  animals 
capable  of  the  act,  at  first  bilious  (and  containing  gref^nish 
specks  of  the  wings  and  wing  cases),  then  mucous,  and  finally 
bloody.  There  is  purging  in'  all,  associated  with  great  pain 
and  straining,  of  a  mucous,  fibrinous,  and  often  haemorrhagic 
character.  There  are  salivation,  swelling  and  pain  in  the 
salivary  glands.  The  gastro-enteritis  is  accompanied  by 
general  prostration,  and  feeble,  rapid  pulse.  A  few  hours 
after  the  occurrence  of  the  preceding  symptoms  there  is 
enough  absorption  of  cantharidin  to  induce  lumbar  pain, 
followed  by  frequent,  scanty  and  painful  micturition  (stran- 
gury). The  urine  is  albuminous  and  often  bloody.  Can- 
tharides is  eliminated  chiefly  by  the  kidneys,  but  also  to 
some  extent  by  the  other  excretory  organs,  including  the 
skin.  Sexual  excitement  may  be  present  in  poisoning.  It 
is  more  common  with  small  than  large  toxic  doses.  There 
are  erections  and  great  heat  in  the  penis,  and  even  inflam- 
mation and  sloughing  of  the  organ.  Abortion  is  precipitated 
in  the  pregnant,  and  "  heat "  is  hastened  in  the  non- 
pregnant female.  Stupor,  coma,  and  collapse  close  the  scene 
after  lethal  doses.  Twenty  grains  of  cantharides  have  killed 
a  man  ;  forty,  a  dog ;  and  one  drachm  has  destroyed  a  horse. 

The  treatment  includes  the  use  of  emetics  or  the  stomach 
pump ;  opium,  to  relieve  pain  and  strangury ;  albuminous, 
mucilaginous  drinks ;  and,  in  collapse,  external  heat,  alco- 
holic stimulants,  strychnine  ^nd  atropine  under  the  skin. 
Oils  and  fats  dissolve  cantharidin  and  must  not  be  given  in 
poisoning  as  demulcents. 

Post  Mortem  Appearances. — Swelling,  congestion,  ecchy- 
moses,  and  erosion  of  the  gastro-intestinal  mucous  membrane 
are  observed  after  death  by  cantharides.  There  are,  more- 
over, lesions  of  acute  nephritis  and  cystitis,  with  inflam- 
mation of  the  whole  genito-urinary  mucous  membrane. 
Hypersemia  of  the  brain  and  spinal  cord  have  also  been 
reported. 


CANTHA.RIDES  615 

Uses  External. — Cantharides  is  employed  more  frequently 
than  any  other  counter-irritant,  to  cause  blistering,  in  veter- 
inary practice.  The  reader  is  referred  to  the  section  on 
counter-irritants  (p.  665)  for  an  account  of  their  actions. 
The  action  of  cantharides  is  too  tardy  and  irritating,  and 
there  is  too  much  danger  of  absorption  and  poisoning  to 
recommend  it  for  the  production  of  counter-irritation  over 
an  extensive  area  (chest  and  abdomen)  in  acute  pulmonary 
congestion,  pneumonia,  bronchitis,  colic,  enteritis  and 
peritonitis.  Mustard,  turpentine,  and  external  heat  are 
generally  preferable  in  these  disorders. 

A  blister  of  cantharid*es  is  serviceable  in  pericarditis 
and  pleuritis  with  effusion,  and,  applied  over  the  throat  in 
severe,  acute  laryngitis,  may  obviate  the  necessity  of  tracheo- 
tomy. Again,  blisters  are  useful  on  the  poll  in  inflammation 
of  the  brain  and  its  membranes ;  and  over  the  spine  in 
myelitis  and  meningitis ;  over  the  lumbar  region  in  para- 
plegia. 

A  cantharidal  application  is  often  efficacious  in  muscular 
or  joint  rheumatism  when  placed  over  the  affected  area,  or 
near  by,  in  acute  conditions.  Furthermore,  a  cantharides 
blister  is  of  advantage  in  acute  diseases  of  the  ear,  Vt?^hen 
rubbed  in  above  and  behind  this  organ  ;  and  will  relieve 
pain  in  the  stomach,  and  vomiting  when  applied  to  the 
epigastrium. 

Cantharides  is  the  remedy  usually  employed  in  the 
treatment  of  diseases  of  the  bones,  joints,  bursae,  ligaments, 
and  tendons.  In  exostoses,  as  spavin  and  ringbone,  the 
ointment  is  used  most  effectively  after  the  actual  cautery,  to 
secure  absorption  and  resolution,  or  anchylosis.  Cantharidal 
ointment  is  often  sufficient,  together  with  complete  rest,  in 
the  treatment  of  synovitis,  and  strains  of  tendons  and  liga- 
ments. A  cantharides  blister  is  sometimes  beneficial  in 
hastening  the  formation  of  abscess,  ("  strangles  ");  or  to  aid 
their  resolution  after  paracentesis  ;  also  to  stimulate  indolent 
ulcers  or  wounds ;  and  to  assist  absorption  of  traumatic 
indurations,  when  applied  around  these  lesions.    The  actual 


616  AGENTS   OF  ANIMAL  ORIGIN 

cautery,  followed  by  a  cantharides  blister,  will  cause  sweil- 
iug  aod  close  the  opening  in  tlie  abdominal  parietes  of  small 
umbilical  hernias  of  foals  and  caWes. 

Likewise,  blisters  are  valuable  in  closing  and  sealing 
punctured  wounds  into  joints  and  synovial  cavities.  Can- 
tharides is  commonly  employed  in  ointment  (1  to  4-8)  made 
by  melting  and  mixing  the  excipients  in  a  double  boiler ; 
i.e.,  over  a  water  bath,  and  stirring  in  thoroughly  the 
powdered  drug.     The  following  is  a  good  preparation  : 

9 

Pulv.  Cantharidis. 

Cerae  flav *. .    aa§ii. 

Adipis I  xiv. 

M. 

S.     External  use. 

More  powerful  ointments  are  made  with  powdered  euphor- 
biiim  and  cantharides,  each  2  parts ;  corrosive  sublimate,  1 
part ;  vaseline,  8  parts  ;  cerate,  12  parts  ;  or, 

Tar  and  resin,  each  4  parts  ;  yellow  wax,  3  parts  ;  cotton- 
seed oil,  10  parts  ;  powdered  euphorbium,  2  parts ;  canthar- 
ides, 6  parts. 

The  technique  of  blistering  consists  in  cutting  the  hair 
and  washing  the  part  to  be  blistered,  and  rubbing  the 
blister  long  and  thoroughly  into  the  skin.  The  animal  should 
be  controlled  by  tying  up  the  head,  or  using  a  cradle,  or 
side-bar  attached  to  the  halter  and  surcingle,  to  prevent 
horses  from  biting  the  blistered  area.  The  tail  should  be 
tied  up  if  the  blister  is  applied  within  its  reach.  Dogs 
should  be  muzzled,  but  are  apt  to  rub  the  sore  spot.  The 
serum  discharged  from  the  blister  must  be  continually 
sponged  off  with  soap  suds  and  water,  to  prevent  excoriation 
of  the  subadjacent  skin,  or  the  latter  may  be  covered  with  a 
solution  of  resin  in  alcohol,  by  means  of  a  brush. 

The  blister  is  washed  off  in  36  or  48  hours  after  its 
application,  and  vaselinie  should  thereafter  be  kept  on  the 
part.  The  use  of  cantharidal  blisters  is  contraindicated  in 
weak  or  young  animals  ;  on  the  flexures  of  joints ;  or  deli- 


LARD  617 

cate  skin  on  the  inner  aspect  of  the  upper  part  of  the  limbs  ; 
on  acutely  inflamed  areas  ;  and  in  renal  disease. 

Uses  Internal.  —  Cantharides  is  rarely  administered 
internally.  It  is  sometimes  successful  in  stopping  incon- 
tinence of  urine,  when  due  to  relaxation  of  the  neck  of  the 
bladder,  and  it  may  be  used  as  a  stimulant  in  chronic 
cystitis  and  pyelitis.  Cantharides  is  recommended  to 
increase  sexual  desire  in  cows  and  mares,  but  it  has  usually 
to  be  given  in  toxic  doses  to  produce  an  aphrodisiac  action. 
The  tincture  should  be  employed  when  the  drug  is  exhibited 
internally. 

Adeps.     Lard.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym, —  Adeps  prseparatus,  B.P.;  axungia,  axungia 
porci  s.  porcina,  prepared  lard,  hog's  lard,  E-.;  axonge, 
graisse  de  pore,  Fr.;  schweineschmalz,  G.;  adeps  suil- 
lus,  P.  G. 

The  prepared  internal  fat  of  the  abdomen  of  Sus  Scrofa 
Linne  (class  Mammalia ;  order  Pachydermata),  purified  by 
washing  with  water,  melting,  and  straining. 

Properties. — A  soft,  white,  unctuous  solid,  having  a  faint 
odor  free  from  rancidity,  and  a  bland  taste ;  insoluble  in 
water  ;  slightly  soluble  in  alcohol ;  readily  soluble  in  ether, 
chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  or  benzin.  Spec.  gr.  about 
0.932. 

PREPARATIONS. 

Ceratum,    Cerate.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Cerat  simple,  Fr.;  einfaches  cerat,  wachssalbe,  G. 
White  wax,  300;  lard,  700. 

Unguentum.     Ointment.     (U.  S,  P.) 

Synonym.  —  Unguentum  simplex,  B.P.;  simple  ointment,  E.; 
pommade  simple,  Fr.;  wachssalbe,  G.  Lard,  800;  yellow  wax,  200. 
(U.  S.  P.) 

Ceratum  Resince,     (See  p.  482. ) 
Adeps  Benzoinatus.     (Seep.  484.) 


618  AGENTS   OF  ANIMAL  ORIGIN    • 

Sevum.     Suet 

« 

Synonym. — Sevum  prgeparatum,  B.P.;  mutton  suet,  E.; 
suif,  Fr.;  talg,  hammeltalg,  G.;  sebum,  P.G. 

The  internal  fat  of  the  abdomen  of  Ovis  aries  Linne 
(class  Mammalia ;  order  Ruminantia),  purified  by  melting 
and  straining. 

Prop€7't{es. — A  white,  solid  fat,  nearly  inodorous,  and 
having  a  bland  taste  when  fresh,  but  becoming  rancid  on 
prolonged  exposure  to  the  air.  Insoluble  in  water  or  cold 
alcohol ;  soluble  in  about  60  parts  of  ether,  and  slowly  in  2 
parts  of  benzin. 

Constituents. — 1,  olein ;  2,  stearin  ;  3,  palmitin  ;  4,  hircin. 

Adeps  Lan^  Hydrosus.    Hydrous  Wool  Fat.    (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Lanolin,  oesypum. 

The  purified  fat  of  the  wool  of  sheep  (Ovis  aries,  Linne  ; 
class  Mammalia ;  order  Ruminantia),  mixed  with  not  more 
than  30  per  cent,  of  water. 

Properties. — A  yellowish- white,  or  nearly  white  ointment- 
like mass,  having  a  faint,  peculiar  odor.  Insoluble  in  water, 
but  miscible  with  twice  its  weight  of  the  latter,  without 
losing  its  ointment-like  character. 

Constituents. — 1,  cholesterin,  CjgH^s  (OH);  2,  ethers  of 
oleic,  stearic,  palmitic  and  other  acids. 

action  and  use  of  lard,  suet,  and  hydrous  wool  fat. 

Lard  is  used  mainly  as  a  basis  of  ointments  and  cerates^ 
Benzoin  is  commonly  added  to  it  to  prevent  or  retard  ran- 
cidity. Lard  is  inferior  to  petrolatum  as  a  lubricant.  It  is 
rarely  given  internally  as  an  antidote  to  caustic  alkalies,  and 
as  a  demulcent 

Suet  is  contained  in  certain  ointments  and  plasters.  It 
is  harder  than  lard  and  becomes  rancid  on  prolonged 
exposure.  Lanolin  is  not  subject  to  rancidity,  but  possesses 
no    particular    medicinal    action.     It    is  indicated  where 


4 


YELLOW   WAX  619 

absorption  of  some  drug  is  desired  (mercury,  potassium 
iodide)  by  inunction,  as  it  is  believed  to  be  more  readily 
absorbed  from  the  skin  than  any  other  fat.  Lanolin  is  used 
as  a  basis  of  ointments. 


Cera  Flava.    Yellow  Wax.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Cera  citrina,  beeswax,  B.P.;  cire  jaune,  Fr.; 
gelbes  wachs,  G. 

A  peculiar,  concrete  substance  prepared  by  Apis  melli- 
fica  Linne  (class  Insecta  ;  order  Hymenoptera). 

Properties.  —  A  yellowish  to  brownish-yellow  solid, 
having  an  agreeable,  honey-like  odor,  and  faint,  balsamic 
taste.  Spec.  gr.  0.955-0.967.  It  is  brittle  when  cold;  by  the 
heat  of  the  hand  it  becomes  plastic.  Insoluble  in  alcohol; 
sparingly  soluble  in  cold  alcohol,  but  completely  soluble  in 
ether,  chloroform,  fixed  and  volatile  oils. 

Constituents.  —  1,  myricin  or  myrical  palmitate  (CgoHgi, 
CigHgiOa),  a  spermaceti-like  substance ;  2,  cerin  or  cerotic 
acid  (C27H54O2),  an  imperfectly  saponifiable  waxy  body ;  3, 
hydrocarbons  (C27II56  and  Q>J3.^\  4,  an  alcohol  (CasHgjO) ;  5, 
ceryl  alcohol  {Q^^13.^fi)' 


Cera  Alba.    White  Wax.    (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Cire  blanche,  Fr.;  weisses  wachs,  G. 

Yellow  wax,  bleached  by  exposure  to  air,  light  and 
moisture. 

Properties. — A  yellowish-white  solid,  somewhat  trans- 
lucent in  thin  layers,  having  a  slightly  rancid  odor,  and  an 
insipid  taste.  Spec.  gr.  0.965-0.975.  Solubility  and  com- 
position the  same  as  those  of  yellow  wax. 

Uses. — Yellow  and  white  wax  are  used  as  bases  for 
plasters,  ointments  and  cerates,  since  they  do  not  decompose 
nor  melt  at  the  temperature  of  the  body. 


620  AGENTS   OF  ANIMAL  ORIGIN 

Cetaceum.     Spermaceti.     (U.  S.  <fe  B.  P.) 

A  peculiar,  concrete,  fatty  substance,  obtained  from  (the 
sperm  whale)  Physeter  macrocephalus  Linne  (class  Mam- 
malia ;  order  Cetacea). 

Habitat. — Indian  and  Pacific  Oceans. 

Froperties.  —  White,  somewhat  translucent,  slightly 
unctuous  masses  of  a  scaly-crystalline  fracture  and  a  pearly 
lustre  ;  odorless,  and  having  a  bland,  mild  taste.  It  becomes 
yellow  and  rancid  by  exposure  to  the  air.  Spec.  gr.  about 
0.945.  Insoluble  in  water,  nearly  so  in  cold  alcohol ;  soluble 
in  ether,  chloroform,  carbon  disulphide,  fixed  and  volatile 
oils. 

Gonstittienf^. — 1,  chiefly  a  fat,  cetin  or  cetyl  palmitate 
(CigHjaCieHjiOo),  composed  of  cetylic  alcohol  (CieHjgOH)  and 
palmitic  acid  (HCigHsiOj);  2,  sperm  oil,  a  small  quantity. 

PREPARATION. 

Ceratum  Cefacei.    Spermaceti  Cerate.     (U.  S.  P.) 
Spermaceti,  100;  white  wax,  350 ;  olive  oil,  550.     Made  by  melting 
and  mixing. 

Unguentum  Cetacei.     (B.  P.) 

Action  and  Uses. — Spermaceti  resembles  wax.  It  is  used 
as  an  emollient  and  as  a  basis  for  plasters,  ointments,  and 
cerates.     It  is  rarely  used  alone. 

Mel.     Honey.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Miel,  Fr.;  honig,  G. 

A  saccharine  secretion  deposited  in  the  honeycomb  by 
Apis  mellifica  Linne  (class  lusecta  ;  order  Hymenoptera). 

Froperties. — A  syrupy  liquid  of  a  bright  yellowish  to  a 
pale-yellowish-brown  color;  translucent  when  fresh,  but 
gradually  becoming  opaque  and  crystalline ;  having  a  char- 
acteristic, aromatic  odor,  and  a  sweet,  faintly  acrid  taste. 
Nearly  soluble  in  water. 

Constituents. — 1,  grape  sugar  (dextrose);  2,  fruit  sugar 
(glucose);  3,  a  volatile  oil ;  4,  wax ;  5,  formic  acid>  a  trace. 


I 


SUGAR   OF  MILK  621 

Fresh  honey  contains  sucrose  or  cane  sugar,  which  is  changed 
into  grape  and  fruit  sugars, 

PREPARATION. 

Mel  Despumatum.     Clarified  Honey.     (XJ.  S.  P.) 

Synonym.— Mel  depuratum,  B.P.;  P.G.;  miel  despume,  mellite 
simple,  Fr. ;  gereinigter  honig,  G. 

Derivation.— Melt  honey  with  two  per  cent,  of  its  weight  of  paper- 
pulp  in  water  bath ;  skim,  strain,  and  add  five  per  cent,  of  its  weijght  of 
glycerin. 

•  Dose. — Ad  lib. 

Honey  is  employed  as  an  excipient  in  electuaries  and 
confections.  It  is  a  demulcent  and  mild  laxative  for  young 
animals.  Oxymel  (clarified  honey,  8  parts  ;  water  and  acetic 
acid,  each  1  part)  is  a  soothing  preparation  for  the  throat. 


Saccharum  Lactis.     Sugar  of  Milk.     {C^,K,,0,,  +  H2O.) 
(U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Lactose,  lactin,  milk  sugar,  E.;  sucre  de  lait, 
Fr.;  milchzucker,  G. 

A  peculiar,  crystalline  sugar  obtained  from  the  whey  of 
cows'  milk,  by  evaporation,  and  purified  by  recrystallization. 

Properties. — White,  hard,  crystalline  masses,  yielding  a 
white  powder,  feeling  gritty  on  the  tongue;  odorless,  and 
having  a  faintly  sweet  taste.  Permanent  in  the  air.  Soluble 
in  about  6  parts  of  water ;  insoluble  in  alcohol,  ether,  or 
chloroform. 

Dose. — Ad  lib. 

Uses. — Sugar  of  milk  is  less  soluble  and  therefore  less 
sweet  than  cane  sugar.  It  is  harder,  and  thus  assists  in  the 
subdivision  of  drugs,  and  serves  as  a  vehicle  in  the  making 
of  powders  and  triturates.  It  also  forms  the  basis  of  homoeo- 
pathic preparations. 

Sugar  of  milk  is  a  considerable  diuretic  and  may  be 
given  to  dogs  in  2  to  4  drachm  doses  daily,  in  solution  in  the 
drinking  water,  for  dropsy  of  renal  or  cardiac  origin. 


AGENTS   OF  ANIMAL  ORIGIN 

Pepsinum.     Pepsin.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

A  proteolytic  fermeilt  or  enzyme  obtained  from  the 
glandular  layer  of  fresh  stomachs  from  healthy  pigs,  and 
capable  of  digesting  not  less  than  3000  times  its  own  weight 
of  freshly  coagulated  and  disintegrated  egg  albumin. 

Derivation. — The  chopped  mucous  membrane  of  a  pig's 
stomach  is  macerated  for  several  days  in  a  weak,  aqueous 
solution  of  hydrochloric  acid,  with  frequent  stirring.  The 
pepsin  is  precipitated  from  this  solution  by  the  addition  of 
sodium  chloride  and  rises  to  the  surface.  The  floating  mix- 
ture is  skimmed  off,  drained,  pressed,  and  dried.  Sometimes 
the  surface  of  the  clean  mucous  membranes  of  the  stomach 
of  pigs,  calves,  or  sheep  is  simply  scraped  off  and  dried. 

Properties. — A  fine,  white,  or  yellowish-white,  amorphous 
powder,  or  thin,  pale  yellow  or  yellowish,  transparent  or 
.translucent  grains  or  scales,  free  from  any  offensive  odor, 
and  having  a  mildly  acidulous  or  slightly  saline  taste, 
usually  followed  by  a  suggestion  of  bitterness.  It  slowly 
attracts  moisture  when  exposed  to  the  air.  Soluble,  or  for 
the  most  part  soluble,  in  about  100  ^^arts  of  water,  with  more 
or  less  opalescence  ;  more  soluble  in  water  acidulated  with 
hydrochloric  acid ;  insoluble  in  alcohol,  ether  or  chloroform. 

Dose. — D.,  Calves  and  Foals,  gr.x.-  3  i.  (.6-4). 

PREPARATION. 

Pepsinum  saccharatum  (pepsin,  1 ;  sugar  of  milk,  9)  is  a  weak  pre- 
paration of  little  value. 

Action  and  Uses. — Pepsin  is  of  some  value  in  the  treat- 
ment of  dogs  and  young  animals.  It  assists  the  digestion  of 
proteids  in  the  stomach,  but  has  no  action  on  fat  or  carbo- 
hydrates of  the  food.  The  drug  should  usually  be  given 
along  with  hydrochloric  acid,  which  converts  any  pepsinogen, 
in  the  gastric  tubules,  into  pepsin.  Pepsin  contains  the 
unorganized  digestive  ferment  of  the  gastric  juice,  but  is  not 
by  any  means  the  pure  ferment,  which  has  never  been 
isolated. 


PANCREATIN  623 

Much  of  the  commercial  pepsin  is  inert,  or  is  composed 
largely  of  diucus,  albumin  and  peptone,  which  later  gives  the 
preparation  a  musty  odor  and  causes  it  to  absorb  moisture 
when  exposed  to  the  air,  and  to  become  sticky. 

Pepsin  is  serviceable  in  gastric  indigestion  of  young 
animals,  which  is  sometimes  accompanied  by  diarrhoea,  and 
in  dyspepsia  and  feeble  digestion  caused  by  acute  illness. 
Its  use  must  not  be  loug  persisted  in,  as  the  normal 
functions  of  the  stomach  will  fail  from  lack  of  use. 
Pepsin  is  administered  in  pill,  or  solution  with  hydrochloric 
acid. 

Pangreatinum.     Pancreatin.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Zymine,  B.P. 

A  mixture  of  the  enzymes  naturally  existing  in  the  pan- 
creas of  warm-blooded  animals,  usually  obtained  from  the 
fresh  pancreas  of  the  hog  (Sus  Scrofa  Linne ;  class  Mam- 
malia ;  order  Pachydermata). 

Derivation. — Chopped  hog's  pancreas  is  macerated  in  a 
dilute  aqueous  solution  of  hydrochloric  acid  for  48  hours, 
and  pancreatin,  which  is  separated  by  adding  a  saturated 
solution  of  sodium  chloride,  rises  to  the  surface  and  is 
skimmed  off,  drained,  washed,  and  when  nearly  dry,  is 
diluted  with  sugar  of  milk  until  10  grains  will  exactly 
emulsify  2  drachms  of  cod-liver  oil. 

Properties.  —  A  yellowish,  yellowish-white  or  grayish, 
amorphous  powder;  odorless,  or  having  a  faint,  peculiar, 
not  unpleasant  odor,  and  a  somewhat  meat-like  taste.  Slowly 
and  almost  completely  soluble  in  water  ;  insoluble  in  alcohol. 

Dose. — D.,  gr.v.-xv.  (.3-1.). 

Action  and  Uses. — Pancreatin  fulfils  a  fourfold  function 
by  virtue  of  the  four  ferments  contained  in  it.  It  digests 
proteids  by  means  of  the  ferment,  trypsin;  it  decomposes 
and  emulsifies  fat  owing  to  the  ferment,  steapsin;  it  converts 
starch  into  sugar  by  reason  of  the  ferment,  amylopsin ;  it 
coagulates  milk  through  the  action  of  a  milk-curcHing  fer- 


T' 


624  AGENTS   OF  ANIMAL   ORIGIN 

merit.   Pancreatin  is  thus  more  useful  than  pepsin  on  account 
of  its  more  extended  actions. 

It  does  not  digest  food  in  an  acid  medium,  but  may  aid 
digestion  in  the  stomach,  before  much  gastric  juice  has  been 
secreted,  during  the  first  half  hour  after  the  ingestion  of 
food.  Pancreatin  acts  more  efficiently  in  intestinal  indiges- 
tion because  of  the  presence  of  an  alkaline  secretion.  For 
this  reason  paticreatin  is  commonly  prescribed  with  sodium 
bicarbonate,  and,  if  given  for  intestinal  indigestion,  it  is 
administered  in  pill  or  tablet  to  dogs  one  or  two  hours  after 
feeding.  It  is  indicated  in  diarrhoea,  when  the  faecal  move- 
ments contain  particles  of  undigested  food,  and  in  other 
forms  of  deficient  digestion  due  to  general  disease.  Pan- 
creatin is  more  especially  valuable  to  digest  food  previous  to 
its  administration  by  the  mouth  or  rectum  (see  Artificial 
Feeding,  p.  663.)  For  this  purpose  a  good  preparation  can  be 
made  extemporaneously  by  washing  and  cutting  up  a  fresh 
pig's  pancreas,  soaking  it  in  absolute  alcohol  for  24  hours, 
pressing  out  the  alcohol,  macerating  it  in  ten  times  its  weight 
of  glycerin  for  48  hours,  and  filtering.  The  filtered  glycerin 
extract  is  added  in  the  proportion  of  3  i-  to  the  pint  of  warm 
milk,  with  a  little  sodium  bicarbonate,  to  artificially  digest  it. 

Fel  Bovis.     Oxgall.     (U.  S.  P.) 

Synonym. — Fel  tauri,  inspissated  oxgall,  E. 

The  fresh  bile  of  Bos  Taurus  Linne  (class  Mammalia ; 
order  Buminantia). 

Properties. — A  brownish-green  or  dark  green,  somewhat 
viscid  liquid,  having  a  peculiar,  unpleasant  odor,  and  a  dis- 
agreeable, bitter  taste.  Spec.  gr.  1.018  to  1.028.  It  is 
neutral,  or  has  a  slightly  alkaline  reaction. 

Dose, — D.,  gr.v.-xv.  (.3-1.). 

PREPARATION. 

Fel  Bovis  Purificatum.    Purified  Oxgall.     (XJ.  S.  P.) 
Synonym. — Fel  bovinum  purificatum,  B.P.;  fiel  de  boeuf  purifie, 
Fr.;  gereinigte  ochsengalle  (rindsgalle),  G. 


PAPAIN  6*25 

Evaporate  oxgall,  300,  to  100;  add  alcohol,  100.  The  alcohol  is  dis- 
tilled off  from  the  decanted  and  filtered  solution,  and  the  remainder 
evaporated  to  pilular  consistence. 

Properties. — A  yellowish-greeh,  soft  solid,  having  a  peculiar  odor 
and  a  partly  sweet  and  partly  bitter  taste.  Very  soluble  in  water  and 
alcohol. 

Dose. — Same  as  for  oxgall. 

Action  and  Uses. — Purified  oxgall  contains  all  the  active 
elements  of  bile, — biliary  acids,  coloring  matter  and  choles- 
terin.  One  part  of  oxgall  represents  about  fifteen  parts  of 
bile.  Oxgall  is  a  laxative,  and  substitute  for  deficiency  in 
the  nt)rmal  biliary  secretion.  It  is  also  an  intestinal  antisep- 
tic. Oxgall  is  indicated  in  constipation  with  pale-colored 
faeces.  It  interferes  with  gastric  digestion  and  should  be 
given  to  dogs  in  pills  some  hours  after  meals.  Twenty 
grains  dissolved  in  an  ounce  or  two  of  water  may  be  given 
with  advantage  to  dogs  (in  enema)  for  chronic  constipation 
with  impacted  faeces. 

Papain.     (Non-official.) 

Synonym. — Papayotine,  papaya,  papayine,  papoid. 

A  digestive  ferment  obtained  from  the  juice  of  the 
unripe  fruit  of  Carica  papaya  (Papaw),  an  herbaceous  tree 
growing  in  the  East  and  West  Indies.  Papain  or  papayotine 
are  often  used  to  describe  the  dried  juice  itself,  which  exists 
in  the  form  of  a  powder  similar  to  that  of  gum  arable.  The 
ferment  is  precipitated  with  alcohol,  from  the  juice,  and 
albuminoid  matters  are  removed  by  basic  lead  acetate. 
Papain  occurs  in  the  form  of  a  white,  or  grayish-white,  nearly 
tasteless  powder,  soluble  in  glycerin  and  water.  Papain  is 
said  to  digest  both  proteids  and  carbohydrates,  in  either  an 
acid  or  alkaline  medium,  and  is  recommended  in  gastric  or 
intestinal  indigestion  in  pill  or  powder.  It  has  also  been 
used  to  destroy  pyogenic  membrane  of  fistulse  and  abscess, 
in  5  per  cent,  solution ;  or  tumors  and  malignant  growths, 
injected  into  the  tissues  in  10  per  cent,  solution.  This  latter 
use    is    accompanied    by    pain    and    febrile    temperature, 


626  AGENTS   OF  ANIMAL  ORIGIN 

although  the  substance  is  said  to  merely  dissolve  diseased 
tissues  without  caustic  effect.  Papain  may  be  given  to  dogs, 
foals,  or  calves  in  doses  of  gr.ii.-x.  (.12-.6).  Its  exact  thera- 
peutic value  has  yet  to  be  determined. 


Oleum  Morrhu^.     Cod  Liver  Oil.     (U.  S.  &  B.  P.) 

Synonym. — Oleum  jecoris  ascelli,  P.G.;  oleum  hepatis 
morrhuse,  cod  oil,  E.;  huile  de  morue,  huile  de  foie  de  mo  rue, 
Fr.;  leberthran,  stockfischleberthran,  G. 

A  fixed  oil  obtained  from  fresh  livers  of  Gadus  Morr- 
hu8B  Linne  and  other  species  of  Gadus  (class  Pisces ;  order 
Teleostei ;  family  Gadidae). 

Habitat. — North  Atlantic  Ocean. 

Properties. — A  pale-yellow,  thin,  oily  liquid,  having  a 
peculiar,  slightly  fishy,  but  not  rancid  odor,  and  a  bland, 
slightly  fishy  taste..  Spec.  gr.  0.920  0.925.  Scarcely  soluble 
in  alcohol,  but  readily  soluble  in  ether,  chloroform  or  carbon 
disulphide  ;  also  in  2.5  parts  of  acetic  ether.  Brown  oils  are 
not  desirable  therapeutically. 

Constituents. — 1,  glycerin  oleate,  70  per  cent.;  2,  palmitin 
and  stearin,  25  per  cent.;  3,  oleic,  margaric,  palmitic,  stearic, 
butyric  and  acetic  acids,  in  small  quantities ;  4,  biliary 
matter,  as  cholic,  fellinic  and  bilifellinic  acids;  5,  gaduin 
(CssH^gOg);  6,  morrhuol,  a  crystalline  substance  containing 
iodine,  phosphorus  and  bromine  ;  7,  traces  of  iron,  lime,  and 
magnesia ;  8,  decomposition  products  or  cadaveric  alkaloids, 
in  brown  oils. 

Dose.—B.,  &  C,  5  ii.-iv.  (60.-120.) ;  Sh.  &  Sw.,  ^  ss.-i. 
(15.-30);  D.  &  C,  3  i.-iii.  (4.-12.). 

Action  Internal. — Cod  liver  oil  resembles  other  oils  in 
aiding  nutrition,  the  accumulation  of  fat,  and  the  mainten- 
ance of  bodily  heat,  but  surpasses  them  in  three  particulars  : 
1,  cod  liver  oil  is  more  easily  absorbed ;  this  has  been 
proven  comparatively  by  injecting  various  oils  into  separate 
ligated  portions  of  the  living  animal  bowel;  2,  cod  liver  oil 
is  more  readily  oxidized  after  absorption ;  this  is  shown  by 


COD   LIVER   OIL  627 

the  fact  that  it  reduces  and  therefore  changes  the  color  of 
potassium  permanganate  solutions  more  quickly  than  other 
oils ;  3,  cod  liver  oil  increases  the  number  of  red  blood 
corpuscles  in  anaemia ;  this  has  been  demonstrated  by  blood- 
counts,  but  not  by  comparison  with  the  effect  of  other  oils. 
The  ease  of  absorption  is  thought  by  some  to  be  due  to 
biliary  principles  which  aid  the  diffusion  of  substances 
through  a  mucous  membrane  (osmosis)  when  the  latter  is 
moistened  by  bile  ;  by  others  it  is  attributed  to  the  presence 
of  free  acids  in  the  oil  which  would  tend  to  saponify  and 
emulsify  the  drug.  The  medicinal  superiority  of  cod  liver 
oil  has  led  many  writers  to  classify  it  as  an  alterative,  and 
special  properties  have  been  referred  to  the  minute  traces  of 
iodine,  phosphorus,  and  bromine  in  the  oil.  These  agents 
exist  in  too  infinitesimal  an  amount  to  exert  much  therapeu- 
tic action. 

It  is  probable  that  no  one  constituent,  or  group  of  con- 
stituents, yet  separated  from  the  oil  truly  represent  its 
medicinal  effect.  Cod  liver  oil  is  inferior  to  other  oils  in  one 
respect,  however,  and  this  consists  in  its  liability  to  cause 
nausea,  indigestion,  diarrhoea  and  vomiting,  in  large  doses 
and  in  some  patients. 

Administration. —  Cod  liver  oil  may  be  given  pure,  or  if 
this  does  not  agree,  it  may  be  exhibited  in  various  ways :  1, 
with  an  equal  quantity  of  lime  water  and  a  little  syrup ;  2, 
with  ether  (ITtx.),  small  animals  ;  3  i-  to  large  animals ;  or 
with  whiskey ;  3,  shaken  with  white  of  an  egg,  or  mucilage 
of  tragacanth,  and  a  few  drops  of  oil  of  peppermint ;  4,  to 
dogs,  in  one  of  the  proprietary  emulsions,  or  with  malt 
extract.  The  oil  should  be  given  after  feeding  and  adminis- 
tration begun  with  the  smaller  doses  as  recommended  above. 

Uses. — Cod  liver  oil  is  indicated  generally  in  conditions 
of  malnutrition  occurring  primarily;  in  the  course  of  chronic 
diseases ;  or  following  acute  diseases.  It  is  especially  indi- 
cated in  diseases  of  the  respiratory  tract,  when  it  improves 
the  nutrition  of  the  mucous  membranes,  as  well  as  the 
general  nutrition.     Thus  cod  liver  oil  is  one  of  the  best 


628  AGENTS  OF  ANIMAL  ORIGIN 

remedies  in  tardy  convalescence  from  caniue  distemper; 
from  influenza,  bronchitis,  pneumonia  and  strangles  in  horses; 
also  in  "  heaves,"  emphysema,  or  broken  wind  in  horses. 
Carron  oil  is  cheaper  and  very  efficient  in  the  latter  disorder, 
given  on  the  food. 

Cod  liver  oil  is  valuable  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  bron- 
chitis, chronic  eczema,  and  chorea  of  dogs ;  and  in  rickets, 
anaemia,  weakness,  and  emaciation  in  all  young  animals.  It 
often  proves  curative  in  various  forms  of  muscular  and 
chronic  articular  rheumatism,  and  facilitates  the  absorption 
of  chronically  enlarged  glands.  The  use  of  cod  liver  oil  is 
contra-indicated  in  hot  weather,  and  in  animals  suffering 
from  indigestion  or  acute  diarrhoea.  It  is  often  beneficial, 
however,  in  chronic  diarrhoea. 

Linseed  oil,  oil  cake,  and  cottonseed  meal  may  often  be 
conveniently  and  properly  substituted  for  cod  liver  oil,  in 
the  case  of  the  larger  patients ;  while  morrhuol  (gr.iii.  =  1 
teaspoonful  cod  liver  oil?)  given  in  pills,  or  lipanin  (oleic 
acid,  6 ;  olive  oil,  100)  may  be  exhibited  in  drachm  doses  to 
dogs  when  cod  liver  oil  does  not  agree. 

IcTHYOLUM.    Icthyol.     (Non-official.) 

Syncmym. — Ammonium  icthyol  sulphonate. 

Derivation. — A  bituminous  quartz  occurring  in  the  Tyrol 
Mountains,  containing  the  fossil  remains  of  fish,  is  distilled 
with  strong  sulphuric  acid,  and  sulphurous  acids  are  removed 
from  the  distillate  by  sodium  chloride,  while  sulphonic  acid 
separates  out.  The  latter  is  usually  saturated  with  ammonia, 
forming  icthyol ;  but  similar  preparations  are  made  by  the 
combination  of  sulphonic  acid  with  sodium,  lithium  and 
zinc. 

Properties. — A  thick,  dark,  reddish-brown  liquid,  of  a 
tarry  consistency,  and  possessing  a  peculiar,  disagreeable 
odor,  and  hot,  bituminous  taste.  It  is  soluble  in  water, 
glycerin,  alcohol,  benzol,  fats  and  fixed  oils. 

Constituents. — Icthyol   contains  abotit  10  per  cent,  of 


ICTHYOL  629 

sulphur;  also  an  inseparable  volatile  oil,  to  which  its  dis- 
agreeable odor  is  due. 

Action  and  Uses. — Icthyol  is  one  of  the  most  widely  use- 
ful drugs  recently  introduced  into  medicine.  It  is  particu- 
larly valuable  in  the  treatment  of  acute  and  chronic  diseases 
of  the  skin  and  subadjacent  tissues,  accompanied  with 
inflammation,  pain,  swelling,  and  induration ;  also  in  epider- 
mal proliferation.  Icthyol  is  supposed  to  readily  permeate 
the  skin,  and  there  act  to  relieve  inflammation  and  pain,  and 
aid  resolution.  It  is  one  of  the  most  successful  remedies  in 
chronic  eczema,  psoriasis,  and  urticaria ;  in  erysipelas, 
muscular  and  articular  rheumatic  disorders ;  and  in  bruised 
and  strained  muscles,  tendons,  and  ligaments. 

The  drug  has  proved  of  great  worth  in  the  treatment  of 
frost  bites,  burns,  and  in  causing  absorption  of  lymphatic 
enlargements.  Icthyol  is  recommended  as  a  cure  for  sarcop- 
tic  mauge  and  scab.  It  is  doubtful  whether  the  drug  is  an 
antiseptic,  but  is  stimulant,  anodyne,  and  resolvent,  locally* 
Icthyol  is  most  satisfactorily  applied  to  the  unbroken  skin 
in  ointment,  with  lanolin  or  lard,  25  to  50  per  cent.  Solu- 
tions in  water,  glycerin,  oils  or  alcohol,  are  sometimes 
employed  of  various  strengths.  Icthyol  is  rarely  given 
internally  for  chronic  rheumatism. 

Thiol  is  a  substitute  for  icthyol,  lacking  the  unpleasant 
odor  of  the  latter  medicament.  Thiol  is  derived  from  brown- 
colored  paraffin  or  gas-oils,  by  a  complicated  process,  and 
consists  of  a  mixture  of  sulphuretted  hydrocarbons.  The 
drug  exists  in  two  forms  :  1,  thiolum  liquidum,  a  thin, 
brownish-black  liquid,  soluble  in  water  and  glycerin;  2, 
thiolum  siccum,  occurring  in  lustrous  scales.  Thiol  is 
cheaper  than  icthyol  and  is  said  to  be  as  efficacious  as  the 
latter.  This  remains  to  be  proved,  Liquid  thiol  is  employed 
in  10  per  cent,  aqueous  solution  or  in  ointment ;  and  thiolum 
siccum  in  powder,  dusted  on  inflamed  parts,  as  in  acute 
moist  eczema. 


DOSES   OF  DRUGS. 


In  the  following  table  three  doses  are  usually  given  for 
each  drug.  The  first  dose  is  for  horses  and  cattle,  in  both  the 
apothecaries'  and  metric  systems  of  weights  and  measures. 
The  second  dose  is  for  sheep  and  swine,  in  both  the  apothe- 
caries' and  metric  systems  of  weights  and  measures.  The 
third  dose  is  for  dogs  (and  also  cats)  i  u  both  the  apothecaries' 
and  metric  systems  of  weights  and  measures. 

Letters  are  used  to  signify  the  name  of  the  animal  for 
which  the  dose  is  intended.  Thus  :  H.,  Horses;  C,  Cattle  ; 
Sh.,  Sheep;  Sw.,  Swine;  D.,  Dogs  (which  also  includes  cats 
in  most  cases). 

The  following  abbreviations   are  also  employed  :   lb. 
pound ;  pt,  pint;  oz.,  ounce  ;  dr.,  drachm  ;  m.,  minim  ;  gr., 
grain  ;  gm.,  gram  ;  cc,  cubic  centimeter.      These  doses  are 
suitable  for  animals  of  average  weight. 

Dose  Table. 

AcETANlLro.— H.  &  C  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  i-1  (gm.  2.-4.). 
D.,gr.  3-7  (gm.  .2-5). 

ACETUM  Opu.— H.,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).  C,  oz.  2-3  (cc.  60.-90.)  Sh.  & 
Sw.,  dr.  2-6  (cc.  8.-24.).     D.,  m.  3-20  (cc.  .2-1.3). 

Acid,  Arsenous.— H.  &  C,  gr.  2-3  (gm.  .12-.2);  single  dose,  gr.  5-10 
(gm..3-.6).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  1-2  (gm.  .06.12).  D.,  gr.  ^-^  (gm. 
.002-.006). 

Aero,  Benzoic— H.,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).    D.,  gr.  5.-15  (gm.  .3-1.). 

Acid,  Boric— H.,  dr.  2-4.  (gm.  8.15.).     D.,  gr.  5-15  (gm.  .3-1.). 

Acid,  Carbolic— H.  &  C,  gr.  15-30  (gm.  1.-2.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  5-10 
(gm.  .3-. 6).     D.,  gr.  i-1  (gm.  .03-.06). 

Acid,  Citric— H.,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.  15.).    D.,  gr.  10-20  (gm.  .6-1.3). 

Acid,  Gallic— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-4.  (gm.  8.-15.).    Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  i-1  (gm. 
2.-4.).     D.,  gr.  5-20  (gm.  .3-1.3). 
630 


DOSE   TABLE  631 

Acid,  Hydriodic  (syrup  of). — D.,  dr.  1  (cc.  4.). 

Acid,  Hydrochloric  (dilute) .— H. ,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).    C. ,  dr.  2-4 (cc.  8.- 
15.).     Sh.  &Sw.,m.  15-20  (cc.  1-1.3).     Sw.  &  D.,  m.  5-20  (cc.  .3-1.3). 

Acid,  Hydrocyanic  (dilute).— H.  &  C,  m.  20-40   (cc.   1.3  2.6).    Sh., 
m.  10-15  (cc.  .6-1.).    Sw.,  m.  2-5  (cc.  .12-.3).     D.,  m.  1-3  (cc.  .06-.2). 

Acid,  Lactic— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-4  (cc.  8.-15.).    D.,  dr.  i-1  (cc.  2.-4.). 

Acid,  Nitric  (dilute).— H.,  dr.  1-2  (cc.4.-8.).  C,  dr.  2-4(8.-15.).  Sh.,  dr. 
i-1  (cc.  2.-4.)'    Sw.  &  D.,  m.  5-30  (cc.  .3-2.), 

Acid,  Nitrohydrochloric— H.,  m.   20-40   (cc.    1.3-2.6).    D.,  m.  3-5 

(cc.  .2-.3). 
Acid,  Nitrohydrochloric  (dilute).— H.,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).    C,  dr.  2-4 

(cc.  8.-15.).     Sh.,  dr.  i-1  (cc.  2.-4.).     Sw.  &  D.,  m.  5-30  (  3-2.). 

Acid,  Phosphoric  (dilute).— H;,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).     C,  dr.  2-4 (cc.  8.- 
15.).     Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  i-1  (cc.  2.-4.).     D.,  m.  5-30  (.3-2.). 

Acid,  Salicylic— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-8  (gm,  8  30).   Sh.,  dr.  1-4  (gm.  4.-15.). 
Sw.,  dr.  i-1  (gm.  2.-4.).     D.,  gr.  5-30  (gm.  .3-2.). 

Acid,  Sulphuric  (dilute).— H.,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).    C.,dr,  2-4  (cc.  8.- 
15.).     Sh.,  dr.  i-1  (cc.  2.-4.).    Sw.  &  D.,  m.  lu-30  (cc.  .6-2.). 

Acid,  Sulphuric,  Aromatic— H.  ,  dr.    i-1   (cc.  2.-4.).    C,  dr.  2.4. 
(cc.  8.-15.).    Sh.,  m.  15-30  (cc.  1.-2.).    Sw.  &  D.,  m.  5-15  (cc.  .3-1.). 

Acid,  Sulphurous.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).    Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1-2 
(cc.  4.-8.).     D.,  dr.  i-2  (cc.  2.-8.). 

Acid,  Tannic— H.  &.C.,  dr.  i-4  (gm.  2.-15.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  i-1  (gm.  2.- 
4.).     D.,gr.  1-15  (gm.. 06-1.). 

Acid,  Tartaric— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).   D.,  gr.  10-30  (gm.  .6-2.). 

Aconite.— H.,  gr.  3-20  (gm.  .2-1.3).     D.,  gr.  ^V^  (gm.  .006-.12). 

Aconite,  Extract  of  Leaves.— H.,  gr.  3-6  (gm.  .2-.4).     D.,  gr.  i-1  (gm. 

.03-.06). 
Aconite,  Extract  of.— H.,  gr.  1-3  (gm.  .06-.2).     D.,  gr.  J^-i  (gm.  .006- 

.015). 
Aconite,   Fluid    Extract    of.— H.,  m.   3-20  (cc.   .2-1.3).     D.,   m.   J^-S 

(cc.  .006-.12). 
Aconite,  Tincture  of.— H.,  m.  5-40  (cc.  .3-2.6).     C,  dr.  i-1  (cc.  2.-4.). 

Sh.  &  Sw.,  m.  5-10  (cc.  .3-.6).     D.,  m.  i-5  (cc.  .03-.3). 

AcoNiTiNE  Nitrate  (Squibb).— H.,  gr.  g^g  (gm.  .002).    D.,  gr.  ^oo-iho 
(gm.  .0003..0006). 

Aloes.— H.,  oz.  i-1  (gm.  15.-30.).     C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).   Sh.,  oz.  i-1 
(gm.  15.-30.).   Sw.,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).    D.,  gr.  20-60  (gm.  1.3-4.). 


632  DOSE  TABLE 

Aloin.-IT.  &  C,  dr.  2-8  (gm.  8.-12.).     D.,  gr.  2-20  (gm.  .12-1.3). 

Alum.— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  20.-60.  (gm.  1.3-4.). 
D.,  gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-.6).     Emetic,  dr.  1  (gm.  4). 

Ammonia,  Aromatic  Spirit  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).  Sh.  &  Sw., 
dr.  2-4  (cc.  8.-15.).     D.,  dr.  i-1  (cc.  2.-4.) 

Ammonia,  Spirit  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  i-1  (cc.  15.30.).  Sh.  &Sw.,  dr.  1-2 
(cc.  4.-8.).     D.,  m.  10-20  (cc.  .6-1.3). 

Ammonia,  Water  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  i-1  (cc.  15.-30.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1-2 
(cc.  4.-8.).     D.,  m.  10-20  (cc.  .6-1.3). 

Ammonia,  Stronger  Water  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  .2-6.  (cc.  8.-24.).  Sh.  & 
Sw.,  dr.  1  (cc.  4.).     D..  m.  5-10  (cc.  .3-.6). 

Ammoniacum.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  80.-60.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  2-4  (gm. 
8.-15.).     D.,  gr.  5-30  (gm.  .8-2.) 

Ammoniacum,  Emulsion  of.— D.,  oz.  i-1  (cc.  1J.-30.). 

Ammonium,  Solution  of  Acetate.— H.  &  C,  oz.  2-4  (cc.  60.-120.).    D., 

dr.  2-8  (cc.  8.-30.). 
Ammonium  Benzoate.— H.  ,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).     D.,  gr.  5  15(gm.  .3-1.). 

Ammonium  Carbonate.— H.,  dr.  2  (gm.  8.).  C,  dr.  3-6  (gm.  12.-24). 
Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  15.-40.  (gm.  1.-2.6).  D.,  gr.  3-10  (gm.  .2-.6). 
Emetic,  D.,  gr.  15  (gm.  1). 

Ammonium  Chloride.— H.,  dr.  2  (gm.  8.).  C,  dr.  3-6  (gm.  12.-24.) 
Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  15-40  (gm.  1.-2.6).     D.,  gr.  3-10  (gm.  .2-.6). 

Ammonium  Valerianate.— D.,  gr.  2-5  (gm.  .12-.3). 

Amyl  Nitrite.— H.,   dr.  ^-1  (cc.    2.-4.).    D.,  m.   2-5   (cc.   .12-.3),  by 

inhalation. 
Anise.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).    Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  2  3  (gm.  8.-12.). 

D.,  gr.  10-30  (gm.  .6-2.). 

Anise,  Oil  of.— H.,  m.  20-30  (cc.  1.3-2.).    D.,  m.  1-5  (cc.  .06-.3). 
Anise,  Spirit  of.— D.,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.). 

Antimony  and  Potassium  Tartrate. — H.,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).  Sw., 
emetic,  gr.  4-10  (gm.  .24..6).  D.,  gr.  ^Vi  (gm.  .006-.03).  Emetic, 
D.,gr.  1-2  (gm.  .06..12). 

Antimony,  Wine  of. — D.,  m.  5-60  (cc.  .3-4.). 

Antipyrin.— H.  &  C,  dr.  3-4  (gm.  12.-15.).     Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1  (gm.  4). 

D.,gr.  5-20  (gm.  .3-1.3). 
Apomorphine  Hydrochlorate.— D.,  emetic  subcutaneously,  gr.  ^-^ 

(gm.  .002-.006);  by  mouth,  gr.  J-^  (gm.  .008-.012).    D.,  expectorant, 

gr.^V2^(gm.  .0015.0024). 


DOSE   TABLE  '  633 

Areca  Nut.— H.,  oz.  i-1  (gm.  15.-30.).  Lamb,  dr.  1  (gm.  4.).  D.,  gr. 
15-60  (gm.  1.-4.).     Fowl,  gr.  10  (gm.  .6). 

Areca,  Fluid  Extract  of.— Dose  same  as  nut 

Arecoline  Hydrobromate.— H.  &  C,  gr.  |-1^  (gm.  .04-.1),  subcutane- 

ously. 
Arnica  Flowers.— H.  &C.,  oz.  i-1  (gm.  15.-30.).   D.,  gr.  10-20  (gm.  .6- 

1.3). 

Arnica  Flowers,  Tincture  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1  (cc.  30.).  D.,  m.  15-40 
(cc.  1-2.6). 

Arnica  Root.— H.  &  C,  oz.  ^-1  (gm.  15.-30.).  D.,  gr.  10-20  (gm.  .6-1.3). 

Arnica  Root,  Fluid  Extract  of.— H.  &  C,  (oz.  i-1  (cc.  15.-30.)  D.,  m. 
10-20  (cc.  .6-1.3). 

Arnica  Root,  Tincture  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  4  (cc.  15.).  D.,  m.  7-20  (cc.  .5- 

1.3). 
Arnica  Root.  Tincture  of  (B.  P.)— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).  D., 

dr.  i-1  (cc.  2.-4.). 

Arsenic. — See  Acid,  Arsenous. 

Arsenic,  Fowler's  Solution  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-8  (cc.  8.-30.).  Sh.  &  Sw., 
dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).     D.,  m.  2-10  (cc.  .U3-.6). 

Asafetida.— H.  &  C,  oz.  i-1  (gm.  15.-30.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.- 
8.).     D.,  gr.  3-10  (gm.  .2-.6). 

Asafetida,  Emulsion  of.— D.,  oz.  i-l  (cc.  15.-30.) 

Asafetida,  Pill.— D.,  (1.-4.). 

Asafetida,  Tincture  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  2-4  (cc.  60.-120.).    D.,  dr.  H 

(cc.  2.-4.). 
ASPIDIUM,  Fluid  Extract  of  (B.  P.).— H.  &  C,  dr.  3-6  (cc.  12.-24.).     Sh. 

&  Sw.,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).     D.,  m.  15-60  (cc.  1.-4.). 

ASPIDIUM,  Oleoresin  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  3-6  (cc.  12.-24.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr. 
1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).     D.,  m.  15-60  (cc.  1.-4.). 

Atropine SuLPH ATE.— H.,  gr.  1-li  (gm.  .06-.09).  C,  gr.  1-2  (gm.  .06-.12). 
Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  Jg-J^  (gm.  .004-.005).  D.,  gr.  ^'^-^^  (gm.  .0005-.002). 
Average  dose,  D.,  gr.  yi^  (gm.  .0006). 

Balsam  of  Peru.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1-2 
(cc.  4.-8.).     D.,  m.  10-30  (cc.  .6-2.) 

Barium  Chloride.— H.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).    Intertracheally,  gr.  7-15 

(gm.  .5-1.). 

Belladonna,  Alcoholic  Extract  of  Leaves. — H.  &  C,  gr.  10-20  (gm.  .6- 
1.3).     Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  2-4  (gm.  .12-.24).     D.,  gr.  ^-i  (gm.  .008-.03). 


634  DOSE  TABLE 

Belladonna,  Tincture  of  Leaves.— D.,  m.  15-30  (cc.  1.-2.). 

Belladonna  Root,  Fluid  Extract  of.— H.,  dr.  1.3  (cc.  4.-8.).    C,  dr. 

2-3  (cc.  8.-12.).     Sh.  &  Sw.,  m.  10-15  (cc.  .6-1.).     D.,  m.  1-3  (cc. 

.06-.2). 
Benzoin,  Tincture  of.— H.,  oz.  1  (cc.  30.).     D.,  dr.  ^-1  (cc.  2.-4.) 
Bismuth  Salicylate.— D.,  gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-.6). 

Bismuth  Subcarbonate.— H.,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).    D.,  gr.  10-30  (gm. 

.62). 
Bismuth  Subnitrate. — Dose  same  as  subcarbonate. 

Brandy— H.  &  C,  oz.  2-4  (cc.  60.-120.).  Sh.  &Sw.,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.). 
D.,dr.  1-4  (cc.  4.-15.). 

Buchu,  Fluid  Extract  of. -H.,  oz.1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).   D., m.5-30  (cc.  .3-2.). 

Buckthorn  (RhamnusCatharticus),  Syrup  of. — D.,oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.). 
Cats,  oz.  H  (cc.  15.-30.). 

Caffeine.- H.,  gr.  7-15  (gm.  .5-1.).    D.,  gr.  i-3  (gm.  .03-.2). 

Caffeine,  Citrate  of .— H. ,  gr.  15-30  (gm.  1.-2. ) .   D . ,  gr.  1-6  (gm.  .06-.36) . 

Calamus.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  2.3  (gm.  8.- 
12.).     D.,  gr.  15-60  (gm.  1.-4.). 

Calamus,  Fluid  Extract  of.— Dose  same  as  Calamus. 

Calcium,  Precipitated  Carbonate  of.— H.,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).  C,  oz. 
2-4  (gm.  60.-120).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).  D.,  gr.  10-60 
(gm.  .6-4.). 

Calcium,  Lactophosphate,  Syrup  of.  —  Foals  and  Calves,  oz.  |-1 
(cc.  15.-30.).     D.,  dr.  1-4  (cc.  4.-15.) 

Calcium,  Precipitated  Phosphate  of.— H.,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).     C,  oz. 

i-1  (gm.  15.-30.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).     D.,  gr.  5-20  (gm. 

.3-1.3). 
Calomel. — See  Mercury, 

Calumba.— H.  &  C,  oz.  i-1  (gm.  15.-30.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.). 
D.,  gr.  5-30  (gm.  .3-2.). 

Calumba,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Doqp  same  as  Calumba. 

Calumba,  Tincture  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  2-4  (cc.  60.-120.).  D.,  dr.  1-4 
(cc.  4.-15.). 

Camphor.-H.,  dr.  1-3  (gm.  4.-12.).  C,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).  Sh.  &Sw., 
gr.  15-60  (gm.  1.-4.).     D.,  gr.  3-20  (gm.  .2-1.3). 

Camphor,  Monobromated.  — D.,  gr.  2-10  (gm.  .12-.6). 

Camphor,  Spirit  of.— H.,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).    D.,  dr.  i-1  (cc.  2.-4.). 


©OSE  TABLE  €36 

Cannabis  Indica,  Extract  of.— H.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).    D.,  gr.  i-1  (gm. 
.015-.06). 

Cannabis  Indica,  Fluid  Extract  of. — H.,  dr.  4-6  (cc.  15.-34.).    D.,  m. 
3-10  (cc.  .2-.6). 

Cannabis  Indica,  Tincture  of.— D.,  m.  15-30  (cc.  1.-2.). 

Cantharides.— H.  &  C,  gr.  5-20  (gm.  .3-1. 3\     Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  4-8  (gm. 
.24-.5).     D.,  gr.  1-2  (gm.  .06-.12). 

Cantharides,  Tincture  of.— H.,  dr.  2-4  (cc.  8.-15.).    D.,  m.  2-15  (cc. 
.12-1.). 

Capsicum.— H.,  gr.  20-60  (gm.  1.3-4.).    C,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).    D.,  gr. 
1-8  (gm.  .06-.48). 

Capsicum,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Dose  same  as  Capsicum. 

Capsicum,  Oleoresin  of.— H.,  m.  10-30  (cc.  .6-3.).    C,  dr.  i-1  (cc.  3.-4.). 
D.,m.  i-1  (cc.  .015-.06). 

Capsicum,  Tincture  of .— H.,  dr.  2-4  (cc.  8.-15.).  C,  oz.  i-1  (cc.  15.-30.). 
D.,  m.  5-60  (cc.  .3-4.). 

Carbon  Bisulphide.— H.,  dr.  2-4  (cc.  8.-15.). 

Cardamon.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-3  (gm.  30.-60.).    Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  3-3  (gm.  8.- 
12.).     D.,  gr.  10-30  (gm.  .6-2.). 

Cardamon,  Fluid  Extract  of.— Dose  same.     (Non-official.) 

Cardamon,  Compound  Tincture  of.— D.,  dr.  1-2  (co.  4.-8.). 

Cardamon,  Tincture  of.— D.,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.). 

Cascara  Sagrada.— D.,  gr.  5-30  (gm.  .3-2.). 

Cascara  Sagrada,  Fluid  Extract  of.— D.,  m.  5-30  (cc.  .3-2.). 

Cascara  Sagrada  (Solid)  Extract  of.— D.,  gr.  2-8  (gm.  .12-.5). 

Cascarilla.— H.  &  C,  oz.  i-l  (gm.  15.-30.).    Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.- 
8.).     D.,  gr.  10-30  (gm.  .6-2.). 

Castor  Oil.— H.  &  C,  pt.  1  (cc.  500.).   Sh.  &  Sw.,  oz.  3-4  (cc.  60.-120). 
D.,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).     Fowl,  dr.  1  (cc.  4.). 

Catechu.— H.,  oz.  i-1  (gm.  15.-30.).     C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).    Sh.  & 
Sw.,  dr.  1-3  (gm.  4.-8.).     D.,  gr.  5-30  (gm.  .3-3.). 

Catechu,  Fluid  Extract  of. — (Non-official.) — Dose  same  as  Catechu. 

Catechu,  Compound  Tincture  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-3  (cc.  30.-60.).    Foals, 
Calves  and  Sheep,  oz.  i-1  (cc.  15.-30.).     D.,  dr.  i-3  (cc.  3.-8.). 

Cerium  Oxalate.— D.,  gr.  3-5  (gm.  .3.3). 

Chalk,  Compound  Powder  of .— D.,  gr.  10-60  (gm.  .6-4.). 


636  DOSE  TABLE 

Chalk  Mixture.— D.,  oz.  1-3  (cc.  30.-60.). 

Chalk,  Prepared.— H.,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).    C,  oz.  2-4  (gm.  60.-120.). 
'       Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).    D.,  gr.  10-60  (gm.  .6-4.). 

Charcoal  (Wood,  and  animal,  purified). — H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.- 
60.).     Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).     D.,  gr.  20-60  (gm.  1.3-4.). 

Chloral.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.). 
D..gr.  5-20  (gm.. 3-1.3). 

Chloroform.— H.  &  C,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  m.  20-30  (co. 
1.3-2.).     D.,  m.  2-20  (cc.  .12-1.3). 

Chloroform,  Spirit  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (30.-60.).  Sh.  &Sw.,  dr.  2-4 
(cc.  8.-15.).     D.,  dr.  i-1  (cc.  2.-4.) 

Cinchona  Bark.— H.,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).  C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.). 
Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1-4  (gm.  4.-15.).     D.,  gr.  10-60  (gm.  .6-4.). 

Cinchona,  Compound  Tincture  of. — H.,  oz.  2-4  (cc.  60.-120.).    D.,  dr. 

.       i-4(cc.  2.-15.). 

Cinchona,  Extract  of.— H.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).    D.,  gr.  5-30  (gm.  .3-2.). 

Cinchona,  Fluid  Extract  of.— H.,  dr.  2-4  (cc.  8.-15.).  C,  oz.  1-2  (cc. 
30.-60.).     Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1-4  (cc.  4.-15.).     D.,  gr.  10-60  (cc.  .6-4.). 

CmCHONiNE  Sulphate,  Tonic  Dose.— H.,  gr.  20-60  (gm.  1.3-4.).  C, 
dr.  f-li  (gm.  3.-6.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  6-15  (gm.  .36-1.).  D.,  gr.  1^-2^ 
(.1-.15). 

CiNCHONiNE  Sulphate,  Antipyretic  Dose.— H.,  dr.  2^-5  (gm.  10.-20.). 
Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  40-50  (gm.  2.6-3.3).     D.,  gr.  7-15  (gm.  .5-1.). 

CiNCHONiDiNE  SuLPHATE. — ^Dose  same  as  Cinchonine  Sulphate. 

Cocaine  Hydrochlorate.— H.,  gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-.6).     D.,  gr  ^-f  (gm. 

.008-.045). 
Cod  Liver  Oil.— H.,  oz.  2-4(cc.  60.-120.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  oz.  ^1  (cc.  15.-30.). 
-     D.,  dr.  1-3  (cc.  4.-12.). 

■Codeine.— D.,  gr.  i-3  (gm.  .015-.  12). 

COLCHICLN'E.- H.  &  C,  gr.  H  (gm.  .01-.03).     D.,  gr.  ^^^p^  (gm.  .0006- 

.00i2). 
COLCHICUM  Root.— H.  &  C,  dr.  i-2  (gm.  2.-8.).     Sh.,  gr.  10-20  (gm.  .6- 

1.3).     Sw.  &  D.,  gr.  2.-8  (gm.  .12-.5). 

COLCHICUM  Root,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Dose  same  as  Colchicum. 

CoLcmcuM  Root,  Tincture  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  3-8  (cc.  12.-30.).  D.,  m. 
10-30  (cc.  .6-2.) 

CoLcmcuM  Root,  Wine  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  3-8  (cc.  12.-30.).  D.,  m.  10-30 
(cc.  .6-2.). 


DOSE  TABLE  ,637 

.COLOCYNTH.— D.,  gr.  3-8  (gm.  .2-.5). 

COLOCYNTHIN.— H.,  dr.  ^-1  (gm.  2.-4.).     D.,  gr.  ^-1  (gm.  .015-.06). 

CONIINE  Hydrobromate.— H  &  C,  gr.  f-U  (gm.  .045-.1).  Sh.  &  Sw., 
gr.  1-1  (gm.  ,012-.024).  .  D.,  gr.  J^-gV  (gm.  .001-.002). 

CONIUM.— H.  &C.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.-4.-8.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  10-20  (gm.  .6-1.3). 
D.,gr.  2-5  (gm.  .12-.3). 

CoNiUM,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Dose  same  as  Conium. 

CONIUM,  Extract  of.— H.  &  C,  gr.  32-24  (gm.  .72-1.5).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr. 
2-4  (gm.  .12-,24).     D.,  gr.  i-1  (gm.  .015-.06). 

CONVALLARIA,  Fluid  ExtTEct  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).  D.,  m. 
5-10  (cc.  .3-.6). 

Copper  Sulphate.— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  20-40 
(gm.  1.3-2.6).  D.,  gr.  1-2  (gm.  .08-.12).  Emetic— D.,  gr.  6-20  (gm. 
.36-1.3). 

Corrosive  Sublimate.— (See  Mercury.) 

Cotton  Root  Bark.— (See  Gossypium.) 

Creasote.— H.,  m.  15-30  (cc.  1.-2.).  C,  dr.  ^-1  (cc.  2.-4.).  Sh.  &  Sw., 
m.  5.-15  (cc.  .3-1.).    D.,  m.  i-2  (cc.  .03-.12). 

Creolin.— H.  &  C,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).  D.,  m.  1-5  (cc.  .06-.3).  Single 
dose  as  anthelmintic.     H.,  oz.  ^1  (cc.  15.-30.). 

Croton  Oil.— H.,  m.  15-30  (cc.  1.-2.).  C,  dr.  i-1  (cc.  2.-4.).  Sh  &  Sw., 
m.  5-10  (cc.  .3-.6).     D.,  m.  i-3  (cc.  .03-.2). 

DlQiTALEiN.— H.,  gr.  H  (gni-  .008-.015).     D.,  gr.  j^o  (gm.  .0006). 

Digitalin.— H.,  gr.  i-i  (gm.  .015-.03).     D.,  gr.  gL-Jg  (gm.  .001-.002). 

Digitalis.— H.,  gr.  10-60  (gm.  .6-4.).  C.,dr.  i-li  (gm.  2.-6.).  Sh.  & 
Sw.,  gr.  5-15  (gm.  .3-1.).     D.,  gr.  i-3  (gm.  .03-.2). 

Digitalis,  Fluid  Extract  of.  —Dose  same  as  Digitalis. 

Digitalis,  Extract  of.— H.,  gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-.6).    D.,  gr.  ^i  (gm.  .008- 

.03). 
Digitalis,  Infusion  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  2-6  (cc.  60.-180.).    Sh.  &  Sw.,  oz. 

i-1  (cc.  15.-30.).     D.,  dr.  1-4  (cc.  4.-15.). 

Digitalis,  Tincture  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-4  (cc.  8.-15.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  h 
li  (cc.  2.-6.).     D.,  m.  5-30  (cc.  .3-2.). 

Dover's  Powder.— H.,  oz.  i-1  (gm.  15.-30.).    D.,  gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-.6). 

Dover's  Powder,  Liquid.— H.,  oz.  |-1  (cc.  15.-30.).  D.,  m.  5-10  (cc. 
.3-.6).  '  '  ' 

elaterin.— D.,  gr.  ^-/j  (giia.  .003-.005).      ...:::.:::::-;;:  J.  .::_:_ J 


638  DOSE  TABLE 

» 
Ergot.  -  H.  &  C,  oz.  H  (gm.  15.-30.).    Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1-3  (gm.  4.-8.). 
D.,  dr.  H  (gm.  2."-4.). 

Ebqot,  Fluid  Extract  of.— Dose  same  as  Ergot. 

Ergot,  Extract  of  (Ergotin) .— H.  &  C,  gr.  20-60  (gm.  1.3-4.).  D.,  gr. 
2-10  (gm.  .12-.6). 

Ergot,  Tincture  of.-H.  &  C,  oz.  i-3  (cc.  15.-60.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1-4 
(cc.  4.-15.).     D.,  dr.  i-2  (cc.  2.-8.). 

Eserine.— (See  Physostigmine.) 

Ether.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  2-4  (cc.  8.-15.). 
D.,  m.  10-60  (cc.  .6-4.). 

Ether,  Spirit  of,  and  Compound  Spirit  of.— H.  &C.,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.). 
Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  2-4  (cc.  8.-15.).     D.,  m.  10-60  (cc.  .6-4.). 

Ether,  Nitrous,  Spirit  of  (Sweet  Spirit  of  Nitre). — H.  &  C,  oz.  1-4 
(cc.  30.-120.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  2-4  (cc.  8.-15.).  D.,  m.  10-60  (cc. 
.6-4.) 

Eucalyptus,  Fluid  Extract  of.-H.,  oz.  2-3  (cc.  60.-l>0.).  D.,  dr.  i-2 
(cc.  2.-8.). 

Eucalyptus,  Oil  of.— H.,  dr.  2-4  (co.  8.-15.).    D.,  m.  5-20  (cc.  .3-1.3). 

EUCALYPTOL.— Dose  same  as  Oil  of  Eucalyptus. 

Fennel.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).  Sh.  &Sw.,  dr.  2-3  (gm.  8.-12.). 
D.,  gr.  10-20  (gm.  .6-1.3). 

Fel  Bovis.— (See  Oxgall.) 

Fenugreek.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  2-3  (gm.  8.- 
12.).    D.,gr.  10-30  (gm.  .6-2.). 

Frangula,  Fluid  Extract  of.— D.,  dr.  |-1  (cc.  2.-4.). 

Gamboge. -H.,  oz.  i-1  (gm.  15.-30.).  C,  oz.  1-1^  (gm.  30.-45.).  Sh.  & 
Sw.,  gr.  20-60  (gm.  1.3-4.).     D.,  gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-.6). 

Gaultheria,  Oil  of.-H.  &  C,  dr.  3  oz.l  (cc.  8.-30.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  i- 
3  (cc.  3.-8.).     D.,  m.  5-15  (cc.  .3-1.). 

Gei^emine.— H.,  gr.  i-^  (gm.  .015-.03).    D.,  gr.  ^-^  (gm.  .001-.003). 

Gelsemium.— H.,  dr.  1-3  (gm.  4.-8.).    D.,  gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-.6). 

Gelsemium,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Dose  same  as  Gelsemium. 

Gelsemtom,  Tincture  of.-H.,  oz.    ^3    (cc.    15.-60.).    D.,  m.   15-60 

(cc.  1.-4.). 
Gentian.— H.,  oz.  i-1  (gm.  15.-30.).    C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).    Sh.  & 

Sw.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).     D.,  gr.  5-30  (gm.  .3-2.). 

Gentian,  Fluid  Extract  of.— Dose  same  as  Gentian. 


DOSE  TABLE 


639 


Gentian,  Compound  Tincture  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-4  (cc.  30.-130.).    D., 

dr.  1-4  (cc.  4.-15.). 
Ginger.— H.,  dr.  2-oz.  1  (gm.  8.-30.).   C,  oz.  1-4  (gm.  30.-120.).    Sh.  & 

Sw.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4-8).     D.,  gr.  5-15  (gm.  .3-1.). 
Ginger,  Fluid  Extract  of.— Dose  same  as  Ginger. 
Glycerin.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1  (cc.  30.).    D.,  dr.  i-1  (cc.  2.-4.). 
Glycyrrhiza.— (See  Liquorice.) 

GOSSYPIUM  Root,  Fluid  Extract  of  Bark  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  i-l  (cc.  15.- 
30.).    Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).     D.,  dr.  H  (cc.  2.-4.). 

Granatum  (Pomegranate).— D.,  dr.  ^-H  (gm.  2.-6.). 

Granati  Radicis  Cortex,  Fluid  Extract  of.— "D.,  dr.  i-2  (cc.  2.-8.). 

H^aiATOXYLON,  Extract  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  ^-4  fgm.  2.-15.).    Sh.  &  Sw., 
dr.  H  (gm.  2.-4.).    D.,  gr.  5-15  (gm.  .3-1.). 

H^MATOXYLON,  Fluid  Extract  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  i-li  (cc.  15.-45.)  Sh.  & 
Sw.,  dr.  li-3  (cc.  6.-12.).    D.,  m.  15-45  (cc.  1.-3.). 

Hamamelis,  Fluid  Extract  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).    D.,  dr.  i-2 

(cc.  2.-8.). 
Hydrastin.— H.,  gr.  15-30  (gm.  1.-2.).    D.,  gr.  3-5  (gm.  .2-.3). 

Hydrastin^e  Hydrochlorate.— H.,  gr.  1-2  (gm.  .06-.  12).    D.,  gr.  jVi 

gm.  .005-.01). 
Hydrastis,  Fluid  Extract  of.-H.  &  C,  dr.  2-oz.  1  (cc.  8.-30.).    Sh.  & 

Sw.,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).     D.,  m.  5-60  (cc.  .3-4.). 

Hydrastis,  Glycerite  of. — Dose  same  as  Fluid  Extract. 

Hydrastis,  Tincture  of.-H.,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).    D.,  dr.  i-2  (cc.  2.-8.). 

Hyoscine  Hydrobromate.— H.,  gr.  ^-i  (gm.  .01-.015).     D.,  gr.  xio-ioo 

(gm.  .0004-.0006). 
Hyoscy AMINE  Hydrobromate  and  Sulphate.— H.,  gr.  1-2  (gm.  .06-.  12). 

D.,  gr.  eV^o  (gm.  .001-.002). 
Hyoscyamus.— H.  &  C,  oz.  ^-1  (gm.  15.-30.).     D.,  gr.  5-15  (gm.  .8-1.). 
Hyoscyamus,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Dose  same  as  Hyoscyamus. 

Hyoscyamus,  Extract  of.-H.  &  C,  gr.  20-60  (gm.  1.3-4.).    D.,  gr.  i-2 

(gm.  .03-.  12). 
Hyoscyamus,  Tincture  of.— D.,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.). 
Hyoscyamus,  Succus  of.— D.,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.). 
Hypophosphites,  Compound  Syrup  of. — D.,  dr.  1  (cc.  4.). 

Iodine.— H.  &  C,  dr.  i-1  (gm.  2.-4.).    Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  10-20  (gm.  .6-1.3). 
D.,  gr.  2-5  (gm.  .12-.3). 


64&  DOSE  -TABLE 

Iodine,  Compound  S<^ution  of.— H.,  dr.  2A  (cc.  8.-15.).    D.,  m.  2-10  (cci 

.12-.6). 
lOMNE,  Tincture  of.— H.,  dr.  2-4  (cc.  8.-15.).     D.,  m.  2-10  (cc.  .12-.6). 

Ipecac. -H.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).  C,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  .8-15.).  Sh.,  dr.  H 
(gm.  2.-4.).  D.,  gr.  i-2  (gin.  .03-.12).  Emetic— D.  &  Sw.,  gr.  15-30 
(gm.  1.-2.).     Cats,  gr.  5-12  (gm.  .13-.72). 

Ipecac,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Dose  same  as  Ipecac. 

Ipecac,  Syrup  of.— D.,  Expectorant,  m.  15-60  (cc.  1.-4.). 

Ipecac,  Wine  of.— D.,  Expectorant,  m.  15-60  (cc.  1.-4.). 

Iron  and  Ammonium  Citrate.— D.,  gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-. 6). 

Iron,  Carbonate,  Sacchar'ated.— H.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).  C,  dr.  2-4  (gm. 

8.-15.).     Sh.  &  Sw.,  (gr.  20-30  (gm.  1.3-2.).    D.,  gr.  1-5  (gm.  .06-.3). 
Iron,  Chloride,  Solution  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-4  (cc.  8.-15.).     Sh.  &  Sw., 

m.  10-20  (cc.  .6-1.3).     D.,  m.  2-10  (.12-.6). 

Iron,  Chloride,  Tincture  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).  Sh.  &  Sw., 
m.  20-30  (cc.  1.3-2.).     D.,  m.  5-60  (cc.  .3-4.). 

Iron,  Iodide,  Syrup  of.— D.,  m.  5-10  (cc.  .3-6.). 

Iron,  (and)  Quinine  Citrate.— D.,  gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-.6). 

Iron,  Reduced.— H.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).  C,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8-15).  Sh.  & 
Sw.,  gr.  20-30  (gm.  1.3-2.).     D.,  gr.  1-5  (gm.  .06-.3). 

Iron,  (and)  Strychnine  Citrate.— D.,  gr.  1-2  (gm.  .06-.12). 

Iron,  Sulphate  and  Dried  Sulphate.— H.  &  C,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).  Sh. 
&  Sw.,  gr.  20-30  (gm.  1.3-2.).     D.,  gr.  1-5  (gm.  .06-.3). 

Jaborandi.— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).  Sh.  &Sw.,  dr.  H  (gm.  2.-4.). 
D.,  gr.  5-60  (gm.  .3-4.). 

Jaborandi,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Dose  same  as  Jaborandi. 

Jalap.— Sw.,  dr.  3-4  (gm.  8.-15.).    D.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).    Cats,  dr.  i-1 

(gm.  2.-4.). 
Jalap,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Dose  same  as  Jalap. 

Jalap,  Resm  of.— Sw.,  dr.  H  (gm.  2.-4.).     D.,  gr.  15-30  (gm.  1.-2.). 

.  Cats,  gr.  7-15  (gm.  .5-1.). 
Juniper,  Compound  Spirit  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  2-4  (cc.  60.-120.).    D.,  dr. 

1-4  (cc.  4.-15.). 
Juniper,  Oil  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).    D.,  m.  2-10  (cc.  .12-.6). 
Kamala.— H.,  oz.  1  (gm.  30.).     D.,  dr.  i-2  (gm.  2.-8.). 

KiNp:— H.,  oz.  i-1  (gm.  15.-3Q.).  C.,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).  Sh.  &  Sw.^ 
dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).     D.,  gr.  5-30  (gm.  .3-2.). 


DOSE  TABLE  641 

Kino,  Fluid  Extract  of . — Dose  same  as  Kino. 

Kino,  Tincture  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).     Foals,  Calves  and 
Sheep,  oz.  H  (cc.  15.-30.).     D.,  dr.  i-2  (cc.  2.-8.).  " 

KoussiN.— D.,  gr.  5-40  (gm.  .3-2.6). 

Kousso. — Small  dogs,  dr.  ^-1  (gm.  2.-4).  Large  dogs,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.) 

Kousso,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Dose  same  as  Kousso. 

Krameria.— H.,  oz.  i-1  (gm.  15.-30.).  C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).  Sh.  & 
Sw.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).     D.,  gr.  5-30  (gm.  .3-2.). 

Krameria,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Dose  same  as  Krameria. 

Krameria,  Extract  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-3  (gm.  8.-12.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr. 
20-40  (gm.  1.3-2.6).    D.,  gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-.6). 

Krameria,  Tincture  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).  Foals,  Calvea: 
and  Sheep,  oz.  i-1  (cc.  15.-30.).     D..  dr.  i-2  (cc.  2.-8.). 

Lead  Acetate.— H.  &  C,  dr.  1  (gm.  4.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  15-20  (gm.  1.- 
1.3).     D.,  gr.  1-2  (gm.  .06-..12). 

Lime,  Solution  of  (Lime  Water).— H.  &  C,  oz.  4-6  (cc.  120.-180.). 
Calves  and  Foals,  oz.  2  (cc.  60.).     D.,  dr.  1-8  (cc.  4.-30.). 

Linseed  Oil.— H.,  pt.  H  (cc.  250.-500).  C,  pt.  1-2  (cc.  500.-1000.).  Sh. 
&  Sw.,  oz.  6-12  (cc.  180.-360.).     Dogs  and  Cats,  oz.  ^2  (cc.  15.-60.).^ 

Liquorice.— Ad  lib. 

Liquorice,  Fluid  Extract  of.— Ad  lib. 

Liquorice,  Extract  of. — Ad  lib. 

Liquorice,  Compound  Powder  of.— D.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.). 

Lithium  Carbonate.— D.,  gr.  3-10  (gm.  .2-.6).  ; 

Lithium  Citrate.— D.,  gr.  5-20  (gm.  .3-1.3). 

Magnesia. — Foals  and  Calves,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).  D.,  gr.  5-60  (gm.  .3-4.). 

Magnesium  Carbonate.— Dose  same  as  Magnesia. 

Magnesium  Sulphate.— H.  (laxative),  oz.  2-4  (gm.  60.-120.).  C.  (pur- 
gative), lb.  1-2  (gm.  500.-1000.);  (laxative),  oz.  3-4  (gm.  90.-120.). 
Calves,  dr.  2-3  (gm.  8.-12.).  Sh.,  oz.  4-6  (gm.  120.-180.).  D.,  dr.  1-4 
(gm.  4.-15.). 

Male  Fern,  Oleoresin  and  Fluid  Extract  of.—H.  &  C,  dr.  3-6  (cc.  12.- 
24.).     Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).     D.,  m.  15-60  (cc.  1.-4.). 

Menthol.— D.,  gr.  2  (gm.  .12).  ' 

Mercury  with  Chalk.— Foals  and  Calves,  gr.  10-15  (gm.  .6-1.).  D.,  gr. 

1-10  (gm.  .06-.6).  —  :--.:..'::..,::    .,:i 


642  DOSE  TABLE 

Mercury,  Corrosive  Chloride  of .—H.  &  C,  gr.  5-8  (gm.  .3-.5).  Sh.  & 
Sw.,  gr.  2  (gm.  .12).     D.,  gr.  ^h'k  (gm.  .002-.008). 

Mercury,  Iodide  of  (red). — Dose  same  as  Corrosive  Chloride. 

Mercury,  Mass  of  (Blue  Pill).— D.,  gr.  1-10  (gm.  .06-.6). 

Mercury,  Mild  Chloride  of.- H.,  dr.  H  (gm.  2.-4.).  C,  dr.  5-6  (gm. 
20.-24.).  D.,gr.  ^-^  (gm.  .006-.03),  in  divided  doses;  gr.  3-5  (gm. 
.2-.3),  in  single  doses. 

Methyl  Salicylate.— H.,  dr.  2-8  (cc.  8.-30).    D.,  m.  5-15  (cc.  .3-1.). 

Morphine  and  its  Salts.— H.  &  C,  gr.  3-10  (gm.  .2-.6).  Sh.,  gr.  ^2 
(gm.  .03-.12).  Sw.,  gr.  ^-i  (gm.  .006-.03).  D.,  gr.  H  (gm.  .008- 
.03).  Subcutaneously— H.,  gr.  3-4  (gm.  .2-.24).  D.,  gr.  H  (gm. 
.008-.02). 

Morrhuol.— D.,  gr.  1-5  (gm.  .06-.3). 

Mustard.— H.  &  C,  oz.  H  (gm.  15.-30.).  Sh.  &Sw.,  dr.  ^2  (gm.  2.-8.). 
D.,  gr.  10-15  (gm.  .6-1.).    Emetic— D.,  oz.  i  (gm.  15.). 

Naphthalin.— H.,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).    D.,  gr.  1-20  (gm.  .06-1.3). 

Naphtol.— H.,  dr.  2-3  (gm.  8.-12.).    D,,  gr.  1-10  (gm.  .06-.6). 

Nicotine.— H.  &  C,  gr.  ^-^g  (gm.  .001-.003). 

Nitroglycerin  (1  per  cent,  solution).— H.  &  C,  dr.  i-l  (cc.  2.-4.).  D., 
m.  1-2  (cc.  .06-.12). 

Nux  Vomica.— H.  &  C,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).  Sh.,  gr.  20-40  (gm.  1.3-2.6). 
Sw.,  gr.  10-20  (gm.  .6-1.3).     D.,  gr.  1-2  (gm.  .06-.12). 

Nux  Vomica,  Extract  of.— H.  &  C,  gr.  2-15  (gm.  .12-1.)  Sh.,  gr.  2^-5 
(gm.  .15-.3).    Sw.,  gr.  1-2  (gm.  .06-.12).     D.,  gr.  H  (gm.  .008-.015). 

Nux  Vomica,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Dose  same  as  Nux  Vomica. 

Nux  Vomica,  Tincture  of.— D.,  m.  5-10  (cc-  .3-.6). 

Olive  Oil.— H.  &  C,  pt  1-2  (cc.  500.-1000.).    D.,  oz.  2-4  (cc.  60.-120.). 

Opium,  Camphorated  Tincture  of  (Paregoric).— D.,  dr.  1-4  (cc.  4.-15.). 

Opium,  Extract  of.— H.,  dr.  ^1  (gm.  2.-4.).  C,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).  Sh., 
gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-.6).  Sw.,  gr.  2-10  (gm.  .12-.6).  D.,  gr.  H  (gm. 
.01-.03). 

Opium,  Powder.— H.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).  C,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).  Sh., 
gr.  10-20  (gm.  .6-1.3).  Sw.,  gr.  5-20  (gm.  .3-1.3).  D.,  gr.  i-3 
(gm.  .03-.2). 

Opium,  Tincture  of .—II.,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).  C,  oz.  2-3  (cc.  60.-90.). 
Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  2-6  (cc.  8.-24.).     D.,  m.  3  30  (cc.  .2-2.). 

Opium,  Wine  of. — Dose  same  as  Tincture. 


DOSE  TABLE  643 

Oxgall.— D.,  gr.  5^15  (gm.  .3-1.). 

Pancreatin.— D.,  gr.  5-15  (gm.  .3-1.). 

Papain.— Foals,  Calves  and  Dogs,  gr.  2-10  (gm.  .12-.6). 

Pelletierine  Tannate.— D.,  gr.  2-5  (gm.  .12-.3). 

Peppermint,  Oil  of.— H.  &  C,  m.  15-30  (cc.  1.-2.).    D.,  m.  1-5  (cc. 

.06-.3). 
Peppermint,  Spirit  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-4  (cc.  8.-15.).     D.,  m.  15-30 

(cc.  1.-2.). 
Pepsin.— Dogs,  Foals  and  Calves,  gr.  10-60  (gm.  .6-4.). 
Phenacetin.— H.,  dr.  2-3  (gm.  8.-12.).     D.,  gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-.6). 
Phosphorated  Oil.— H.,  dr.  2-3  (cc.  8.-12.).    D.,  m.  1-5  (cc.  .06-.3). 

Phosphorus.— H.,  gr.  1-2  (gm.  .06-.12).  C,  gr.  2-3  (gm.  .12-.2).  Sh., 
Sw.  &  D.,  gr.  jio-z'o  (gm.  .0006-.003). 

Phosphorus,  Spirit  of. — D.,  m.  7-20  (cc.  .5-1.3). 

Physostigma.— H.,  gr.  15-30  (gm.  1.-2.).     D.,  gr.  ^-1  (gm.  .015-.06). 

Physostigma,  Fluid  Extract  of.— Dose  same  as  Physostigma. 

Physostigmine  Sulphate  and  Salicylate. — H.,  gr.  1-li  (gm.  .06-.09). 
C,  gr.  1-2  (gm.  .06-.12).  D.,  gr.  1^0-30  (gm.  .0006-.002),  subcu- 
taneously  and  intratracheally. 

Pilocarpine  and  its  Salts. — H.  (purgative),  gr.  2-5  (gm.  .12-.3).    C. 

(purgative),  gr.  5-10  (gem.  .3-.6).      H.  (diarphoretic;  dangerous), 

gr.  6-12  (gm.  .36-.72),     Sh.,  gr.  1  (gm.  .06).     D.,  gr.  ^5-^  (gm.  .006- 

.02). 
Pilocarpus. -H.  &  C,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).    Sh.  &  Sw.,dr.  H  (gm. 

2.-4.).     D  ,  gr.  5-60  (gm.  .3-4.). 
Pilocarpus,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Dose  same  as  Pilocarpus. 
Podophyllin.-H.  &  C,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).    D.,  gr.  1-2  (gm.  .06-.12). 
Pomegranate.— See  Granatum. 

POTASSA,  Solution  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  ^-1  (cc.  15.-30.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  H 
(cc.  2.-4.).     D.,  (m.  5-20  (cc.  .3-1.3). 

Potassium  Acetate.— H.  &  C,  oz.  i-1  (gm.  15.-30.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  i- 
1  (gm.  2.-4.)     D.,  gr.  5-20  (gm.  .3-1.3). 

Potassium  Bicarbonate. — Dose  same  as  Acetate. 

Potassium  Bitartrate.— H.  &  C,  oz.  ^1  (gm.  15.-30.).  Sh.  &  Sw., 
oz.  i  (gm.  15.).     D.,  dr.  i-1  (gm.  2.-4.). 

Potassium  Bromide.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  2- 
4  (gm.  8.-15.).    D.,  gr.  5-60  (gm.  .3-4.). 


644  IK)SE  TABLE 

Potassium  Carbonate.— H.  &  C,  oz.  i-1  (gm.  15.-30.).  Sh.  &  Sw. 
dr.  i-1  (gm.  2.-4.).     D.,  gr.  5-20  (gm.  .3-1.3). 

Potassium  Chlorate.  ^Dose  same  as  Carbonate. 

Potassium  Citrate. — Dose  same  as  Carbonate. 

Potassium  Nitrate.— Dose  same  as  Carbonate. 

Quassia,  Extract  of.— H.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).     D.,  gr.  i-3  (gm.  .03-.2). 

Quassia,  Fluid  Extract  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).  Sh.  &  Sw., 
dr.  2-4  (cc.  8.-15.).    D.,  m.  15-60  (cc.  1.-4.). 

Quassia,  Tincture  of.—        oz.  2-4  (cc.  60.-120.).     D.,  dr.  ^-2  (cc.  2.-8.). 

QUASSHN.— D.,  gr.  i-|  (gm.  .008-.02). 

QuERCUS  Alba.— H.,  oz.  i-1  (gm.  15.-30.).  C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.). 
Sh.  and  Sw.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).     D.,  gr.  10-30  (gm.  .6-2.). 

QuERCUS  Alba,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Dose  same  as  Quercus  Alba. 

QuiNiDiNE.— Tonic  dose— H.  (gr.  20-60  (gm.  1.3-4.).  C,  dr.  f-H  (gm. 
3.-6.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  6-15  (gm.  .36-1.).  D.,  gr.  li-2i  (gm.  .1-.15). 
Antipyretic  dose— H.,  dr.  2^-5  (gm.  10.-20.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  20-40 
(gm.  1.3-2.6).     D.,  gr.  7-15  (gm.  .5-1.). 

Quinine  and  its  Salts.— Tonic  dose— H.,  gr.  15-60  (gm.  1.-4.)  C,  dr. 
i-li  (gm.  2.-6.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-.6).  Dogs  and  Cats, 
gr.  1-2  (gm.  .06-.12).  Antipyretic  dose— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.- 
15.)  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  20-40  (gm.  1.3-2.6).  Dogs  and  Cats,  gr.  5-10' 
(gm.  .3-.6). 

QuiNOiDiN. — Dose  three  or  four  times  that  of  Quinine. 

Resorcin.— H.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).  Foals  and  Calves,  dr.  i-1  (gm.  2.-4.). 
D.,gr.  2-5  (gm.  .12-.3). 

Rhamnus  Catharticus,  Syrup  of.— D.,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).  Cats,  oz. 
i-1  (qc.  15.-30.). 

Rhamnus  Catharticus,  Fluid  Extract  of.— D.,  dr.  i-1  (cc.  2.-4  ) 

Rhubarb.— Stomachic  -H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  1 
(gm.  4.).  D.,  gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-.6).  Purgative— Foals,  Calves  and 
Dogs,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.). 

Rhubarb,  Fluid  Extract  of.— Dose  same  as  Rhubarb. 

Rhubarb,  Compound  Powder  of.— Foals  and  Calves,  oz.  ^-1  (gm. 
15.-30.). 

Sabina,  Fluid  Extract  of.— H.,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).     D.,  m.  5-15  (cc. 
.   .3-1.). 

Sabina,  Oil  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-4  (cc.  8.-15.).    D.,  m.  1-5  (cc.  .06-.3). 


DOSR  table:  6^5) 

Salicin.— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-8  (gm.  8.-30.).    Sh.,  dr.  1-C(gin.  4.-15.).    Sw,,: 
dr.  i-1  (gm.  2.-4.).     D.,  gr.  5-30  (gm.  .3-2.). 

Salol.— H.,  dr.  i-4  (gm.  1.-15.).     D.,  gr.  1-3  (gm.  .06-.2).     Puppieg, 
gr.  i-i  (gm.  .015-.O3).  -  --         --:: 

Savin.— See  Sabina.  .---.<>-, 

SCAMMONY.— D.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).     Cats,  dr.  f-1  (gm.  2.-4.).        ;   ^  ^^  -- 
SCAMMONY,  Resin  of.— D.,  dr.  ^-1  (gm.  2.-4.).   Cats,  gr.  15-30  (gm.  1.-2.).-, 

Senna.— H.  &  C,  oz.  4-5  (gm.  120.-150.).    Sh.  &  Sw.,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.- 
60).     D.,.dr.  1-4  (gm.  4.-15.). 

Senna,  Fluid  Extract  of.— Dose  same  as  Senna. 

Silver  Nitrate.— H.  &  C,  gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-.6).    Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  l-S 
(gm.  .06-.12).     D.,  gr.  i-^  (gm.  .008-.03). 

Soda,  Solution  of.— H.  &  C,  oz.  i-1  (cc.  15.-30.).    Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  i-1 
(cc.  2.-4.).     D.,  m.  5-20  (cc.  .3-1.3). 

Sodium  Bicarbonate.— H.  &  C!,  oz.  i-2  (gm.  15.-60.).    Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr. 
i-1  (gm.  2.-4.).     D.,  gr.  5-30  (gm.  .3-2.). 

Sodium  Carbonate.— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-6  (gm.  8.-24.).    Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  20- 
40  (gm.  1.3-2.6).    D.,  gr.  5-20  (gm.  .3-1.3). 

Sodium  Chloride.— Purgative— Cattle,  lb.  i-1    (gm.  250. -500;).    Sh., 
oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.). 

Sodium  Bromide.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).    Sh.  &Sw.,  dr.  2-4 
(gm.  8.-15.).     D.,gr.  5-60  (gm.  .3-4.). 

Sodium  Iodide.— H.,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  8.-15.).    C,  dr.  6  (gm.  24.).    Sh.  & 
Sw.,  gr.  15-30  (gm.  1.-2.).     D.,  gr.  2-10  (gm.  .12-.6). 

Sodium  Phosphate.— C,  lb.  1-li  (gm.  500.-750.).     H.  &  Sh.,  oz.  2-4 
(gm.  60.-120.).     D.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.). 

Sodium  Salicylate.— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-8  (gm.  8.-30.).    Sh.,  dr.  1-4  (4.-15.>. 
Sw.,  dr.  i-1  (gm.  2.-4.).     D.,  gr.  5-30  (gm.  .3-2.). 

Sodium  Sulphate.— C.  ,  lb.  1-li  (gm.  500.-750.).    H.,  oz.  2-4  (gm.  60.- 
120.).     Sh.,  oz.  2-4  (g.  60.-120.).     D.,  dr.  1-4  (gm.  4.-15.). 

Sodium  Sulphite,  Bisulphite  and  Hyposulphii'e. — H.  &  C,  oz.  1 
(gm.  30.).     Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  i-1  (gm.  2.-4.).     D.,.gr.  5-30  (gm.  .3-2.). 

Squill.— H.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).    C,  dr.  2-4  (gm.  .8.-15.).    Sh.,  gr.  15- 
30  (gm.  1.-2.).     D.,  gr.  1-5  (gm.  .06-.3).;       ,  :  :    >,  .::::/     -. ;    ■  .• 

Squill,  Fluid  Extract  of.-— Dose  same  as  Squill.  /:  -  .^  :  : ;       r:  ;'; 

Squill,  Tincture  of.— H.,  dr.  6-12  (cc.  24.-48.).   C.,oz:  l|-3  (cc.  45.-90.). 
Sh.,  dr.  i*-8^^co^6;-ia.).    D.,  m.  5-30  (cc.  .3.2.^  ^t'k:J  ::;::::.:;  iV 


646  DOSE  TABLE 

Squill,  Syrup  of.— H.,  oz.  i  (cc.  15.).    D.,  dr.  ^1  (cc.  2.-4.). 

Squill,  Compound  Syrup  of. — D.,  m.  5-30  (cc.  .3-2.). 

Strophanthus,  Tincture  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  1-4  (cc.  4.-15.).  D.,  m.  2-10 
(cc.  .13-.6). 

Strophanthin.— H.,  gr.  ^|  (gm.  .012-.03).  D.,  gr.  ^ho-is  (gm.  .0006- 
.001). 

Strychnin*  and  its  Salts.— H.,  gr.  ^2  (gm.  .03-.  12).  C,  gr.  2-8  (gm. 
.12-.2).    Sh.,  gr.  i-1  (gm.  .OlS-.OO).    D.,  gr.  ^-^  (gm.  .0005-.001). 

Sulphur.— H.  &  C,  oz.  2-4  (gm.  60.-120.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.- 
60.).     D.,  dr.  i-4  (gm.  2.-15.). 

Taraxacum.— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  dr.  2-4  (gm. 
8.-15.).     D.,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.). 

Taraxacum,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Dose  same  as  Taraxacum. 

Taraxacum,  Extract  of.-H.  &  C,  dr.  1-4  (gm.  4.-15.).  D.,  gr.  5-30 
(gm.  .3-2.). 

Terebene.— H.  &  C,  dr.  2-6  (cc.  8.-24.).    D.,  m.  5-15  (cc.  .3,1.). 

Terpin  Hydrate.— H.,  dr.  ^2  (gm.  2.-8.).    D.,  gr.  5-20  (gm.  .3-1.3). 

Thymol.— H., dr.  i-2  (gm.  2-8.).    D.,  gr.  1-15  (gm.  .06-1.). 

Turpentine,  Oil  of.— Carminative— H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (cc.  30.-60.).  Sh. 
and  Sw.,  dr.  1-4  (cc.  4.-15.).  D.,  m.  10-30  (cc.  .6-2.).  Anthelmintic 
— H.  &  C,  oz.  2-4  (cc.  60.-120.).  D.,  dr.  4-4  (cc.  2.-15.).  Diuretic— 
H.  &  C,  dr.  2-6  (cc.  8.-24.). 

Valerian.-H.  &  C,  oz.  1-2  (gm.  30.-60.).     D.,  gr.  10-60  (gm.  .6-4.). 

Valerian,  Fluid  Extract  of.— Dose  same  as  Valerian. 

Valerian,  Tincture  of.— D.,  dr.  i-2  (cc.  2.-8.). 

Valerian,  Ammoniated  Tincture  of .— D.,  dr.  ^-2  (cc.  2.-8.).  '^ 

Valerian,  Oil  of.-H.,  dr.  H  (cc.  2.-4.).     D.,  m.  2-5  (cc.  .12..3). 

Valerianate  of  Ammonium.— D.,  gr.  2-5  (gm.  .12-.3). 

Valerianate  of  Iron.— D.,  gr.  1-3  (gm.  .06-.2). 

Valerianate  of  Zinc— D.,  gr.  1-3  (gm.  .06-.2). 

VERATRINE.-H.,  gr.  ^-2  (gm.  .03-.  12).  C,  gr.  2-5  (gm.  .12-.3).  D., 
gr.  sVi^Cgm.  .0012-.006). 

Veratrum  Viride.— H.  &  C,  dr.  ^-1  (gm.  2.-4.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  20- 
30  (gm  1.3-2.).     D..gr.  i^-1  (gm.  .006-.06). 

Veratrum  Viride,  Fluid  Extract  of. — Dose  same  as  Veratrum  Viride, 


DOSE  TABLE  647 

Veratrum  Viride,  Tincture  of.— H.  &  C,  dr.  1-2  (cc.  4.-8.).  Sh.  «fe 
Sw.,  m.  40-60  (cc.  2.6-4.).     D.,  m.  ^-2  (cc.  .012-.12). 

Whiskey.— H.  &  C,  oz.  2-4  (cc.  60.-120.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  oz,  1-2  (cc.  30.- 
60.).     D.,  dr.  1-4  (cc.  4.-15.). 

Wild  Cherry,  Syrup  of.  -D.,  dr.  1-4  (cc.  4.-15.). 

Wintergreen,  Oil  of.— See  Gaultheria. 

Zinc  Acetate.— H.  &  C,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  10-20 
(gm.  .6-1.3) .    D.,  gr.  2-3  (gm.  .12-.2). 

Zinc  Oxide.— H.  &  C,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).    D.,  gr.  5-10  (gm.  .3-.6). 

Zinc  Phosphide.— D.,  gr.  ^  (gm.  .006). 

Zinc  Sulphate.— H.  &  C,  dr.  1-2  (gm.  4.-8.).  Sh.  &  Sw.,  gr.  10-20 
(gm.  .6-1.3).  D.,  gr.  2-3  (gm.  .12-.2).  Emetic— D.,  gr.  10-15  (gm. 
:6-l.). 


GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC   MEASURES, 


Food  and  Feeding. 

In  order  to  comprehend  the  rationale  of  feeding  in  dis- 
ease it  is  essential  to  know  something  of  the  principles  of 
feeding  in  health.  A  food  has  been  defined  as  "  that  which, 
being  innocuous  in  relation  to  the  tissues,  is  a  digestible, 
absorbable  substance  that  can  be  oxidized  in  the  body  and 
decomposed  in  such  a  way  as  to  give  up  to  the  body  the 
forces  it  contains." 

A  complete  food  is  composed  of  organic  and  inor- 
ganic constituents.  The  inorganic  matters,  with  the  ex- 
ception of  common  salt,  and  rarely  phosphate  of  lime 
and  sodium,  are  usually  present  in  sufficient  quantity  in 
ordinary  food.  The  organic  components  of  vegetable  food 
stuffs  are  divided  into  nitrogenous  and  non-nitrogenous 
classes.  These  are  analogous  to  the  constituent  parts  of  the 
animal  body  into  which  they  are  transformed.  The  greater 
portion  of  animal  tissue  is  made  up  of  nitrogenous  elements, 
while  the  larger  part  of  plants  is  composed  of  non-nitrogen- 
ous material.  Among  the  nitrogenous  elements  the  most 
important  are  the  proteids.  Gluten  of  flour  is  an  example  of 
a  vegetable  proteid  ;  while  white  of  egg,  casein  of  milk,  and 
fibrin  of  blood  represent  animal  proteids.  Fat  exists  as 
such  in  both  plants  and  animals.  A  single,  chemical  com- 
pound, as  protein,  is  known  as  a  nutrient  in  relation  to  feed- 
ing. The  nutrients  of  importance  are  proteids,  fat,  and 
carbohydrates.  The  first  two  are  common  to  animal  and 
plant  structure ;  the  latter  to  plants  alone.  A  complete 
food  contains  the  three  nutrients  just  mentioned  and  inor- 
ganic substances.  Carbohydrates  include  such  bodies  as 
sugar,  starch,  and   cellulose,   or   woody   matter   of  plants. 

648 


POODS   AND   FEEDING  649 

Proteids  consist}  of  carbon,  hydrogen,  oxygen,  nitrogen,  and 
sulphur,  united  in  different  proportions.  Carbohydrates  are 
composed  of  carbon,  hydrogen  and  oxygen.  Fat  is  similar 
in  composition  to  carbohydrates,  but  in  its  combustion  out- 
side the  body  yields  approximately  two  and  a  half  times  as 
much  heat  as  that  produced  by  an  equal  weight  of  carbo- 
hydrate. Fat  as  a  nutrient,  is  therefore  empirically  regarded 
as  equivalent  to  two  and  a  half  times  the  same  weight  of 
carbohydrate  material.  The  percentage  of  digestibility  of 
the  common  food  stuffs  has  been  determined  experimentally 
and  is  pretty  uniform  in  all  healthy  animals.  In  100  lbs.  of 
hay  there  are  approximately  : 

Per  cent.  Lbs. 

Lbs.                  digested.  digested. 

Protein 9.7                     .56  5..4 

Carbohydrates 67.3                      .60  40.4 

Fat ; 2.5                       .48  1.2 

If  we  multiply  the  1.2  lbs.  of  digestible  fat  by  2.5  to 
reduce  it  to  the  same  terms  as  carbohydrates  according  to 
the  empirical  premises  stated  above,  we  have  3  lbs.  of  carbo- 
hydrates. The  total  amounts  of  carbohydrates  digestible  in 
100  lbs.  of  hay  is  therefore  40.4  lbs.  +  3  lbs.  =  43.4  lbs.  of 
jion-nitrogenous  matter.  The  nitrogenous  nutrient  consists  of 
>5.4  lbs.  of  digestible  protein,  and  the  proportion  of  the  latter 
to  the  digestible  non-nitrogenous  material  is  as  1  to  8.  This 
.proportion  in  any  given  fodder  is  called  the  nutritive  ratio,  or 
the  relation  of  the  nitrogenous  to  the  non-nitrogenous  nutri- 
ents. The  nutritive  ratio  is  of  the  greatest  importance,  as  it 
enables  us  to  compose  a  proper  ration  with  almost  any  kinds 
<^f  fodder  at  hand,  by  so  adjusting  them  that  we  secure  the 
right  proportion  of  nutrients.  The  proper  nutritive  ratio  is 
indeed  that  proportion  of  nutrients  which. has  been  found  to 
be  most  economically  and  physiiologically  valuable  in  any 
^iven  class  of  animals  and  for  any  given  purpose.  The 
nutritive  ratio  varies  accordingly  for  different  animals  and 
f PI"  the  same  animals  under  different  conditions.    Such  ratios 


650  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

have  been  formulated  by  means  of  physiological  experiments 
on  healthy  animals  as  employed  for  economic  purposes. 

It  is  self-evident  that  nutritive  ratios  cannot  be  laid 
down  for  diseased  animals,  and  we  must  content  ourselves 
with  observing  how  disease  alters,  in  a  general  way,  the 
requirements  of  the  normal  animal.  The  following  table  of 
nutritive  ratios  suitable  for  the  animals  and  purposes  named, 
is  taken  from  Armsby's  "  Cattle  Feeding."  The  nutritive 
ratio  is  estimated  for  1000  lbs.  live  weight  per  diem. 

Nutritive  Total  lbs.  of 

Ratio.  Nutrients. 

Horses  at  work 1:    7  13.00 

Horses  heavily  worked....        1  :    5.5  17.00 

Milch  cows 1:    5.4  15.40 

Oxenatrest 1:12  8.85 

Sheep  for  wool. 1:9  11.70 

For  example,  the  nutritive  ratio,  or  the  proportion  of 
lbs.  of  proteids  to  lbs.  of  carbohydrates  and  fat  for  horses  at 
work,  should  be  as  one  to  seven  ;  and  the  total  number  of 
lbs.  of  pure  fat  (transformed  into  terms  of  carbohydrates), 
carbohydrates,  and  protein  required  to  support  1000  lbs.  of 
live  weight  of  horses  at  work,  per  diem,  is  thirteen. 

Horses  doing  hard  work,  and  all  animals  supplying 
nitrogenous  products,  as  wool  and  milk,  demand  more  nitro- 
gen in  their  food.  The  proteids,  as  we  have  seen,  constitute 
a  large  proportion  of  the  solids  and  fluids  of  the  body.  A 
greater  part  of  the  assimilated  protein  circulating  in  the 
blood  and  fluids  of  the  body  is  termed  circulating  protein, 
and  is  mainly  instrumental  in  supplying  the  immediate 
needs  required  in  the  performance  of  the  vital  functions.  A 
smaller  part  of  the  proteids  furnished  the  economy  is  fixed 
as  a  constituent  part  of  the  tissues,  and  is  called  organic,  or 
tissue  protein.  If  the  amount  of  circulatory  protein  is 
deficient,  then  the  organized  protein  is  called  upon,  the 
tissues  are  robbed  of  their  substance,  and  the  body  emaciates. 
When  a  larger  amount  of  protein  is  contained  in  the  blood, 
we  have  a  proportionately  larger  elimination  of  nitrogenous 


FOOD   AND  FEEDING  651 

matter  in  the  urine,  as  equilibrium  is  soon  established  in  the 
adult  animal  of  constant  weight,  so  that  the  amount  of  nitro- 
gen eliminated  equals  that  ingested.  In  young  and  growing 
animals  a  portion  of  the  nitrogen  does  not  reappear  in  the 
urine,  but  is  utilized  in  tissue  formation.  An  excess  of 
circulating  protein,  besides  being  wasteful  economically,  is 
harmful  in  causing  plethora  and  various  disordered  condi- 
tions, resulting  in  the  formation  of  uric  acid  and  other 
products  of  imperfect  oxidation.  Nevertheless,  a  certain 
surplus  of  protein  appears  to  be  essential  for  the  well-being 
of  animals  ;  more  than  is  necessary  to  make  good  the  loss  of 
protein  through  tissue  waste  as  determined  by  estimation 
of  the  nitrogenous  elimination  in  the  urine  of  fasting  animals. 

The  vegetable  proteids  are  transformed  into  bodies  of 
simpler  chemical  composition  in  the  stomach  and  are  there 
converted  in  part  by  the  gastric  juice,  but  chiefly  by  pan- 
creatic (trypsin),  biliary  and  intestinal  ferments  in  the  intes- 
tines, into  peptone,  the  only  form  in  which  protein  can  be 
absorbed  by  the  digestive  tract. 

The  epithelial  cells  of  the  intestines  possess  the  power 
not  only  to  absorb  the  peptone  but  to  transmute  it  into 
different  isomeric  compounds,  as  serum  albumin,  serum 
globulin  and  fibrinogen  ;  special  cells  being  employed  in  the 
formation  of  particular  compounds. 

Any  peptone  not  so  converted  by  the  intestinal  epithe- 
lium becomes  a  poison  when  absorbed  into  the  entero-hepatic 
circulation,  but  its  toxicity  is  destroyed  by  the  liver  cells. 
The  protein  elements  (as  serum  albumin)  in  the  blood  con- 
sist of  those  absorbed  unchanged  from  the  intestines  and 
those  different  isomeric  forms  which  have  been  used  in  the 
body,  and  all  are  eliminated  and  oxidized  by  the  excretory 
glands  with  the  production  of  heat  and  escape  of  the  pro- 
ducts of  tissue  waste,  as  urea,  uric  acid  and  water  from  the 
kidneys ;  bilirubin,  taurocholic  acid,  etc.,  from  the  liver. 
Heat  is  evolved  in  this  oxidation  of  proteid  substances  in  the 
glands  equivalent  to  1,812  kilogram  meters  for  each  gramme 
of  protein  consumed.  ...... 


652  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

This  heat  formation  is  of  extreme  importance  in  stimu- 
lating and  sustaining  nervous  action. 

Among  proteids  in  food  are  the  nucleoalbumins,  so-called 
because  they  exist  in  both  animal  and  vegetable  cells.  The 
nucleoalbumins  are  extremely  valuable,  since  they  contain 
iron  and  phosphorus.  They  are  absorbed  by  special  epithe- 
lial cells  of  the  intestinal  walls  and  are  converted  in  part 
into  animal  nucleoalbumin,  as  found  in  the  various  cells  of 
the  body  and  iu  milk  and  eggs ;  while  a  portion  is  oxidized 
and  split  up  in  the  liver,  forming  haemoglobin,  the  iron  com- 
pound of  the  blood,  and  lecithin,  the  phosphorus  compound 
essential  to  nervous  tissue.  It  is  now  held  that  iron  can 
only  be  supplied  the  blood  as  a  nucleoalbumin  and  that 
when  iron  is  given  as  medicine  it  acts  indirectly  by  protect- 
ing the  iron  in  the  nucleoalbumins  of  the  food  from  destruc- 
tion (p.  186). 

Protein  is  first  of  all  a  tissue  builder,  and  is  also  a  source 
of  energy  by  its  decomposition.  A  dog  can  live  on  lean  meat 
(pure  protein)  for  months  and  gain  in  weight. 

Carbohydrates  in  the  food,  as  sugar  and  starch,  are 
digested  in  part  by  the  salivary  ferment  (ptyalin),  but  chiefly 
by  the  pancreatic  ferment  (trypsin)  in  the  intestines,  and  are 
converted  by  them  into  glucose.  The  glucose  is  then 
absorbed  by  the  small  intestines,  passes  thence  into  the 
enterohepatic  circulation  and  is  oxidized  within  the  liver 
cells  with  the  production  of  heat  equivalent  to  1,657  kilogram 
meters  for  each  gramme  of  carbodydrate  consumed,  while 
carbon  dioxide  and  water  are  formed  as  end-products.  The 
heat  production,  as  in  the  case  of  the  combustion  of  proteids, 
is  of  great  importance  in  sustaining  nerve  action. 

Animal  fat  in  the  food  is  emulsified  by  the  bile  and  by 
the  pancreatic  and  intestinal  secretions  and  is  absorbed  by 
special  cells  of  the  intestinal  mucous  membrane  and  passes 
into  the  lymphatics ;  thence  into  the  thoracic  duct  and 
eventually  appears  to  be  taken  up  by  the  pulmonary  alveoli 
and  there  oxidized  into  carbonic  dioxide  and  water  with 
production  of  heat. 


FOODS   AND   FEEDING  65'6 

Carbodydrates  do  not  directly  furnish  tissue  elements, 
but  do  so  indirectly  in  preventing  decomposition  (to  some 
extent)  of  protein  in  the  body,  and  in  lessening  its  consump- 
tion. In  this  way  the  comparatively  inexpensive  carbohy- 
drates will  compensate  for  an  insufficient  ration  of  costly 
proteids. 

It  is  asserted  that  this  action  of  carbohydrates  is 
explained  by  the  fact  that  these  nutrients  have  a  greater 
affinity  for  oxygen  than  proteids  and  so  are  the  first  to  undergo 
combustion. 

The  term  albumenoid  was  formerly  used  as  synonymous 
with  proteid,  but  is  now  employed  to  include  nitrogenous 
bodies  (gelatin)  derived  from  protein  in  the  body  but  not 
convertible  into  proteids.  These  bodies  do  not  take  the 
place  of  proteids,  but  appear  to  fulfil  the  functions  of  circu- 
lating protein,  and,  like  carbohydrates,  conserve  protein 
consumption,  but  are  not  tissue  builders. 

Carbohydrates  aid  directly  in  the  production  of  fat. 
Fat  in  the  food  may  be  directly  assimilated  as  such  if  there 
is  a  sufiicient  carbohydrate  and  proteid  ration  to  protect  it 
from  decomposition.   The  role  carbohydrates  play  includes  : 

1.  The  formation  of  tissue  indirectly  by  protecting  the 
proteid  elements  from  combustion  with  an  insufficient 
nitrogenous  diet. 

2.  The  generation  of  heat,  energy,  or  mechanical  work. 

3.  The  production  of  fat. 

Carbohydrates  cannot  be  relied  upon  as  sole  articles  of 
food.  The  fat  of  the  body  is  derived  from  the  decomposition 
of  proteids  and  carbohydrates,  and  directly  from  fat  con- 
tained in  the  food.  Fat  lubricates  the  tissues,  and  a  reason- 
able accumulation  serves  as  a  store  of  potential  energy  to  be 
called  upon  in  time  of  need,  when  its  action  is  similar  to  that 
of  carbohydrates.  The  main  source  of  muscular  energy, 
movement,  or  mechanical  work,  is  thought  to  reside  in  the 
carbohydrates,  because  with  excessive  muscular  work  there 
is  increased  evolution  of  heat,  carbonic  dioxide  and  water. 
In  so  far  as  muscular  energy  and  power  depend  upon  a  good 


654  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC   MEASURES 

machine,  in  so  far  do  the  proteids  aid  the  work  of  the 
machine  by  keeping  it  in  good  repair  and  workiug  order. 
From  this  point  of  view  the  proteids  represent  the  mechan- 
ism by  which  the  work  is  done ;  the  carbohydrates  the  fuel 
necessary  for  its  performance. 

The  exact  relative  value  of  carbohydrates  and  proteids 
in  the  production  of  the  vital  forces  is  still  sub  judice. 
Nervous  activity  is  inseparable  from  muscular  activity ;  both 
seem  to  require  a  highly  nitrogenous  regimen,  and  such  a 
regimen  is  conducive  to  both.  The  classes  of  food  stuffs 
for  the  larger  animals  embrace  both  green  and  dry  fodder, 
consisting  of  the  whole  plant  minus  the  roots ;  parts  from 
which  the  more  valuable  portions  have  been  removed,  as 
straw;  tubers  and  roots  containing  a  large  percentage  of 
water;  the  seeds  or  grains,  constituting  the  most  concentrated 
food  ;  and  the  seed  coverings  or  chaff. 

Kefuse  and  bye-products  of  manufacture  are  extensively 
used,  as  bran,  cottonseed  meal,  linseed  meal,  and  brewers' 
grains.  In  addition,  animal  matter,  as  flesh  meal,  bone 
meal,  and  dried  blood,  are  sometimes  of  value.  Pasture 
grass  may  be  taken  as  a  standard  of  couiparison  for  green 
fodders.  In  100  lbs.  of  grass  there  are  approximately 
digestible : 

Protein 2.5  lbs. 

Fat 0.5  ♦' 

Carbohydrates 15.0   " 

Green  clover  contains  considerably  more,  green  rye 
slightly  more,  and  green  oats  somewhat  less  protein  ;  while 
in  green  corn  fodder  there  is  only  about  half  as  much  pro- 
tein. Roots,  as  compared  with  green  pasture  grass,  possess 
only  one-third  the  quantity  of  protein  and  solids.  Potatoes, 
however,  have  double  the  nutritive  value  of  roots.  Com- 
parison is  made  in  reference  to  protein,  as  that  is  by  far  the 
most  valuable  nutrient,  and  the  amount  of  carbohydrates 
and  fat  do  not  vary  much  in  similar  kinds  of  fodder. 

JMeadow  hay,  including  such  common  varieties  as  timo- 
thy and  red  top,  may  be  taken  as  a  standard  of  comparison 


FOOD   AND   FEEDING  655 

for  dry  fodder.     In  100  lbs.  of  hay  there  are  approximately 
digestible  : 

Protein 5.4  lbs. 

Fat 1.2    " 

Carbohydrates ,  40.4    " 

Clover  hay  has  double  the  amount,  and  rowen  or  after- 
math about  one-third  more  protein  than  is  contained  in 
ordinary  meadow  hay.  Oats  may  be  selected  as  a  standard 
of  comparison  for  grains.  100  lbs.  of  oats  contain  of  diges- 
tible nutrients  as  follows  : 

Protein 10.0  lbs. 

Fat 4.5   ' 

Carbohydrates 45 . 0  ** 

Corn  yields  slightly  less  protein  and  considerably  more 
carbohydrates  and  fat,  while  cottonseed  meal  contains  nearly 
three  times  as  much  protein,  and  four  times  as  much  fat  as 
are  found  in  oats.  Bran  (or  shorts)  has  approximately  the 
same  chemical  composition  as  oats.  The  straw  of  wheat, 
barley,  rye,  oats,  and  corn  have  a  somewhat  similar  value. 
In  100  lbs.  of  wheat  straw  there  are  digestible : 

Protein 0.8   lbs. 

Fat 0.3     " 

Carbohydrates 36.00  ** 

In  order  to  compare  the  composition  of  food  with  that 
of  the  tissues  into  which  it  is  converted,  we  submit  the 
following  : 

PERCENTAGE   COMPOSITION   OF  LIVE  ANIMAL. 
IN  100  LBS.  OF  LIVE  OX  THERE  ARE  : 

Protein 8.7  lbs. 

Fat 19.3   " 

Ash 5.9  " 

Water 66  2  " 

Certain  of  the  fodders  are  especially  adapted  or  other- 
wise for  the  various  domestic  animals.  Green  clover  is 
prone  to  fermentation  and  the  formation  of  flatulency  if 
given  in  large  quantities  to  any  animal.     A  sudden  change 


656  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC   MEASUiiES 

from  dry  to  luxuriant  green  food  is  always  undesirable  for  a 
similar  reason.  Green  grass  cut  short  by  a  lawn  mower 
should  not'be  given  horses,  as  it  is  swallowed  in  an  unmasti- 
cated  condition  and  leads  to  indigestion  and  colic.  Potatoes 
and  roots  are  more  suitable  for  ruminants  than  for  horses; 
yet  upon  the  latter  they  act  as  natural  and  agreeable  laxa- 
tives, and  form  a  palatable  addition  to  dry  fodder,  particu- 
larly carrots.  The  best  variety  of  hay  for  horses  consists 
of  good  bright  timothy  or  herds  grass  with  a  slight  admix- 
ture of  red  top  and  clover.  Carrots  should  be  sliced  longi- 
tudinally to  prevent  choking  when  given  to  horses.  Clover 
hay  is  dusty  and  apt  to  provoke  "  heaves  "  in  horses,  and 
that,  together  with  rowen,  is  more  appropriate  for  ruminants. 
Bran  is  but  poorly  digested  by  horses,  yet  acts  favorably 
as  a  laxative  when  given  once  or  twice  a  week  mixed  with 
boiling  water  and  plenty  of  salt,  constituting  a  *'  bran  mash." 
Bran  takes  the  place  of  oats  as  a  nitrogenous  food  for  rumi- 
nants, and  is  less  expensive.  Cottonseed  meal,  being 
extremely  rich  in  nitrogen,  and  usually  in  oil  or  fat,  is  not 
easily  digested  by  any  animal,  but  may  be  given  in  quanti- 
ties of  a  quart  or  two  to  ruminants,  and  from  half  a  pint  to 
a  pint  to  horses,  daily.  Cottonseed  meal  is  supplied  cattle 
to  compensate  for  a  deficiency  of  nitrogen  in  the  food,  while 
in  horses  it  acts  as  a  slight  laxative  and  may  improve  the 
general  condition.  Straw  and  corn  fodder  are  not  readily 
digested  by  horses  unless  cut  and  steamed,  but  are  suitable 
for  ruminants  and  are  often  preferable  to  a  poor  quality  of 
hay.  The  demands  of  the  system  for  food  vary  in  relation 
to  tissue  change,  which  is  diminished  by  rest,  increased  by 
work,  and  either  accelerated  or  decreased  by  disease.  The 
requirements  for  nutriment  are  greater  during  the  growing 
period  and  for  the  formation  of  the  various  natural  products, 
as  milk  or  wool.  The  state  of  the  digestive  organs  and 
assimilative  powers  guide  us  in  selecting  the  kind  and  quan- 
tity of  food  desirable.  In  acute  disease  it  is  advisable  to 
feed  little  and  often,  the  food  being  prepared  in  the  most 
digestible  and  palatable  form,  and  in  as  great  a  variety  as 


FOOD  AND  FEEDING  .  657 

attainable.  We  may  restrict  the  diet  as  a  whole  or  in  part. 
Starving  diminishes  circulatory  protein,  increases  tissue 
waste,  weakens  an  animal,  and  lessens  the  natural  resistance 
against  disease.  Restricting  the  diet  is  useful  in  controlling 
unmanageable  animals,  in  diminishing  sexual  excitement, 
and  in  the  treatment  of  plethora  when  combined  with  proper 
exercise.  In  most  acute  inflammatory  diseases,  as  in  acute 
laminitis,  a  light  laxative  diet  is  desirable,  as  steamed  oats 
with  bran  and  salt,  roots  and  green  fodder.  In  the  milder 
forms  of  acute  gastro-enteritis  we  must  restrict  the  diet  to 
small  quantities  of  easily  digested  food,  as  cracked  or 
steamed  oats,  chopped  hay  and  gruels,  with  the  addition  of 
a  little  green  fodder  or  roots  for  horses  ;  while  carnivora  are 
given  milk  and  lime  water.  In  chronic  digestive  disorders 
the  food  must  be  readily  digestible  and  assimilable,  and  of  a 
nitrogenous  character,  since  anaemia  and  malnutrition  follow 
the  defective  digestion  and  absorption.  In  chronic  indiges- 
tion or  gastro-enteritis  of  horses,  Zuill  recommends  oats 
(boiled,  scalded  or  steamed,  and  allowed  to  stand  12  hours), 
2  parts ;  bran,  1  part ;  and  malted  barley,  1  part.  The 
addition  of  salt  and  a  little  green  fodder  to  this  ration  is 
palatable  and  desirable.  The  dietary  for  constipation  in 
horses  should  consist  of  bran  mashes  twice  a  week  with 
plenty  of  salt ;  roots  and  green  fodder  at  frequent  intervals, 
combined  with  suitable  exercise  and  appropriate  drug  treat- 
ment. Dogs  suffering  from  constipation  may  be  given  raw 
liver  twice  a  week,  or  may  be  put  on  an  occasional  or  exclu- 
sive diet  of  one  of  the  commercial  dog  breads  or  biscuits. 
These  are  laxative  and  are  invaluable  in  eczema  of  dogs, 
commonly  resulting  from  lack  of  exercise  and  over-indul- 
gence in  food.  If  constipation  is  very  obstinate,  total  abstin- 
ence from  all  food,  water  excepted,  for  a  time,  followed  by 
the  use  of  lean  meat  with  salt  and  beef  tea,  are  indicated  till 
the  bowels  are  emptied  manually  or  by  enemata.  The  ration 
for  diarrhoea  embraces  the  partial  restriction  of  water,  which 
increases  the  bulk  and  fluidity  of  the  intestinal  contents  and 
so  stimulates  the  movements  of  the  bowels.  If  the  diarrhoea 


658  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

is  SO  severe  as  to  endanger  life,  an  abundance  of  pure  or 
boiled  water  should  be  allowed  in  order  to  compensate  for 
the  loss  of  fluid  from  the  blood. 

Theoretically,  an  albuminous  diet  is  indicated  in  diar- 
rhoea because  of  the  loss  from  the  blood  and  tissues,  and 
because  intestinal  digestion  is  disordered  and  starchy  food 
would  be  undigested  and  cause  fermentation,  etc.  Practically, 
a  certain  amount  of  starchy  food  seems  to  be  serviceable  in 
the  treatment  of  diarrhoea.  Horses  and  cattle  should  be 
given  cooked  flour  or  barley  gruel  and  roasted  oatmeal  and 
cracked  oats.  Coarse  foods,  as  bran  and  straw  and  green 
fodder,  are  not  allowable.  Swine  should  be  supplied  with 
gruels  of  barley,  flour  or  oatmeal  (strained). 

Fowl  with  diarrhoea  may  be  fed  on  boiled  rice  and  given 
a  few  drops  of  laudanum  two  or  three  times  daily.  Dogs  and 
cats  should  have  boiled  milk,  strained  rice  gruel,  cooked 
lean  meat  and  crackers.  Broths  and  beef  tea  are  not  desir- 
able, but  beef  juice  and  white  of  egg  in  water  are  of  value. 
These  dietaries  should  be  employed  in  conjunction  with 
other  measures,  as  the  preliminary  use  of  a  laxative,  rest, 
quiet,  and  external  heat  and  drug  treatment.  Young  suck- 
ling animals,  as  foals  and  calves,  may  be  fed  on  cooked  and 
strained  oatmeal  or  barley  gruel  made  with  milk,  if  the 
mother's  milk  does  not  agree.  In  severe  attacks  of  gastro- 
enteritis, or  in  gastric  or  intestinal  ulceration  with  haemor- 
rhage from  the  stomach  or  bowels,  the  food  should  be  bland 
and  fluid,  as  soaked  bread,  oatmeal,  barley  or  flour  gruels, 
linseed  tea  (made  by  boiling  linseed  in  a  muslin  bag 
immersed  in  water),  and  small  quantities  of  green  fodder  for 
the  larger  animals ;  while  milk  and  lime  water,  white  of  egg 
and  water,  broths  and  beef  juice  are  indicated  for  carnivora. 
In  the  latter  animals  we  may  have  to  resort  to  predigested 
food  given  by  the  mouth,  or,  if  vomiting  is  persistent,  by  the 
rectum. 

The  diet  in  cases  of  catarrhal  jaundice  should  be  easily 
digestible,  bland,  and  such  as  will  not  require  much  bile  for 
its  digestion.  •  The  larger  patients  should  be  given  gruels. 


FOOD   AND   FEEDING  659 

steamed  cracked  oats,  young  and  tender  green  food,  cooked 
potatoes,  together  with  alkalies  and  other  appropriate 
remedies.  Dogs  are  allowed  milk  and  lime  water,  crackers, 
bread  and  cooked  lean  meat.  Feeding  in  haemoglobiuaemia 
or  "black  water"  of  horses  must  be  restricted  to  the  use  of 
gruels,  green  fodder  and  a  little  hay  in  the  early  stages  of 
the  disorder.  Food  is  usually  withheld  12  hours  before 
surgical  operations,  and  this,  in  addition  to  the  administra- 
tion of  a  cathartic,  will  prevent  injury  in  casting  the  larger 
animals,  which  might  follow  were  the  digestive  tract  over- 
full. It  will  also  lessen  the  danger  of  intestinal  fermentation 
and  absorption  of  toxins  from  the  bowels,  which  may  occur 
after  operation  owing  to  an  enfeebled  digestive  action.  If 
dogs  are  starved  before  surgical  operation,  vomitiug  is  pre- 
vented during  or  after  etherization.  Water  alone  may  be 
restricted  to  advantage  in  obesity,  cardiac  disease  with 
oedema,  or  in  the  treatment  of  chronic  exudations,  as  in 
hydrothorax.  Water  may  be  allowed  in  these  conditions 
only  once  daily,  or  even  every  other  day ;  ;'ud  this  treatment 
may  be  combined  with  the  use  of  saline  cathartics  in  strong 
animals.  The  specific  gravity  and  density  of  the  blood  and 
the  tendency  to  absorption  from  the  tissues  and  cavities  is 
increased.  By  the  same  process  the  quantity  of  blood  is 
diminished  and  the  load  put  uj^on  the  heart  is  lessened, 
both  of  which  may  prove  beneficial  in  cardiac  diseases. 

A  full,  or  restorative  diet  should  be  especially  rich  in 
protein.  Generous  feeding  is  distinctly  in  order  in  the  treat- 
ment of  general  debility,  malnutrition,  anaemia,  weakness  of 
the  digestive  organs,  convalescence  from  acute  diseases  and 
in  animals  particularly  sensitive  to  cold,  or  in  those  which 
sweat  easily.  A.  full  diet  is  also  useful  in  overworked 
animals  and  in  those  subject  to  losses  from  increased  secre- 
tion, excretion,  or  exudation,  as  in  chronic  suppuration, 
diarrhoea,  albuminuria,  ascites  and  oedema.  A  restorative 
diet  for  herbivora  includes  grain,  as  corn,  bran,  oats  and 
cottonseed  meal ;  hay  and  grass,  with  occasionally  milk  and 
eggs.     For  omnivora,  corn,  potatoes,  blood,  milk  and  soups. 


660  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

For  carnivora,  meat  extracts,  milk,  eggs,  broths  and  meat 
juice.  Ill  most  wasting  diseases,  fat,  protein  and  water  are 
the  food  elements  especially  needful.  An  abundance  of 
water  stimulates  the  appetite,  secretions,  excretions,  tissue 
changes  and  vital  processes  generally.  Salt  should  be  given 
freely  as  an  aid  to  digestion  in  increasing  the  formation  of 
hydrochloric  acid,  and  indirectly  that  of  pepsin.  Alcohol, 
being  a  nutritive  mid  capable  of  easy  absorption,  assimila- 
tion and  decomposition  in  the  body,  forms  a  most  valuable 
adjunct  to  a  restorative  diet.  A  deficiency  of  lime  in  the 
food  is  occasionally  the  cause  of  rickets  in  the  young, 
and  fragilitas  ossium  in  the  old,  but  more  frequently  these 
diseases  are  due  to  defective  digestion,  assimilation,  or 
excessive  lactation.  Bone  meal  may  be  fed  to  advantage  in 
such  affections.  It  contains  both  lime  and  phosphoric  acid 
and  should  be  given  in  small  quantities  (1  tablespoonful  to 
large  animals  ;  1  teaspoouful  to  small  patients)  on  the  food 
in  conuection  with  the  administration  of  hydrochloric  acid 
and  bitters. 

In  fever  a  restricted  diet  is  often  xiecessary  in  the  more 
acute  stages,  with  loss  of  appetite,  diminished  secretions 
and  movements  of  the  stomach,  but  as  soon  as  convalescence 
sets  in  the  increased  tissue  waste  produces  an  excessive 
demand  for  food  and  the  digestive  organs  may  become  over- 
taxed. The  initial  dietetic  treatment  of  fevers  consists  in  the 
use  of  oats,  bran  mashes,  and  gruels,  with  the  addition  of  a 
small  quantity  of  grass  or  roots  for  horses.  The  change 
from  this  diet  should  be  very  gradual  to  a  dry,  coarse  fodder,, 
in  order  to  avoid  digestive  disorders.  The  bitters,  alcohol,^ 
hydrochloric  acid,  and  salt,  together  with  a  copious  su[)ply 
of  water,  will  furthermore  aid  convalescence.  Carnivora, 
with  fever,  should  be  fed  milk,  beef  juice,  broth,  bread,  oat- 
meal aud  a  small  quantity  of  cooked  lean  meat. 

Obesity  is  treated  most  advantageously  by  proper  feed- 
ing. A  certain  amount  of  fat  is  essential  in  the  body  in 
lubricating  the  tissues,  in  acting  as  a  protection  against  cold, 
in  serving  as  an  enveloping  and  shielding  cushion  to  the  un- 


FOOD   AND   FEEDING  661 

derljiiig  tissues,  and  finally  in  supplying  a  store  of  nutrition. 
Animals  living  in  cold  climates  are  covered  symetrically  by 
fat,  but  those  indigenous  in  liot  countries  have  accumulations 
of  fat  in  masses  to  avoid  over-heating  the  body.  This  is  seen 
in  the  hump  of  the  camel,  zebu  and  Brahmin  bull.  When  t'he 
camel  is  severely  taxed,  the  fat  is  consumed  and  the  hump  be- 
comes loose  and  flabby.  House  dogs  overfed  and  insuffici- 
ently exercised,  horses,  and  other  animals  kept  for  breeding 
purposes,  are  those  most  commonly  afflicted  with  obesity. 
Fat  in  the  body  may  be  formed  from  fat,  albuminoids,  and 
carbohydrates  of  the  food.  Carbohydrates,  if  in  excess  of 
the  needs  of  the  economy,  protect  the  fat  in  the  food  from 
decomposition  aud  so  enable  it  to  be  stored  in  the  body. 
Protein  may  aUo  protect  the  consumption  of  fat  of  the  food, 
for  it  is  broken  up  into  nitrogenous  and  non-nitrogenous 
elements,  and  the  latter  may  be  transformed  into  body  fat. 
The  accumulation  of  fat  proceeds  most  readily  when  there  is 
an  abundance  of  fat  in  the  food,  in  addition  to  the  other 
nutrients ;  less  so  when  the  ration  consists  of  fat  and  albu- 
minoids, or  of  carbohydrates  and  albuminoids;  and  least  of 
all  with  a  diet  consisting  of  pure  protein.  The  latter,  then, 
is  the  food  to  be  approached  as  near  its  purity  as  advisable. 
If  protein  ration  is  followed  too  closely,  digestive  disorders, 
loss  of  strength  and  nervous  disturbances  are  likely  to  occur. 
The  fat  resulting  from  the  decomposition  of  a  pure  protein 
fodder  is  usually  not  sufficient  to  supply  the  needs  of  the 
body,  and  the  organized  fat  is  gradually  called  upon  to  supply 
the  deficiency  in  the  food. 

Exercise,  cathartics,  diuretics  and  diarphoretics,  to- 
gether with  venesection,  are  synergistic  measures.  As 
emaciation  proceeds,  we  must  add  more  and  more  non- 
nitrogenous  material  to  our  ration.  Fat  is  said  to  accumu- 
late most  readily  in  the  vicinity  of  vascular  areas  where  the 
flow  of  blood  is  retarded,  and  therefore  oxidation,  combustion, 
and  molecular  activity  diminished.  Exercise,  on  the  other 
hand,  stimulates  the  circulation,  wliile  deprivation  of  water 
makes  the   blood-current  more   rapid  by  decreasing  the 


662  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

amount  of  blood.  Botli  therefore  favor  the  destr notion  of 
fat.  Vogel  has  reported  good  results  in  reducing  obesity  by 
the  use  of  the  following  rations.  From  19  to  26  weeks  are 
required  for  a  cure. 

DAILY  RATION  FOR  THE  HORSE. 

Oatmeal 7     lbs. 

Straw 3.5   " 

Hay 7      " 

Linseed  meal 1      " 

■  Salt Spercent.  of  above. 

DAILY  RATION  FOR  DOO  WEIGHINQ   115  LBS. 

Cooked  oatmeal 3     lbs. 

Fat K  " 

SAME  LATER. 

Oatmeal 1     lb. 

Flesh  meal 3^  " 

Fat M  ** 

Salt 1  teaspoonf  ul. 

DAILY  RATION  FOR  FAT  SETTER  OR  POINTER. 

Lean  meat 1%  l^s. 

Bread 1%   " 

Fat 3  oz. 

Animals  suffering  from  fatty  degenerative  changes  do 
not  stand  such  a  rigid  diet  as  the  foregoing.  These  ani- 
mals are  affected  with  a  weak  heart,  due  to  fatty  degenera- 
tion of  the  myocardium,  with  atrophy  of  its  muscular  fibres. 
They  have  dyspnoea  on  exertion.  The  cardiac  insufficiency 
leads,  in  its  turn,  to  secondary  troubles,  as  catarrh  of  the 
digestive  and  respiratory  organs,  and  disorder  of  the  liver 
and  kidneys,  following  general  passive  congestion.  The 
treatment  should  be  directed  in  such  cases  to  lessening  the 
amount  of  blood  and  the  work  put  upon  the  heart,  by  limit- 
ing the  ingestion  of  water,  and  by  strengthening  the  heart 
with  appropriate  stimulants.  The  activity  of  the  skin 
should  be  excited  by  frequent  grooming  and  the  use  of  diar- 
phoretics,  while  the  activity  of  the  kidneys  should  be  en- 
hanced by  the  employment  of  diuretics.     We  are  prevented 


FOOD  AND   FEEDING  663 

from  feeding  an  exclusively  nitrogenous  diet  in  these  cases, 
as  the  oxidizing  power  of  the  blood  is  not  sufficient  to  de- 
compose it,  neither  is  it  safe  or  advisable  to  quickly  remove 
the  fat,  as  cardiac  failure  might  ensue.  Small  quantities  of 
water  are  allowed,  given  two  hours  after  feeding.  The  gen- 
eral ration  should  be  rich  in  proteids  and  also  contain  a 
moderate  amount  of  fat  and  carbohydrates. 

ARTIFICIAL  FEEDING. 

Artificial  feeding  consists  in  the  introduction  of  food 
into  the  body  other  than  in  the  ordinary  way  by  the  mouth. 
Rectal  feeding  is  the  only  procedure  of  much  value.  The 
agents  employed  must  be  bland,  and  capable  of  easy  absorp- 
tion and  assimilation.  If  the  food  is  at  all  irritating,  tenes- 
mus and  ejection  quickly  occur.  From  two  to  four  ounces 
of  liquid  nourishment  may  be  given  to  small  or  medium- 
sized  dogs ;  from  four  to  eight  ounces  to  large  dogs.  One 
quart  may  be  employed  for  horses.  The  nutrient  enema 
should  be  introduced  into  the  bowel  through  a  flexible 
rubber  tube  carried  up  into  the  colon.  An  hour  before  the 
enema  is  given  the  bowel  is  to  be  washed  out  thoroughly 
with  cold  water.  The  nutrient  injection  should  not  be  given 
oftener  than  once  in  six  hours,  and  if  the  bowel  is  irritable, 
not  oftener  than  once  in  twelve  hours.  The  absorptive 
power  of  the  rectum  is  slight,  but  that  of  the  colon  is  con- 
siderably greater.  Predigested  food  is  most  valuable. 
Leube's  Beef  Peptone  may  be  used.  A  bullock's  pancreas 
is  finely  chopped  and  rubbed  up  with  eight  ounces  of  gly- 
cerin. This  extract  will  keep  fresh  several  weeks  in  a  cold 
place.  To  one-third  of  the  extract  are  added  five  ounces  of 
finely  chopped  beef,  and  the  mixture  is  ready  for  immediate 
use.  The  peptonizing  powders  of  Fairchild  Brothers  & 
Foster  are  most  convenient  in  preparing  digested  food. 
Each  powder  consists  of  five  grains  of  pancreatic  extract  and 
fifteen  grains  of  sodium  bicarbonate. 

A  useful  nutrient  enema  for  a  large  dog  may  be  made 
of  two  eggs  and  six  ounces  of  milk.     Four  to  six  eggs  may  be 


664  GENEKAL  THERAPEUTIC   MEASURES 

added  to  a  quart  of  milk  for  use  as  an  enema  for  a  horse. 
The  mixture  is  then  to  be  peptonized  and  introduced  into  the 
rectum  at  the  temperature  of  the  body.  In  using  the  pep- 
tonizing powders,  one  is  placed  in  a  quart  glass  jar  together 
with  a  teacupful  of  cold  water.  Then  a  pint  of  the  mixture 
to  be  peptonized  is  poured  into  the  jar,  and  the  latter  placed 
in  a  vessel  containing  water  as  hot  as  the  hand  will  easily 
bear.  The  jar  is  kept  in  the  hot  Water  for  twenty  minutes 
and  put  on  ice.  When  the  mixture  is  used  it  should.be 
heated  to  100°  F.  If  predigested  food  is  to  be  given  by  the 
mouth,  it  is  well  not  to  keep  the  glass  jar  immersed  in  hot 
water  more  than  five  minutes,  as  otherwise  the  taste  will  be 
bitter  and  disagreeable.  A  small  dose  of  laudanum  is  always 
useful  to  prevent  the  expulsion  of  enemata.  Brandy  may 
be  added  in  the  proportion  of  one  ounce  to  the. pint  of  milk 
after  peptonizing.  The  addition  of  salt  to  egg  albumin 
greatly  facilitates  absorption.  Gruels  of  all  kinds,  and 
broths,  may  be  peptonized,  as  well  as  milk.  It  is  not  essen- 
tial, however,  to  peptonize  milk  and  other  fluids,  although 
absorption  is  rendered  somewhat  more  complete.  The  di- 
gestive powers  of  the  large  intestines  are  but  slight.  Sugar 
is  absorbed  unaltered ;  undigested  proteids  (with  certain 
exceptions)  and  fat  are  not  absorbed.  Peptones,  soluble 
proteids,  as  milk,  meat  juice,  egg  albumin,  and  emulsified 
fat  are  absorbed.  Nevertheless,  absorption  from  the  lower 
bowel  is  trivial  compared  with  that  from  the  stomach  and  in- 
testines generally,  and  as  the  extent  of  surface  with  which 
rectal  injections  come  in  contact  is  small,  and  their  sojourn 
short,  it  follows  that  rectal  feeding  cannot  take  the  place  of 
normal  alimentation. 

In  tetanus,  paralysis  of  muscles  of  deglutition,  fracture 
of  the  jaw  in  horses,  persistent  vomiting  and  convulsions  in 
dogs,  and  in  all  animals  refusing  food,  rectal  feeding  is  in- 
dicated. It  is  possible  in  horses  to  feed  through  a  stomach 
tube. 


COUNTER-IRRITANTS  665 


Counter-irritants. 


A  counter-irritant  is  an  irritant  which  acts  counter,  or 
against  an  existing  irritation,  result  of  irritation,  or  pain. 
In  applying  a  "twitch"  to  a  horse,  we  are  ioflicting  an  irri- 
tation to  relieve  some  other  source  of  irritation  elsewhere. 
It  is  taken  for  granted  that  the  damage  and  pain  caused  by 
the  artificial  irritant  are  not  so  severe  as  those  already  ex- 
isting. The  amount  of  injury  produced  by  an  irritant 
depends  upon  the  nature  of  the  material,  its  strength,  the 
duration  of  its  action,  the  mode  of  application,  and  the  part 
to  which  it  is  applied.  We  may  consider  the  effects  oc- 
casioned by  a  mild  and  increasing  action  following  the 
continued  use  of  a  single  agent,  or  representing  the 
action  of  materials  of  different  degrees  of  potency.  There 
first  appears  redness  of  the  skin,  accompanied  by  some 
burning  or  pain  (rubefacient  action),  and  if  the  irritation 
progresses  there  is  a.  serous  exudate  poured  out  into  the 
mucous  layer  of  the  skin.  This  leads  to  swelling  and 
oedema.  Greater  irritation  causes  more  exudation  of  serum 
and  an  elevation  of  the  epidermis  in  a  circumscribed  area  or 
areas,  and  the  formation  of  blebs  or  blisters  (vesication). 
If  the  irritation  ceases  at  this  point,  the  blisters  break  open 
and  their  contents  dry  on  the  surface,  covering  the  parts 
with  a  thick  scab.  Synchronous  with  vesication  we  observe 
a  similar  process  attacking  the  hair  follicles.  The  hairs  are 
loosened  and  fall,  but  as  the  papillae  are  usually  unaffected, 
the  growth  of  hair  is  soon  renewed.  The  recovery  of  hair 
is  facilitated  by  the  application  of  grease  to  the  part.  Cer- 
tain agents  cause  circumscribed  inflammation  of  the  skin 
with  the  formation  of  pustules  (pustulants),  as  croton  oil, 
and  these  create  necrosis  of  the  hair  papillae  and,  therefore, 
permanent  loss  of  hair.  If  the  irritant  is  severe,  suppura- 
tion follows  vesication ;  or,  if  an  ordinary  irritant  is  ap- 
plied with  violent  friction,  is  covered  with  a  bandage,  or 
placed  over   an  already  inflamed   part,   the    same    result 


-1  \  ^  ^ 


666  GENEBAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

happens.     The  terms  referring  to  the  degree  of  action  in- 
herent in  {igeuts  are  as  follows  : 

1.  A  rubefacient,  causing  hjperaemia. 

2.  A  vesicant,  or  epispastic,  inducing  blistering. 

3.  A  pustulant,  creating  pustules. 

4  An  escharotic,  or  caustic,  occasioning  death  of  the 
tissues. 

The  same  agent,  as  has  already  been  pointed  out,  may 
produce  one  or  more  of  these  actions  according  to  circum- 
stances. The  inner  aspect  of  limbs  and  the  flexures  of  joints 
are  peculiarly  sensitive,  owing  to  the  thinness  of  the  skin 
over  these  areas.  If  a  counter-irritant  is  rubbed  properly 
into  the  skin  it  may  penetrate  into  the  mucous  layer. 

Reference  has  been  made  to  the  local  influence  of  irri- 
tants. We  will  now  direct  attention  to  their  remote  effect. 
It  is  certainly  known  that  irritation  of  the  surface  decidedly 
affects  distant  organs.  Brown-Sequard  noted  contraction  of 
vessels  in  one  arm  when  the  other  was  immersed  in  cold 
water.  Severe  burns  of  tlie  surface  are  followed  by  duo- 
denal ulcers.  The  preceding  and  succeeding  remarks  enable 
us  to  partially  account  for  the  remote  influence  of  counter- 
irritants,  but  although  we  know  their  practical  value,  it  is 
not  within  our  present  knowledge  to  offer  theories  wholly 
explaining  their  effeci 

The  influence  of  counter-irritants  may  be  summed  up 
in  reflex  action ;  i.  e.,  the  production  and  conduction  of  an 
impulse  from  the  periphery  to  nerve  centres,  thereby  modi- 
fying the  nerve  functions  and  blood  supply  in  distant 
parts. 

The  skin  is  commonly  the  point  of  application.  It  nor- 
mally is  an  organ  of  protection,  respiration,  secretion  and 
special  sense,  and,  through  its  medium,  a  regulator  of  tem- 
perature, responding  to  such  natural  stimuli  as  heat,  cold, 
moisture  and  dryness.  Such  an  unnatural  and  considerable 
stimulation  as  is  produced  by  counter-irritants  consequently 
creates  very  sensible  alterations  in  the  bodily  functions. 


i 


or  T«j 


'^  or  T«B  ^ 


COUNTER-IRRITANTS  667 

Extensive  counter-irritation  causes  the  breathing  to  become 
slower  and  deeper  by  reflex  stimulation  of  the  vagi,  and 
also  by  making  the  respiratory  movements  more  painful,  if 
the  application  be  made  to  the  chest  wall.  The  circulation 
is  likewise  affected,  and  both  the  force  of  the  heart  and 
blood  pressure  are  increased,  unless  the  irritation  is  very 
widespread  and  severe,  when  the  reverse  happens.  In  ac- 
cordance with  the  foregoing  remarks,  the  use  of  considerable 
heat,  together  with  mustard  or  turpentine,  is  of  great  value 
in  conditions  of  vital  depression,  surgical  shock,  collapse 
and  coma.  Moreover,  the  effect  on  local  blood  supply  is 
still  greater  and  full  of  importance,  since  it  may  explain  the 
beneficial  action  obtained  in  the  ordinary  use  of  counter- 
irritants.  In  experiments  conducted  upon  animals,  it  has 
been  observed  that  when  sinapisms  are  placed  over  the 
head,  the  blood  vessels  in  the  pia  mater  are  first  dilated,  but 
soon  contract  and  remain  in  that  condition  for  some  time. 
Likewise  there  was  seen,  following  energetic  counter-irrita- 
tion of  the  chest,  anaemia  of  the  underlying  parts,  including 
the  muscles,  pleura,  and  even  the  pulmonary  tissue.  It  is 
essential  to  bear  in  mind,  then,  that  while  counter-irritants 
induce  local  congestion  in  their  immediate  vicinity,  they  also 
cause  reflexly  vascular  contraction  in  more  remote  areas. 
In  accordance  with  this  demonstration,  the  importance  of 
these  agents  in  inflammation  lies  not  so  much  in  their  bring- 
ing blood  to  the  surface,  as  in  forcing  it  out  of  distant  parts. 
This  fact  is  not  generally  appreciated.  The  use  of  the  word 
"drawing"  signifies  the  common  idea  of  a  counter-irritant, 
and  implies  the  first  proposition. 

Temperature  is  not  materially  affected  by  the  therapeu- 
tic use  of  counter-irritants,  and  they  are  not  necessarily 
contraindicated  in  fevers.  Experiments,  however,  appear 
to  show  that  mild  counter-irritation  may  lead  to  a  slight 
elevation  of  body-heat,  owing  to  stimulation  of  the  calorifa- 
cient  centres,  while  extensive  and  prolonged  action  lowers 
temperature  by  diarphoresis  and  depression  of  the  heart  and 
heat  centres-. 


668  GENERAL  THERAPEDTIC  MEASURES 

Counter-irritants  notably  relieve  pain.  This  result  is 
not  only  due  to  overcoming  congestion,  but  occurs  when  pain 
is  purely  neuralgic.  The  phenomenon  is  not  altogether  ex- 
plicable. The  subduing  influence  of  a  twitch  in  the  case  of 
pain  inflicted  upon  a  horse  is  an  analogous  example.  Wechs- 
berg,  in  some  late  experiments,  notes,  as  a  most  striking 
effect  of  counter-irritants,  oedematous  infiltration  of  the  skin, 
subcutaneous  tissue  and  muscle  in  subadjaceut  parts,  with 
compression  of  blood  vessels  in  the  deeper-lying  structures. 
He  attributes  the  relief  of  pain  afforded  by  counter-irritants 
to  anaemia  and  rapid  compression  brought  to  bear  on  the 
nerves  in  these  underlying  parts;  a  result  similar  to  the 
anodyne  influence  observed  following  the  injection  of  nor- 
mal salt  solution  over  a  nerve-trunk,  which  is  the  principle 
of  Schleich's  method  of  local  ansesthesia  by  tissue  infil- 
tration. 

Still  this  explanation  does  not  interpret  the  relief  of 
pain  sometimes  seen  in  parts  remote  from  the  point  of 
application  of  counter-irritants. 

Pain  is  usually  referable  to  the  peripheral  ends  of  an 
affected  nerve.  It  is  good  practice  to  apply  counter-irrita- 
tion directly  over  a  deep-seated  inflammation  or  seat  of  pain, 
but  in  assuaging  superficial  pain  it  is  found,  tljat  where  the 
treatment  can  be  made  over  the  root  of  the  painful  nerve, 
better  results  are  obtained.  In  pain  in  the  chest  wall  a 
blister  should  be  placed  next  the  spine  over  the  root  of  the 
spinal  nerve  involved ;  in  pain  in  the  head  in  man,  counter- 
irritation  is  applied  over  the  back  of  the  neck.  Counter- 
irritation  should  be  done  behind  the  ear  to  relieve  pain  and 
inflammation  in  the  eye  and  ear. 

In  the  treatment  of  enlarged  glands  and  in  acute  inflam- 
mations, as  abscess,  boils  and  carbuncles,  by  counter- 
irritants,  the  application  should  be  about  the  lesions  rather 
than  directly  upon  them. 

Among  other  actions  accomplished  by  counter-irritants 
are  :  possible  stimulation  of  trophic  nerves  and  nutrition  of 
a  part ;  augmentation  of  tissue  change,  locally  and  gener- 


COUNTER-IE  EIT  ANTS  669 

ally,  and  dilatation  of  vessels  (when  applied  after  the  sub- 
sidence of  acute  inflammation  or  in  chronically  inflamed 
parts),  with  renewed  activity  of  the  circulation  and  conse- 
quent absorption  of  inflammatory  exudations.  Further- 
more, counter-irritants  reflexly  overcome  spasm  and  pain 
occurring  in  colic,  by  stimulating  and  replacing  normal 
peristaltic  action  in  place  of  abnormal  localized  contractions. 
In  like  manner  they  excite  uterine  contractions  by  stimula- 
tion of  the  involuntary  muscular  fibres  of  the  womb. 

INDICATIONS  FOR   COUNTER-IRRITANTS. 

1.  To  overcome  congestion  and  inflammation  in  remote 
parts. 

2.  To  promote  absorption  of  inflammatory  products 
locally. 

3.  To  relieve  pain. 

4.  To  stimulate  the  heart,  respiration  and  nervous  func- 
tions. 

liuhefacients. — In  this  class  are  included  the  volatile 
oils — turpentine,  oil  of  wintergreen,  etc. — alcohol,  chloro- 
form, balsams,  resins,  iodine,  tincture  of  camphor,  tincture 
of  cantharides,  mustard,  and  heat.  These  agents  are  used 
when  it  is  desirable  to  stimulate  the  nervous  system  rapidly, 
and  to  relieve  pain  and  congestion.  To  attain  this  end,  we 
employ  comparatively  mild  agents  in  order  that  we  may 
apply  them  over  an  extensive  surface  without  causing  seri- 
ous or  permanent  results.  Mustard  is  rubbed  with  warm 
water  into  a  thin  paste  (a  sinapism),  and  rubbed  over  the 
chest  of  horses  iu  congestion  of  the  lungs,  in  acute  bron- 
chitis, or  in  the  first  stage  of  pleuritis,  to  obtund  pain  and 
lessen  congestion.  Sinapisms  also  relieve  obstinate  cough, 
revive  failing  respiration,  and  stimulate  reflexly  the  vital 
functions  in  collapse,  shock  and  narcotic  coma.  Applied 
over  the  cardiac  region,  they  avert  syncope.  To  assist  the 
action  of  mustard,  we  often  cover  the  application  with  hot 
blankets,  and  then  with  dry  ones.  Stimulating  liniments 
are  sometimes  preferred.     One  volume  of  oil  of  mustard 


670  GENERAL   THERAPEUTIC   MEASURES 

may  be  combined  with  fifteen  volilmes  of  oil  of  turpentine ; 
or  ammonia  water,  thirty  parts,  and  oil  of  turpentine,  fifteen 
parts,  are  added  to  spirit  of  camphor  and  soap  liniment,  each 
fifty  parts. 

Turpentine  is  more  valuable  in  abdominal  disorders  in 
horses.  It  is  sprinkled  on  hot  blankets,  and  applied  as  a 
stupe  to  stop  pain,  spasm,  and  stimulate  normal  peristalsis 
in  colic ;  and  to  relieve  pain  and  congestion  in  enteritis, 
peritonitis,  diarrhoea  and  other  difficulties.  The  beneficial 
result  accruing  from  the  use  of  external  counter-irritants 
in  bowel  troubles  is  often  facilitated  by  the  injection  of  hot 
(115°  F.)  rectal  enemata. 

Stimulating  liniments  are  serviceable  in  aiding  resolu- 
tion of  swelling  following  the  acute  stage  of  cellulitis,  lym- 
phangitis, neuritis,  mammitis,  rheumatism,  strains  and 
bruises.  They  are  often  employed  in  laryngitis.  In  chronic 
skin  diseases,  as  eczema,  mild  counter-irritants  (tar,  oil  of 
cade,  Peruvian  balsam,  etc.)  substitute  an  active  reparative 
process,  tend  to  aid  absorption  of  exudation  and  induration, 
and  relieve  pain  and  itching.  The  tincture  of  iodine  may 
abort  incipient  inflammatory  lesions,  as  boils  and  abscess, 
by  means  of  its  counter-irritant  and  antiseptic  properties. 

VESICANTS   AND   THE  ACTUAL   CAUTERY 

Cantharides,  red  iodide  of  mercury,  and  croton  oil,  are 
more  commonly  used  in  veterinary  medicine  to  cause  blis- 
tering. Eeference  will  be  had,  hereafter,  to  cantharidal 
blisters.  Blisters  and  the  cautery  are  especially  indicated 
to  cause  resolution  of  inflammatory  products  and  modifica- 
tion of  inflammatory  processes;  to  secure  fixation  and  rest 
of  parts,  and  to  relieve  pain.  It  is  impossible  to  enumerate 
all  the  conditions  in  which  they  are  useful.  In  the  treat- 
ment of  severe  sprains,  as  curb  and  "breakdown;"  and  in 
exostoses,  as  ringbone  and  spavin,  the  actual  cautery  (firing) 
is  used  before  and  in  conjunction  with  blistering  to  exagger- 
ate the  counter-irritant  effect.  Absorption  is  attained  in  the 
foregoing  conditions  by  the  production  of  an  acute  inflam- 


COUNTER-IRRITANTS  671 

mation,  with  increase  of  vascularity,  tissue  change  and  fatty 
degeneration.  lu  "  breakdown,"  the  formation  of  scar  tissue 
is  thouglit  (Y/ithont  reason)  to  assist  in  supporting  the  limb. 
Sometimes,  on  the  other  hand,  osseous  deposit  is  unabsorbed, 
but  anchylosis  and  freedom  from  pain  in  a  diseased  joint  is 
secured  by  the  enforced  maintenance  of  rest  and  fixation  of 
the  joint,  together  with  the  production  of  new  bone. 

In  exudative  diseases  of  serous  membranes,  as  pleuritis, 
pericarditis,  peritonitis,  meningitis,  arthritis,  and  synovitis, 
blisters  facilitate  absorption  and  recovery  after  the  acute 
stage  is  over.  This  favoi-aVjle  result  is  not  due  to  loss  of 
serum,  but  to  modification  of  the  inflammatory  process.  In 
the  first  three  diseases  named  above,  blisters — flying  blist- 
ers— may  be  applied  in  spots  every  few  days  in  different 
places  over  the  afft-cted  area. 

Blisters  reflexly  stimulate  the  nerve  centres  in  menin- 
gitis, in  addition  to  their  action  on  the  inflammatory  lesion. 
They  should  be  applied  over  the  poll  or  spine  according 
to  the  location  of  the  trouble.  Absorption  in  chronically 
enlarged  glands  is  assisted  by  blisters.  They  also  hasten 
"ripening"  of  suppurating  glands  or  abscess  when  this 
process  is  slow,  and  hasten  their  resolution  after  evacua- 
tion of  pus.  The  blister  should  be  rubbed  on  about  the 
inflamed  area  in  these  lesions. 

Vesicants  are  also  valuable  in  pharyngitis  and  laryngitis 
for  severe  cases,  when  stimulating  liniments  are  ineffectual ; 
and,  in  lessening  pain,  exudation  and  swelling  af  the  throat, 
may  avert  the  necessity  of  tracheotomy.  A  blister  applied 
about  the  coronet  in  diseases  of  the  feet  is  serviceable  in 
stimulating  the  growth  of  the  hoof  and  promotes  repair  in 
navicular  disease,  laminitis,  and  cartilaginous  quittor,  after 
the  acute  stage  is  passed.  In  arthritis  and  synovitis,  the 
whole  diseased  area,  with  the  exception  of  the  flexure  of  the 
joint,  is  covered  with  a  blister.  Since  it  is  often  impossible 
to  immobilize  a  part,  in  veterinary  practice,  by  splints, 
blisters  are  sometimes  employed  for  this  end  after  reduction 
of  dislocations.  . 


672  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

The  hair  should  be  clipped  from  an  area  to  be  blis- 
tered, the  skin  washed  with  soap  and  water,  and  the  animal 
tied  up  or  restrained  in  some  way  from  biting  the  part.  It 
is  the  custom  to  cover  immediately  the  surrounding  parts 
with  grease,  but  protection  from  the  acrid  discharge  can  be 
secured  more  effectively  by  frequent  sponging  with  soap 
suds  and  water ;  or  painting  the  skin,  under  the  blistered 
surface,  with  a  solution  of  resin  in  alcohol.  Grease  is  not 
so  good  a  protective,  since  it  is  a  solvent  for  cantharides. 
Vaseline  should  be  applied  following  the  active  stage. 

Caustics  or  Escharotics  are  agents  which  destroy  tissue. 
They  comprise  such  substances  as  the  caustic  alkalies,  min- 
eral acids,  silver  nitrate ;  iron,  zinc  and  copper  sulphates ; 
ferric,  zinc  and  mercuric  chlorides ;  carbolic  acid,  arsenic, 
together  with  the  actual  cautery.  They  are  indicated  in  the 
treatment  of  exuberant  granulations,  morbid  growths,  septic, 
sloughing  and  necrotic  parts,  pyogenic  membranes,  fistulous 
tracts,  and  for  the  destruction  of  poisons,  as  in  rabid  dog  and 
snake  bite.  Escharotics  stimulate  and  modify  nutrition  in 
unhealthy  wounds  and  ulcers.  Many  form  chemical  com- 
pounds with  the  tissue  elements.  Heat  oxidizes  animal 
tissues,  and  also  coagulates  albumin  and  abstracts  water 
from  them. 

The  alkalies  produce  greasy  compounds  with  the  pro- 
teids,  sapouify  the  fats  and  withdraw  water  from  the  tissues. 
They  are  the  most  widely  destructive  agents.  Silver  nitrate 
forms  an  insoluble  albuminate  with  the  tissues  to  which  it  is 
applied,  and  protects  the  underlying  structures  from  further 
action.  It  is  most  superficial  in  its  action,  but  possesses 
specific  properties  in  altering  the  condition  of  unhealthy 
wounds  for  the  better.  Extreme  heat,  exemplified  by  the 
white-hot  iron,  acts  as  a  counter-irritant  in  stimulating 
reflexly  the  nervous  system  ;  in  increasing  the  vascularity  of 
surroundiug  parts,  and  in  favoring  revulsion  of  blood ;  in 
aiding  absorption  and  resolution,  and  in  relieving  pain  apart 
from  its  direct  destructive  effect.  Caustics  may  be  applied 
in  either  the*  solid  or  liquid  state,  and  in  various  forms,  as 


COLD   AND   HEAT  673 

the  stick,  powder,  paste  and  ointment.  Caustics  are  some- 
times employed  to  stop  haemorrhage.  (See  Styptics,  p.  63). 
The  reader  is  referred  to  the  articles  on  special  agents  for 
further  details). 

Suppurants. — Any  of  the  more  active  counter-irritants, 
as  croton  oil,  may  induce  suppuration.  Under  this  head 
may  be  mentioned  setons  and  issues  of  rowel.  A  seton  is  a 
piece  of  tape  or  other  material,  introduced  through  an  in- 
cision in  the  skin,  and  thence  under  the  skin  in  the  connective 
tissue,  and  finally  out  through  the  skin  at  a  short  distance 
from  the  point  of  entrance.  The  loose  ends  are  then  knotted 
together,  and  the  whole  loop  is  drawn  through  the  wound 
once  daily  to  keep  up  constant  irritation  and  suppuration. 
An  issue  of  rowel  is  a  piece  of  gauze  or  tow,  which  is  passed 
into  an  incision,  where  the  substance  remains,  and  causes 
continual  irritation  and  suppuration.  To  intensify  their 
irritant  action,  both  setons  and  issues  of  rowel  may  be  first 
saturated  with  cantharides  ointment  or  oil  of  turpentine. 
They  have  been  employed  in  acute  diseases  of  the  eye,  men- 
ingitis, "  strangles,"  and  in  joint  and  shoulder  lameness,  near 
the  seat  of  trouble.  Setons  and  issues  of  rowel  are  barbar- 
ous and  dirty,  and  fortunately  are  becoming  obsolete. 

Cold  and  Heat. 

Cold. — Cold  and  heat  are  only  relative  terms.  As  used 
here,  they  refer,  respectively,  to  a  thermal  intensity  below 
or  above  that  of  the  body.  Cold  is  usually  applied  by 
means  of  water  in  some  form.  In  veterinary  practice  we 
are  limited  in  the  employment  of  cold  air,  as  a  medium,  to 
the  use  of  free  ventilation  and  protection  of  animals  from  the 
solar  heat.  Cool  air  is  especially  desirable  in  the  treatment 
of  most  febrile  affections  by  lowering  temperature  and  serv- 
ing as  a  stimulus  to  the  respiratory,  circulatory  and  nervous, 
functions  generally.  Locally,  cold  causes  contraction  of  the 
peripheral  vessels  and  muscles  of  the  skin,  forcing  out  fluids 
from  the  part  and  reducing  local  temperature.    This  is  more 


674  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

distinctly  noticeable  in  congested  areas.  If  the  application 
is  very  severe  or  long  continued,  the  vessels  lose  their  tone, 
become  paralyzed,  and  we  have  passive  congestion,  inflam- 
mation, and  finally  death. 

Ordinarily,  reaction  sets  in  after  the  use  of  cold,  more 
particularly  if  followed  by  heat,  when  an  active  hyperaemia 
is  substituted  for  the  ischsemia.  This  is  brought  about  both 
by  reflex  stimulation  of  the  heart  by  the  cold,  and  local  dila- 
tion of  the  vessels.  Therefore,  when  we  wish  to  constringe 
parts,  we  use  moderate  cold  continuously ;  but,  by  alternat- 
ing cold  and  heat  we  may  accelerate  the  blood  supply,  and 
by  first  forcing  out,  and  then  biinging  back  the  fluids  of  the 
tissues,  we  can  maintain  such  an  activity  of  the  circulation 
that  even  solid  exudations  are  absorbed.  Cold,  locally, 
lessens  nervous  irritability  and  pain  directly,  and,  also,  by 
contracting  the  afferent  vessels,  it  diminishes  the  impact  of 
the  blood  on  sensitive  parts.  Moderate  heat  is  said,  never- 
theless, to  produce  much  the  same  result  by  relaxing  the 
capillaries  of  the  collateral  circulation,  thus  draining  off  the 
blood  and  relieving  tension  in  the  inflamed  part.  Tissue 
change  is  diminished,  locally,  by  the  action  of  cold.  Sup- 
puration and  sloughing  proceed  but  slowly  under  its  retard- 
ing influence.  Acute  abscess  is  converted  into  what  might 
be  logically  termed  a  "cold  abscess"  in  the  most  literal 
sense  of  the  word.  Remotely,  moderate  cold  applied  to  the 
hodj  for  a  short  period  actually  increases  general  tempera- 
ture by  stimulating  reflexly  the  heat  centres,  increasing 
oxidation  and  lessening  radiation  from  the  contracted  super- 
ficial vessels.  If  cold  is  in  contact  with  the  whole  body  for 
a  longer  time,  the  temperature  gradually  sinks  and  the 
reduction  continues  for  some  hours,  when,  in  healthy  ani- 
mals, the  temperature  rises  above  normal.  Such  effects  are 
much  more  pronounced  in  pyrexia.  The  action  upon  the 
nervous  system  is  exceedingly  important  therapeutically. 
The  most  powerful  stimulating  action  is  exerted  upon  the 
centres  of  innervation  controlling  the  circulatory,  respira- 
tory, digestive  and  excretory  organs.    In  fever,  this  treatment 


COLD  AND  HEAT  675 

invigorates  the  failing  digestive  functions,  relieves  the  nerv- 
ous irritability  by  cooling  the  blood  going  to  the  great  nerve 
centres  in  the  medulla,  and  strengthens  and  stimulates  the 
entire  nervous  organization.  Cold  applications  and  drinks 
stimulate  the  circulation  reflexly,  increase  blood  tension,  and, 
therefore,  the  secretion  of  urine  in  fever,  which  is  very  im- 
portant for  the  elimination  of  toxins.  Heat  and  cold  are 
often  used  interchangeably  in  medicine.  In  human  practice 
it  is  a,  rule  to  be  guided  in  the  choice  of  one  or  the  other  by 
the  desire  of  and  effect  upon  the  patient,  and  this  should 
apply,  as  far  as  possible,  in  veterinary  practice.  Cold  is 
employed,  locally,  in  congestions  of  superficial  parts,  and 
tends  to  abort  inflammation  and  relieve  pain. 

In  meningitis,  rubber  ice  bags  or  continual  irrigation  of 
the  head  and  spine  are  used.  Laryngitis  may  be  success- 
fully treated  by  ice  poultices  (cracked  ice  and  sawdust  in 
linen  bags)  or  by  thin  rubber  ice  bags  surrounding  the 
throat.  In  the  same  way  are  treated  sprained  tendons, 
capped  hocks,  broken  knees,  recent- curbs,  and  lymphangitis. 
In  fact,  most  superficial  inflammatory  surgical  affections  are 
benefited  by  cold  applications.  Ice  and  ice  water  are  useful 
in  checking  venous  or  capillary  haemorrhage,  although  hot 
water  is  often  more  serviceable.  Cold  water  enemata  are 
valuable  in  atonic  constipation,  diarrhoea,  and  to  reduce 
temperature  in  fever.  In  the  uterus,  ice  in  small  lumps 
will  arrest  metrorrhagia,  and,  in  the  rectum,  aid  in  reducing 
prolapse.  Ice  bags,  placed  along  the  spine  over  the  sym- 
pathetic ganglia,  will  cause  dilatation  of  arterioles  in  regions 
corresponding  to  the  point  of  application. 

MODES   OF  EMPLOYING   COLD  WATER.^ 

Ablution  is  the  simplest  method  of  applying  water  to  the 
surface  of  the  body.  It  is  merely  bathing.  Water  at  the 
temperature  of  50°  to  60°  F.  is  applied  by  a  rough,  coarse 


*  The  writer  is  much  indebted  to  the  writings  of  Simon  Baruch  in 
connection  with  uses  of  water. 


676  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC   MEASUiiES 

cloth.  The  water  is  thrown  on  in  considerable  quantities, 
beginning  with  the  head  and  going  rapidly  over  the  neck, 
trunk  and  limbs  successively,  rubbing  the  skin  briskly  all 
the  while  with  the  cloth.  Two  attendants  are  required  for 
tlie  application  of  an  ablution  to  the  larger  animals.  The 
patient  is  finally  dried  and  warmly  blanketed.  The  process 
may  be  repeated  each  half  hour  in  fever,  or  twice  daily  as  a 
tonic  measure  in  chronic  diseases.  The  rationale  consists  in 
the  stimulus  afforded  by  the  cold  to  the  nervous  system, 
accompanied  by  contractions  and  subsequent  dilatation  of 
the  peripheral  blood  vessels,  with  consequent  cooling  of  the 
blood  and  increased  radiation  of  heat  from  the  surface.  In 
most  hydriatic  methods  for  reducing  temperature  in  fever, 
friction  of  the  skin  should  be  the  sine  qua  non^  as  otherwise 
the  physical  cooling  of  the  body  is  confined  entirely  to  the 
periphery,  the  contraction  of  the  surface  vessels  driving  the 
blood  inward  to  the  vital  organs.  The  superficial  muscles 
then  act  as  non-conductors,  and  heat  production  being  stimu- 
lated reflexly  by  the  cold,  an  actual  increase  of  internal 
temperature  may  obtain. 

It  is  only  by  securing  dilatation  of  the  superficial  ves- 
sels by  friction  that  the  result  first  described  can  be 
prevented,  for  after  the  first  shock  the  peripheral  vessels 
dilate,  an  increased  supply  of  blood  is  brought  to  the  sur- 
face, is  rapidly  cooled  and  courses  inward,  only  to  be  replaced 
by  more  over-heated  blood.  The  internal  temperature  is 
thus  lowered,  and  instead  of  an  internal  congestion  being 
brought  about,  as  may  happen  when  the  skin  is  simply 
exposed  to  cold,  we  have  a  constant  withdrawal  of  heated 
blood  from  the  interior.  In  this  perpetual  interchange  not 
only  does  cooling  of  the  blood  aud  body  occur,  but  the  cir- 
culation is  equalized  and  congestions  are  overcome. 

Tlie  Sheet  Bath. — Whole  baths  are  impracticable  for  our 
larger  patients,  and  the  sheet  bath  may  be  substituted  to 
advantage  for  antipyretic  and  other  purposes  to  which  the 
cold  bath  is  adapted.  A  cloth  soaked  in  cold  water,  or  ice 
poultice,  is  placed  on  the  poll  to  prevent  determination  of 


COLD   AND   HEAT  677 

blood  to  the  head,  and  a  linen  sheet,  wet  in  water,  of  from 
50°  to  80°  F.,  is  placed  over  the  animal,  the  surface  beinj^ 
rubbed,  while  dashing  on  the  sheet  water  at  the  temperature 
of  50°  to  60°  F.  This  process  is  continued  for  fifteen  or 
twenty  minutes,  unless  rigor  is  induced.  The  method  is 
valuable  in  the  treatment  of  fever  and  insolation.  The  gen- 
eral rationale  is  the  same  as  in  the  case  of  ablutions,  but  the 
antipyretic  effect  is  more  marked  and  permanent.  The  sheet 
may  be  covered,  while  wet,  by  blankets,  and  converted  into 
a  wet  pack. 

The  Wet  Pack  is  applicable  for  general  or  local  use,  and 
for  various  purposes.  A  linen  sheet  is  dipped  in  water  at  a 
temperature  of  50°  to  70°  F.,  and  wrung  out  very  thoroughly. 
A  cold  application  is  put  on  the  head  and  the  sheet  applied 
and  covered  with  dry  woolen  blankets.  The  duration  of 
application  is  from  one  quarter  to  three  hours,  according  to 
the  object  in  view.  If  it  is  used  as  a  strictly  antipyretic 
measure,  it  should  be  changed  frequently.  The  wet  pack 
differs  materially  from  other  hydriatic  procedures  in  that 
reaction  occurs  slowly,  for  there  is  no  artificial  stimulus  in 
the  shape  of  friction  to  accelerate  it.  The  primary  contrac- 
tion of  the  vessels  is  succeeded  by  partial  dilatation  of  them, 
when  the  blood  from  the  interior  of  the  over-heated  body  is 
cooled  on  the  surface  by  contact  with  the  sheet  and  by 
vaporization  of  the  water.  Vascular  contraction  again  occurs 
owing  to  the  cooling,  forcing  the  chilled  blood  inward.  So 
there  is  continual  interchange  of  cooled  and  heated  blood, 
until  the  sheet  has  become  thoroughly  warmed.  After  the 
wet  pack  is  removed,  the  skin  should  be  dried  and  the 
patient  well  blanketed. 

The  interchange  of  tlood  is  useful  in  relieving  conges- 
tion of  the  internal  organs,  in  aiding  nutrition  by  bringing 
to  the  periphery  nutriment  absorbed  from  the  gastro-intes- 
tinal  tract,  and  for  its  tonic  effect  on  the  nervous  system.  In 
fever,  it  abates  cerebral  hyperaemia,  delirium  and  excite- 
ment, and  promotes  rest  and  quiet. 

The  Priessmfz  Poultice  is  similar  to  the  wet  pack,  but  a 


678  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

waterproof  protective  is  interposed  between  the  wet  sheet, 
spoijgos  or  cloths  on  the  inside  and  the  outside  woolen  cov- 
erings. Evaporation  is  thus  prevented,  but  not  vaporization. 
Such  an  application  may  be  used  with  safety  in  febrile  dis- 
eases, as  pleuiitis  and  piKHimonia.  If  it  is  not  renewed 
frequently,  hyperaeinia  of  the  surface  occurs,  and  this  may 
be  beneficial  in  aborting  or  relieving  internal  congestion.  It 
then  acts  as  an  ordinary  poultice,  and  is  of  value  in  various 
local  inflanitnations  resulting  from  strains,  blows  and  bruises; 
also,  in  laryngitis.  Besides  relieving  internal  congestion, 
the  Priessnitz  poultice  stimulates  absorption,  removes  in- 
duration and  hastens  suppuration,  locally.  The  wet  .pack 
and  Priessnitz  poultice  are  more  appropriate  for  practical 
use  than  the  other  methods  in  veterinary  practice,  since  the 
evaporation  from  the  hair  of  animals  contraindicates  methods 
suitable  in  human  medicine. 

Cold  Batlis  are  only  practicable  for  the  smaller  animals. 
Dogs  may  be  immersed  in  water  at  90°  P.,  which  is  rapidly 
cooled  down  to  60°.  The  bath  should  last  about  fifteen 
minutes,  the  surface  of  the  body  being  rubbed  constantly. 
Ice  water  should  be  frequently  poured  over  the  head.  After 
removal  from  the  water,  the  patient  must  be  thoroughly 
dried,  wrapped  in  warm  blankets,  and  a  stimulant  given  if 
necessary.  Such  treatment  may  be  used  as  an  antipyretic 
measure  if  the  temperature  is  over  103°  P.  in  the  rectum. 

Dovxihes. — A  douche  is  a  forcible  impact  of  water  against 
the  surface  of  the  body.  It  is  not  used  for  its  antipyretic 
effect,  but  acts  as  a  stimulant  to  the  nervous  system  at  large, 
whereby  the  respiratory  action  is  deepened  and  strength- 
ened, and  the  circulation  invigorated.  The  douche  is  given 
advantageously  in  the  treatment  of  coma,  of  alcohol,  chloro- 
form, ether  or  opium,  applied  to  the  head.  The  water  may 
be  dashed  from  a  pail  or  applied  by  means  of  a  garden  hose 
or  from  a  tap.  Rheumatic  lameness  and  peripheral  para- 
lysis are  suitable  cases  for  the  douche  treatment,  followed 
by  vigorous  rubbing  and  dry  bandaging.  Syncope  may  often 
be  quickly  relieved  by  douching  of  the  head  and  chest. 


I 


COLD  AND  HEAT  679 

Local  Baths  are  good,  especially  in  inflammatory  condi- 
tions of  the  feet  in  horses.  Tubs  may  be  employed  for  the 
animals  to  stand  in,  the  water  being  changed  frequently  or 
being  kept  cool  by  ice.  It  is  not  advisable  to  allow  animals 
to  stand  in  large  bodies  of  water  on  account  of  the  danger 
they  incur  of  "  catching  cold  "  from  surface  evaporation. 

h^rigation  with  cold  water  is  done  in  inflammatory  dis- 
eases of  the  joints,  tendons  and  feet.  Running  water  may 
be  permitted  to  flow  continuously  through  perforated  rubber 
tabes,  connected  with  a  tap,  or  used  as  siphons  and  closed 
at  their  distal  extremities.  The  holes  may  be  made  in  the 
tube  with  red-hot  needles.  The  rubber  tubes  should  be 
wound  nbout  the  limb  or  part  and  held  in  position  by  band- 
ages. Leiter's  expensive  block  tin  tubes  are  easily  bent  and 
rendered  useless  by  the  movements  of  our  patients. 

Cold  Drinks  are  both  refreshing  and  antipyretic  in  action. 
Cool  water  should  be  placed  where  the  patient  can  take  it 
as  he  desires.  In  stomatitis,  tetanus  and  angina,  cool  water 
is  distinctly  grateful  and  comforting.  In  the  latter  two  dis- 
eases, it  should  be  arranged  so  that  the  animal  can  reach  it 
without  bending  the  neck.  The  mouth  can  be  rinsed  out 
continually,  removing  decomposing  food  and  mucus,  the 
thirst  be  slaked  and  heat  and  inflammation  relieved. 

Cold  Enemata  are  valuable  antipyretic  agencies.  From 
five  to  fifteen  quarts  of  cold  water  may  be  thrown  up  through 
a  flexible  rubber  tube,  six  feet  long,  far  into  the  bowel  of 
the  horse. 

Evaporating  Solutions. — Methylene  bichloride  or  ether 
spray  may  be  applied  for  a  short  time  by  means  of  an 
atomizer,  to  induce  local  anaesthesia  of  a  part,  through  the 
powerful  refrigeration  produced  in  their  evaporation,  and  is 
most  satisfactorily  employed  in  conjunction  with  cocaine 
injections.  One  turn  of  a  cotton  or  linen  bandage,  or  a 
single  thickness  of  similar  stuff,  put  about  a  part  and  wet 
continuously  with  cold  water,  forms  a  good  evaporating 
medium  in  allaying  superficial  inflammation  and  pain.  A 
mixture  of  clay,  and  equal  parts  of  water,  vinegar  and  diluted 


680  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

solution  of  lead  acetate,  make  a  cheap  and  efficient  cooling 
application  for  external  use  in  the  treatment  of  bruises  and 
sprains.  The  paste  should  be  removed  as  quickly  as  it 
dries. 

Refrigerants. — Certain  medicines  either  produce  a  sub- 
jective feeling  of  coolness  or  actually  cause  it,  applied  exter- 
nally and  given  internally.  The  subjective  sensation  is  due 
to  some  inexplicable  action  on  the  local  nerve  supply.  Some 
are  stimulants  and  astringents,  and  diminish  the  circulation 
in  the  part.  Externally,  acetate  of  lead,  chloride  of  am- 
monium, nitrate  of  potash,  and  vinegar,  are  used  most 
frequently  as  refrigerants. 

The  mineral  acids  and  salts  of  potassium  knd  sodium, 
especially  potassium  nitrate,  are  administered  more  com- 
monly, internally,  both  for  their  cooling  effect  and  to  allay 
thirst. 

HEAT. 

Water  at  a  moderate  degree  of  heat — what  is  termed 
lukewarm — L  e.,  86°  to  95°  F.,  applied  to  the  body,  stimu- 
lates the  action  of  the  skin,  relaxes  peripheral  vessels  and 
diminishes  nervous  excitability,  pain  and  spasm  in  neigh- 
boring parts.  Water  at  a  temperature  of  112°  to  120°  F. 
contracts  blood  vessels  of  underlying  parts,  relieving  con- 
gestion and  pain.  Such  a  degree  of  heat  resembles  cold  in 
its  effect,  and  they  may  often  be  used  interchangeably.  Still 
stronger  heat  has  much  the  same  effect  as  excessive  cold, 
only  acting  more  quickly,  causing  dilatation  of  the  vessels, 
pain,  inflammation  and  destruction  of  tissue.  The  action  of 
powerful  heat  on  the  whole  body,  or  upon  single  organs,  is 
similar  to  that  of  counter-irritants.  Mild,  moist  heat  is 
beneficial  in  the  treatment  of  wounds  in  poorly  vascular 
parts  where  there  is  a  tendency  to  indolent  granulation,  as 
about  the  feet  in  horses.  Again,  in  low  grades  of  inflamma- 
tion with  induration,  as  in  strains  of  tendons,  where  mod- 
erate heat  tends  to  stimulate  the  circulation  and  hasten 
absorption.     In  the  treatment  of  abscess  and  burns,  with 


COLD  AND  HEAT  681 

destruction  of  tissue  and  suppuration,  moist  heat  applied 
locally  macerates  the  dead  tissue,  hastens  sloughing  and 
relieves  pain,  and  in  softening  parts  prevents  the  burrow- 
ing of  pus  and  the  formation  of  deep-seated  pockets  and 
sinus's. 

A  modern  view  of  poulticing  is  that  it  aids  the  migra- 
tion of  leucocytes,  and  therefore  is  productive  of  good  in 
assisting  their  phagocytic  action.  The  abscess  can  thus  be 
more  speedily  formed  and  more  quickly  defined.  Herein 
heat  differs  from  cold.  In  irritable  and  spasmodic  troubles 
of  muscular  origin  in  various  organs,  heat  is  distinctly  reme- 
dial, as  in  pelvic  and  abdominal  pain  and  colic,  when 
employed  in  the  form  of  rectal  injections.  Heat  may,  in 
many  conditions,  be  used  interchangeably  with,  or  in  the 
place  of,  cold,  according  to  the  preference  of  the  practitioner, 
or  the  effect  upon  the  patient.  As,  for  instance,  in  the  case 
of  pneumonia,  pleuritis,  angina,  and  in  checking  haemorr- 
hage. Heat  may  be  utilized  in  simply  preventing  the  natural 
radiation  of  it  from  the  body.  Thus,  simple,  warm,  dry 
blankets,  applied  all  over  the  surface  of  the  body,  may  abort 
catarrhal  or  rheumatic  conditions  by  merely  causing  reten- 
tion of  the  body  heat,  dilatation  of  the  peripheral  vessels 
and  equalization  of  the  circulation.  Covering  a  portion  of- 
the  skin  with  such  dense  preparations  as  tar,  pitch  or  collo- 
dion, in  mild  superficial  inflammatory  lesions,  is  said  to 
produfie  favorable  results  by  restraining  radiation  and  in- 
creasing heat  and  blood  supply  in  the  part.  Even  thickened 
tendons  and  indurated  glands  may  be  benefited  thereby.- 
The  Priessnitz  poultice  continuously  applied  has  a  similar 
action.  In  vasomotor  paralysis,  seen  in  collapse,  following 
loss  of  blood  or  poisoning,  and  in  shock  due  to  traumatism 
or  surgical  operation,  heat  is  eminently  a  life-saving  means. 
In  such  conditions  the  loss  of  vascular  tone  and  dilatation  of 
the  vessels  leads  to  dangerous,  and  even  fatal,  cooling  of  the 
body.  Heated  dry  blankets,  or  those  wrung  out  in  hot 
water,  should  be  applied  to  the  larger  animals,  together  with 
hot  rectal  injections;  while   the  smaller   animals  may  be 


882  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

placed  ill  baths  at  the  temperature  of  105°  F.,  till  the  tem- 
perature becomes  normal.  Such  treatment  should  be  com- 
bined with  the  use  of  vascular  and  cardiac  stimulants, 
atropine,  dipjitalis  and  strychnine,  and  saline  infusions. 

MODES   OF  APPLYING   HEAT. 

Poultices  or  Cataplasms. — Cataplasms  are  compositions 
for  the  local  application  of  heat  and  moisture.  They  are 
made,  commonly,  of  flaxseed  meal,  bran,  oatmeal,  bread, 
potatoes  and  carrots.  One  or  other  of  these  is  stirred  up  in 
boiling  water  until  a  thick,  pasty  consistency  is  reached. 
This  mass  may  then  be  applied,  while  very  hot,  directly  to 
the  part  when  we  wish  to  produce  a  softening  of  the  tissues^ 
as  in  abscess  or  tender  feet  in  horses,  and  the  whole  is 
covered  by  a  cloth.  In  poulticing  horses*  feet,  the  material — 
usually  brail  and  flaxseed  meal,  equal  parts — is  mixed  in  a 
pail,  with  boiling  water,  and  spread  on  a  piece  of  bagging 
(double  thickness,  and  about  two  feet  square),  in  sufficient 
quantity  to  surround  and  cover  the  entire  foot.  The  bag- 
ging is  then  folded  and  tied  about  the  pasterns,  and  over 
around  the  front  and  sole  of  the  foot.  The  whole  should 
occasionally  be  immersed  in  water  to  prevent  drying  of  the 
poultice.  When  a  poultice  is  used  merely  for  its  continued 
heat,  in  relieving  heat  and  congestion,  the  material  should 
be  enclosed  in  a  flannel  bag,  in  order  the  longer  to  retain 
and  radiate  its  warmth. 

A  very  hot  poultice  acts  as  a  counter-irritant  in  con- 
tracting blood  vessels  in  more  remote  parts,  besides  its  effect 
in  abating  pain.  A  warm,  moist  poultice  causes  a  mild  local 
hyperaemia,  softens  broken  down  and  dead  tissues,  and  aids 
suppuration  and  sloughing.  Poultices  are  not  employed 
very  much,  except  in  the  treatment  of  horses'  feet,  as  they 
are  clumsy,  laborious  contrivances,  and  difficult  to  keep  in 
place.  If  long-continued,  they  cause  tissues  to  become 
swollen,  sodden  and  macerated,  destroying  their  vitality. 
Antiseptic  poultices  are  made  by  soaking  sheet  cotton,  gauze, 
or  other  absorbent  material,  in  hot  antiseptic  solutions,  as 


COLD   AND   HEAT  683 

corrosive  sublimate,  1-1000;  creolin  or  sulpho-naphtol, 
1-100.  The  material  is  very  lightly  wrung  out,  wrapped 
about  with  dry  gauze,  covered  with  oil  paper,  silk  or  rubber 
protective,  and  applied  to  the  part  with  a  bandage.  Anti- 
septic poultice^  are  useful  in  the  treatment  of  septic  injuries, 
and  when  ther^  is  much  pain,  destruction  of  tissue,  slough- 
ing and  suppuration.  Otherwise,  poultices  are  decidedly 
contraindicated  in  the  case  of  wounds,  as  dry  antiseptic  or 
aseptic  absorbent  dressings'  are  far  preferable  in  securing 
one  of  the  cardinal  requirements  in  the  process  of  healing, 
i.e. J  dryness.  As  substitutes  for  ordinary  poultices,  we  have 
spongio-pilene,  counter-irritants,  stupes  and  fomentations. 
Spongio-pilene  occurs  in  sheets,  about  an  inch  in  thickness, 
made  of  a  mixture  of  sponge  and  felt,  backed  with  a  flexible 
covering  of  gutta-percha.  Its  main  objection  is  the  expense. 
It  forms,  when  soaked  in  water,  a  cleanly  and  easily  applied 
poultice  for  non-suppurating  parts. 

Counier-irritation,  as  has  been  pointed  out,  is  produced 
by  hot  poulticing  as  well  as  by  drugs.  A  combination  of  the 
two  is  obtained  in  stupes. 

StupeSy  Stupa. — A  stupe  consists  of  a  flannel  or  other 
cloth,  wrung  out  in  plain  or  medicated  hot  water,  and  ap- 
plied to  the  skin.  These  are  often  covered  by  waterproof 
protection,  the  better  to  retain  heat.  In  the  veterinary  art, 
hot  blankets  are  often  applied  over  the  whole  chest  or  abdo-. 
men  to  relieve  internal  congestion  and  pain  in  pleuritis, 
pneumonia  and  colic.  Turpentine  stupes  are  more  in  favor 
with  abdominal  troubles.  These  are  made  by  simply  sprink- 
ling oil  of  turpentine  over  the  hot  blankets,  or  by  saturating 
flannel  cloths  in  turpentine  and  wringing  them  out  in  very 
hot  water.  To  get  a  very  active  counter-irritant  effect,  a 
mustard  paste  may  be  rubbed  over  the  chest,  and  then  hot 
blankets  applied. 

Hot  Water  Bags,  made  of  rubber,  and  enclosing  water  at 
a  temperature  of  120°  F.,  may  be  placed  along  the  spine,  and 
by  stimulating  the  cord  and  sympathetic  ganglia,  cause  sti- 
mulation of  the  vaso-constrictors  in  regions  corresponding  to 


684  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

the  controlliug  areas  over  which  the  heat  is  applied.  In  this 
manner  inflammatory  conditions  of  the  throat,  chest,  and 
abdomen  are  said  to  have  been  aborted,  and  internal  haemor- 
rhage effectually  arrested.  Conversely,  cold  may  be  used 
over  the  spine  to  dilate  distal  arterioles. 

Fomentations  are  simply  local  baths.  As  technically 
employed,  the  word  refers  to  bathing  parts  with  plain  or 
medicated  hot  water,  by  means  of  sponge  or  cloths.  They 
may  be  used  to  cleanse  wounds  or  parts  of  dried  discharges ; 
they  act  as  counter-irritants  if  very  hot,  or  as  mild,  stimulat- 
ing, soothing  and  softening  applications  if  warm.  In  order 
to  produce  much  effect,  besides  a  mere  detergent  one,  they 
should  be  applied  for  a  considerable  length  of  time — one 
half  hour  at  least — and  be  followed  by  drying  and  bandag- 
ing. Fomentations  reduce  swelling  and  pain,  and  hasten 
repair  in  bruises,  strains  and  local  infljimmatory  lesions. 

Injections  of  hot  water  are  employed  to  cleanse  wounds, 
stop  bleeding  and  relieve  pain  and  spasm.  Injections  may 
be  thrown  into  the  rectum  or  vagina  at  a  temperature  of 
115°  to  120°  F.  In  the  vagina,  hot  water  may  stop  post 
partum  haemorrhage,  pain  and  congestion  in  the  pelvis,  by 
producing  uterine  contractions,  and  atonic  constriction  of 
vessels  in  neighboring  parts,  which  lasts  for  several  hours 
following  its  use.  Hot  rectal  injections  (115°  F.)  subdue 
-abdominal  and  pelvic  pain  or  spasm,  as  intestinal  or  renal 
colic  and  spasm  of  the  neck  of  the  bladder.  The  heat  per  se 
in  such  injections  may  be  invaluable  in  shock  and  collapse 
as  noted  above. 

The  water  may  either  be  led  off  through  a  rubber  tube, 
from  a  stop-cock  in  a  pail  or  reservoir,  placed  a  few  feet 
above  the  patient,  or  else  siphonage  may  be  done  off-hand 
through  a  bit  of  small-sized  hose.  Having  hung  a  pail  filled 
with  water  three  or  four  feet  above  the  patient,  the  hose  is 
filled  with  water,  and,  closing  the  ends  to  keep  it  full,  the 
upper  part  is  put  in  the  pail,  while  the  lower,  smooth  and 
greased,  is  passed  into  the  rectum  or  vagina ;  or  water  may 
be  poured  through  a  large  tin  funnel  into  the  upper  end  of 


COLD   A^'D   HEAT  685 

the  tube.  The  ordinary  fountain  syringe  is  the  best  appa- 
ratus for  smaller  animals. 

Dry  Heat  may  be  applied  by  means  of  hot  blankets,  hot 
water  bags,  hot  salt  or  sand  in  cloth  bags,  a  flatiron  or  hot, 
wet  cloths  between  waterproof  coverings.  Dry  heat  is  often 
preferable  to  moist  heat  for  simply  relieving  pain  and  con- 
gestion, as  animals  are  less  apt  to  become  chilled  by  drafts 
and  evaporation  from  the  surface  afterwards.  It  is  gener- 
ally more  difficult  to  obtain,  however. 

Inhalations  of  plain  or  medicated  steam  are  given  for 
their  local  effect  on  the  mucous  membranes  of  the  upper  air 
passages.  The  moist  heat  has  a  soothing  action  on  the 
nerves,  and  tends  to  loosen  dry  exudations.  Agents  may  be 
incorporated  in  the  inhalation  haviug  a  sedative,  stimulating 
or  antiseptic  action.  (Yid.  "  Agents  Acting  on  Respiratory 
Organs,"  pp.  47,  48.) 

The  technique  consists  in  placing  a  bucket  containing 
a  boiling  mash  under  the  horse's  nose,  or  in  pouring  cool 
water  over  a  heated  brick  or  iron  in  the  bottom  of  a  pail. 
The  practice  of  tying  a  bag  over  a  horse's  head,  and  steam- 
ing him  therein,  is  bad,  if  the  animal  is  suffering  from 
respiratory  troubles,  as  insufficient  pure  air  is  obtainable. 
A  dog  may  be  placed  on  the  seat  of  a  cane  bottomed  chair, 
and  covered  loosely  with  a  sheet  over  the  whole,  the  steam 
being  generated  in  a  vessel  beneath. 

Hot  Baths  at  a  temperature  of  98°  to  110°  F.  are  imprac- 
ticable for  larger  animals.  They  can  be  given  to  the  smaller 
animals  in  collapse,  shock,  rheumatism,  and  to  abort  cold 
after  exposure.  Glowing  heat  is  applied  by  means  of  heated 
metal,  and  is  treated  under  the  section  on  counter-irri- 
tation. 

ACTION  OF  HEAT  CONTRASTED  WITH  THAT  OP  COLD. 

The  action  of  intense  heat  or  cold  on  animal  tissue  is 
very  similar  in  effect,  producing  vasomotor  paralysis,  con- 
gestion, inflammation,  destruction  of  tissue  and  death.  Even 
the  sensations  to  which  they  give  rise  resemble  each  other 


686  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

SO  closely,  that  the  coolies  on  first  handling  ice  said  they 
could  not  hold  it  because  it  burned  their  fingere.  Strong  heat 
(115°  to  120°  F.)  contracts  blood  vessels  in  underlying  parts 
and  overcomes  pain  and  congestion.  Heat  of  this  degree 
approaches  cold  in  similarity  of  action.  A  moderate 
degree  of  heat  dilates  vessels,  while  cold  of  like  intensity 
contracts  them.  Moderate  heat  relieves  pain  by  relaxing 
tissue,  diminishes  vascular  tension  by  dilating  efferent  ves- 
sels of  the  collateral  circulation,  and  draining  o&  blood  from 
the  congested  areas.  Moderate  cold,  on  the  other  hand, 
accomplishes  a  similar  result  in  benumbing  nervous  sensa- 
tion and  lessening  the  impact  of  blood  in  the  painful  region 
by  constringing  the  afferent  vessels.  Tissue  change  is 
increased  by  moderate  heat,  but  decreased  by  cold  applied 
locally,  or  generally  in  fever.  Swelling  of  tissue  is  reduced 
by  cold  directly  ;  only  indirectly  by  heat,  which  may,  indeed, 
increase  it.  Softening  and  sloughing  of  parts,  suppuration 
and  "ripening"  of  abscesses  and  "cleaning  off"  of  wounds, 
are  facilitated  by  moderate  heat,  but  hindered  by  cold. 

Disinfectants,  Antiseptics  and  Deodorants. 

Dlswfectants,  or  germicides^  are  agents  which  destroy 
the  micro-organisms,  causing  infectious  and  contagious  dis- 
eases, fermentation  and  putrefaction.  Antiseptics  are  agents 
which  prevent  the  growth  d,nd  development  of  the  micro- 
organisms, occasioning  fermentation,  putrefaction  and  dis- 
ease; more  especially  the  micrococci  producing  suppuiation. 

Deodorizers^  or  deodorants,  are  agents  which  destroy 
or  counteract  a  foul  odor.  They  are  not  necessarily  anti- 
septic or  disinfectants.  Considerable  confusion  exists  in 
relation  to  the  terms  disinfectant  and  antiseptic,  because  the 
latter  is  often  described  as  an  agent  which  inhibits  the 
growth,  or  destroys  the  life  of  the  micro-organisms  of  fer- 
mentation, putrefaction,  and  disease.  This  definition  makes 
antiseptics  synonymous  with  disinfectants.  The  distinction 
exists,  however,  according  to  common  usage,  that  while  dis- 


DISINFECTANTS,  ANTISEPTICS  AND  DEODORANTS  687 

infectants  may,  in  dilution,  act  as  antiseptics,  antiseptics  are 
not  often  disinfectants,  and  in  the  nature  of  things  are  not 
strong  enough  to  kill  germs,  although  they  may  hinder  their 
growth.  Antiseptics  may  then  be  regarded  as  a  subdivision 
of  disinfectants.  The  two  terms  are  unnecessary  and  mis- 
leading, as  either  might  embrace  both  interference  with  the 
growth  and  destruction  of  micro-organisms.  Disinfection 
may  fall  short  of  sterilization  ;  i.  e.,  death  of  all  germs. 
Boiling  a  fluid  containing  micro-organisms  wholly  kills 
them  ;  but,  while  disinfectants  may  destroy  the  germs  of 
disease,  they  often  fail  to  kill  more  resistant  and  harmless 
organisms,  as  the  spores  of  B.  subtilis.  The  scope  of  anti- 
septics has  been  extended  by  some  authors  (Hare)  to  include 
agents  which  destroy  the  toxic  products  of  bacteria  (iodo- 
form) aud  prevent  their  absorption.  A  discrimination  be- 
tween disinfectants  and  antiseptics  may  be  made  in  relation 
to  their  connection  with  the  body.  Those  agents  employed 
to  kill  germs,  in  matter  distinct  from  the  living  body,  are 
disinfectants ;  while  those  agents  applied  on  the  surface,  or 
introduced  within  the  body,  may  be  classed  as  antiseptics, 
since  they  can  rarely  be  used  in  such  strength  as  to  kill  all 
micro-organisms  without  injuring  or  killing  their  host. 

DISINFECTANTS  AND   DISINFECTION. 

Air,  sunlight,  heat  and  water  are  naturally  the  best  dis- 
infectants. Air  scatters  and  dilutes  micro-organisms,  making 
them  pathologically  inactive.  There  is  no  more  effective 
way  to  disinfect  a  stable,  in  which  animals  are  living,  than 
by  free  ventilation  with  pure  air.  It  is  well  known  that  ani- 
mals are  less  liable  to  contract  infectious  diseases  in  the 
comparatively  pure  air  of  the  country  than  in  closely 
ciowded  and  ill-ventilated  city  buildings.  Likewise,  the 
contagious  diseases  of  children  mostly  occur  in  winter,  when 
they  are  herded  together  in  schools  and  in  poorly  ventilated 
dwellings. 

To  attempt  to  disinfect  the  air  surrounding  a  patient  is 
the  height  of  absurdity.     The  generation  of  chlorine  and 


688  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

sulphurous  acid  gases  for  this  purpose,  although  recom- 
mended in  text  books,  is  futile,  and  by  irritating  the  respira- 
tory mucous  membrane,  accomplishes  moie  harm  than  good, 
since  a  congested  surface  offers  a  more  suitable  field  for 
bacterial  growth.  Air,  on  the  other  hand,  may  be  a  medium 
of  infection  when  contaminate^  with  dust  containing  patho- 
genic bacteria  (B.  tuberculosis).  Sunlight  is  prejudicial 
to  the  vitality  of  bacteria.  Whereas,  the  bacilli  of  tubercu- 
losis will  live  almost  indefinitely  in  dark,  damp  places,  they 
quickly  succumb  to  sunlight  and  dry  air.  Sunlight  and  pure 
air  are,  then,  imperative  for  both  the  immediate  and  pre- 
ventive treatment  of  germ  diseases.  Heat  is  the  most 
powerful  agency  for  disinfection  at  our  command.*  Dry 
heat,  to  be  efl&cacious,  must  be  applied  at  a  temperature  of 
140°  C.  (284°  F.)  for  three  hours  to  kill  all  bacteria  and 
spores ;  but  this  degree  of  heat  scorches  most  fabrics  and 
destroys  many  materials.  Boiling  water  quickly  kills  all 
non-spore-bearing  pathogenic  bacteria,  and  these  include 
most  of  the  organisms  causing  the  common  contagious  and 
infectious  diseases  (tuberculosis  and  anthrax  excepted). 
Two  hours  of  continuous  boiling  will  not  destroy  the  most 
resistant  of  micro-organisms — the  spores  of  the  hay  ba- 
cillus— but  moist  or  saturated  steam,  at  230°  F.,  will  infallibly 
kill  any  spores  whatsoever  within  a  few  minutes.  Fire  is 
the  most  complete  disinfectant,  because  it  not  only  destroys 
germs,  but  their  food  and  products.  Water,  like  air,  dilutes 
germs  and  aids  oxidation  and  destruction  of  oiganic  matter ; 
but,  again  like  air,  drinking  water  may  be  the  source  of  in- 
fection when  suflBcieutly  contaminated. 

MECHANICAL  MEANS  OF  PROCURING  ASEPSIS. 

The  placing  of  sole  reliance  upon  chemical  agents  for 
surgical  antisepsis,  in  relation  to  the  body,  is  a  common 
error.  These  agents  may  damage  denuded  tissue,  and  do 
not  reach  the  micro-organisms  buried  in  the  tissues.  There- 
fore, it  is  impossible  to  render  living  tissue  absolutely 
aseptic,  or  sterile,  by  merely  bathing  it  with  chemical  solu- 


DISINFECTANTS,   ANTISEPTICS  AND   DEODORANTS  689 

tions.  Far  more  efficacious  is  mechanical  cleansing  of  the 
skin  with  soap,  water  and  the  scrubbing  brush,  and  even  of 
infected  raw  surfaces  with  the  brush  and  corrosive  sublimate 
solution  (1-1000),  supplemented,  if  necessary,  by  the  knife, 
caustic  and  drainage,  to  remove  necrosed  tissue  and  septic 
material. 

CHEMICAL  AGENTS. 

Mercuric  bichloride,  carbolic  acid,  quicklime,  chlori- 
nated lime,  sulphurous  acid,  and  chlorine,  are  more  fre- 
quently employed  as  disinfectants.  Corrosive  sublimate 
solutions  are  decomposed  by  keeping,  and  by  contact  with 
albumin  and  ammonia.  Acids,  or  common  salt,  added  to 
bichloride  solutions  prevent,  in  a  measure,  this  decomposi- 
tion ;  but,  nevertheless,  mercuric  bichloride  is  rendered  unfit 
for  the  disinfection  of  masses  of  decomposing  aTbuminous 
matter,  as  manure.  One  of  the  best  solutions,  employed  by 
the  Paris  Disinfection  Service,  is  composed  of  corrosive 
sublimate,  2  grammes  ;  tartaric  acid,  4  grammes  ;  and  water, 

1  litre  (1-500),  colored  with  5  drops  of  a  5  per  cent,  solution 
of  indigo  carminate.  An  English  solution,  in  common  use, 
consists  of  corrosive  sublimate,  1  ounce ;  hydrochloric  acid, 

2  ounces,  and  water  to  make  3  gallons  (1-768).  The  usual 
strength  of  corrosive  sublimate  solutions,  for  disinfection, 
varies  from  1-500  to  1-1000.  These  solutions  are  suitable 
for  aiticles  made  wholly,  or  in  part,  of  leather,  rubber  and 
fur ;  for  blankets,  cotton  and  woolen  fabrics,  and  for  floors, 
walls,  and  wood  work  of  stables.  Surgical  instruments,  and 
other  metallic  implements  and  fixtures,  are  injured  by  corro- 
sive sublimate  solutions.  Carbolic  acid  is  more  expensive 
than  corrosive  sublimate,  and  less  efficient  in  cases  where 
the  latter  is  applicable.  Carbolic  acid  can,  however,  be  used 
to  disinfect  albuminous  material  and  metallic  substances. 
It  is  employed  on  animal  excreta  in  5  per  cent,  aqueous 
solution  (about  8  ounces  to  the  gallon  of  hot  water).  This 
solution  will  cause  the  hands  to  dry,  crack  and  fissure  if 
they  are  immersed  in  it  for  any  length  of  time. 


690  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

Chlorinated  lime  and  quicklime  are  good  disinfectant 
agents  to  mix  with  animal  evacuations.  In  fact,  bleaching 
powder  is  probably  the  best  and  cheapest  disinfectant  we 
possess  for  use  in  privies,  drains, .  sinks,  cesspools,  and 
sewers,  and  for  the  destruction  of  micro-organisms  on  floors, 
and  in  faeces  and  urine. 

A  few  pounds  of  this  preparation  may  be  thrown  into 
privies  or  cesspools  once  a  week,  and  the  pure  compound, 
or  a  saturated  solution,  may  be  scattered  over  floors  or 
mixed  with  manure.  A  1  per  cent,  solution  is  used  to  dis- 
infect harness,  which  should  be  washed  and  greased  directly 
afterwards.  Stagnant  and  putrid  water  may  be  rendered 
drinkable,  after  some  hours,  by  the  addition  of  1  to  2  ounces 
to  each  65  gallons  of  water.  Chlorinated  lime  is  a  powerful 
deodorant  as  well  as  disinfectant,  but  is  of  no  value  in  either 
capacity  unless  the  compound  contains  so  much  chlorine  gas 
that  the  face  cannot  be  held  near  it  without  the  production 
of  great  irritation  to  the  eyes.  Bleaching  powder  should  be 
placed  upon  decomposing  animal  bodies,  and  sheets  wet 
with  a  saturated  solution  should  be  wrapped  about  the  car- 
casses of  animals  dead  from  contagious  diseases,  to  prevent 
infection  during  transportation.  Disinfection  by  sulphurous 
acid  and  chlorine  gas  is  done  to  destroy  germs  which  cannot 
be  reached  by  other  metheds.  Three  pounds  of  sulphur  and 
two  ounces  of  turpentine  or  alcohol  (to  afford  moisture  and 
aid  combustion)  are  needful  for  every  1000  cubic  feet  <*f  air 
space.  Sulphur  is  generally  burned  in  an  iron  vessel  placed 
on  sand,  or  floating  in  a  tub  of  water.  If  the  building  is 
sufficiently  tight  to  insure  proper  disinfection,  it  is  difficult 
to  secure  combustion  of  the  proper  amount  of  sulphur.  To 
obviate  this,  the  sulphur  may  be  saturated  with  turpentine, 
ignited  and  placed  in  an  iron  kettle  on  a  tripod  over  an  alco- 
hol lamp.  Chlorine  is  disengaged  from  chlorinated  lime,  to 
which  is  added  sulphuric  acid  and  water,  each  two  parts. 
Buildings  must  be  tightly  sealed  and  made  completely  irre- 
spirable  for  animals  during  the  space  of  three  hours.  Sul- 
phurous acid  disiufection  is  not  of  much  value,  and  has 


DISINFECTANTS,   ANTISEPTICS   AND   DEODORANTS  691 

been  discarded  by  most  liealth  authorities  both  here  and 
abroad.  It  certainly  will  not  kill  the  spores  of  anthrax  and 
tuberculosis,  and  should  never  be  allowed  to  replace 
thorough  mechanical  cleansing  and  disinfection  with  other 
chemical  agents,  but  may  be  utilized  as  an  additional 
safeguard.  Chlorine  gas  is  more  reliable.  Formaldehyde 
is  now  being  employed  by  many  boards  of  health  for  general 
disinfectant  purposes,  and  it  appears  to  be  the  best  means 
of  gaseous  disinfection.     (See  p.  320.) 

ANTISEPTICS. 

It  is  perhaps  well  to  consider  here  the  sources  of 
infection  and  the  natural  defenses  or  immunity  possessed 
by  animals  against  parasitic  invasion.  Pathogenic  micro- 
organisms are  commonly  brought  in  contact  with  the  body 
through  the  agency  of  the  air,  drinking  water  and  food,  and 
insects  (flies  and  mosquitoes),  and  gain  entrance  by  means 
of  the  air  passages  and  digestive  canal ;  but  even  now  the 
micro-organisms  are  in  a  certain  sense  outside  of  the  body, 
since  it  is  not  easy  for  them  to  penetrate  the  intact  and 
healthy  ciliated  mucous  membrane  of  the  respiratory  tract. 
But  when  the  mucous  membrane  is  damaged  by  inflamma- 
tion, and  the  ciliae  becomes  paralyzed,  and  abnormal  secre- 
tions are  formed,  then  a  favorable  opportunity  is  offered  for 
their  growth  and  entrance  into  the  circulation.  In  the 
digestive  tract  the  hydrochloric  acid  of  the  gastric  juice  and 
bile  act  as  natural  antiseptics,  while  the  liver  is  thought 
to  destroy  toxins  resulting  from  bacterial  life. 

When  digestion  is  in  a  normal  condition,  putrefaction 
and  fermentation  do  not  occur ;  but  when  its  activity  is 
diminished,  and  the  secretion  of  the  digestive  juices  is 
lessened,  and  the  hepatic  functions  are  depressed,  then  a 
chance  is  offered  for  bacterial  growth,  fermentation  and 
absorption  of  toxins,  or  even  actual  transmigration  of 
micro-organisms  through  the  intestinal  walls.  To  these 
natural  agencies  of  defense,  which  may  be  likened  to  out- 
lying pickets  shielding  the  animal  from  bacterial  invasion, 


692  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

we  must  add  the  intrinsic  power  of  resistance  vested  in  the 
tissues,  blood  serum,  and  leucocytes,  in  combatting  micro- 
organisms ;  and  the  production  of  antitoxins  in  the  body, 
antagonizing  the  toxins  formed  by  bacterial  action.  Micro- 
organisms are  always  to  be  found  on  the  surface  of  the  body 
and  within  its  natural  cavities  opened  to  the  air,  but  patho- 
genic bacteria  are  less  likely  to  do  harm  if  the  animal  is  in 
a  healthy  condition.  A  limited  number  of  bacteria  (micro- 
cocci) may  even  exist  within  the  blood  in  health,  and  thia 
fact  accounts  for  suppuration  occurring  when  the  tissues 
are  severely  injured,  without  solution  of  continuity.  The 
internal  use  of  antiseptics  is  of  comparatively  little  value, 
except  when  these  agents  come  in  direct  contact  witli  germs 
in  the  digestive  tract.  This  follows  because  it  is  impossible 
to  administer  antiseptics  in  suflScient  amount  to  seriously 
interfere  with  bacterial  growth  in  the  tissues,  without  injur- 
ing or  even  killing  the  patient. 

There  is  known  but  a  single  instance  (malaria)  where 
the  exhibition  of  an  antiseptic  will  inhibit  the  development 
of  micro-organisms  of  a  general  infectious  disease,  and  so 
absolutely  arrest  it.  Antiseptics  are  of  benefit  in  rendering 
the  contents  of  the  digestive  tube  more  or  less  aseptic,  and 
(after  absorption)  they  exert  some  antiseptic  action  on  the 
mucous  membrane  of  the  respiratory  tract  (volatile  oils),  and 
also  on  the  urinary  tract,  during  their  elimination.  The 
principal  agents  used  as  antiseptics  for  surgical  purposes 
are  :  corrosive  sublimate,  carbolic  acid,  creolin,  hydrogen  di- 
oxide, potassium  permanganate,  zinc  chloride,  iodoform,  sali- 
cylic acid,  aristol,  iodol,  and  boric  acid.  Those  employed  in- 
ternally include  naphtol,  salol,  creolin,  carbolic  acid,  bismuth 
salicylate  and  subnitrate,  quinine,  salicylic  acid,  and  many 
others.  For  a  more  detailed  description  the  reader  is  referred 
to  special  articles  on  these  agents  in  the  preceding  pages. 

DEODORIZERS   OR  DEODORANTS. 

Deodorants  are  not  of  any  practical  value  in  simply 
exchanging  one   odor  for  another,  but,  as  in   the  case  of 


DISINFECTANTS,   ANTISEPTICS   AND   DEODORANTS  693 

chlorine,  they  sometimes  actually  destroy  compounds  which 
give  rise  to  the  stench.  Sewer  and  other  malodorous  gases, 
resulting  from  foul  decomposing  matter  and  excreta,  may  be 
freer  from  bacteria  than  ordinary  air,  and  are  not  usually 
the  carriers  of  micro-organisms,  nor  the  cause  of  specific 
infectious  diseases.  These  gases  do,  however,  occasion  in- 
definite symptoms  of  ill-health.  Deodorizers,  which  are 
also  disinfectants,  are  of  service  in  destroying  noxious 
emanations  and  their  source ;  but,  to  accomplish  this, 
it  is  necessary  that  they  come  into  direct  contact  with 
putrefying  material,  and  should  not  be  placed  about  the 
habitations  of  man  or  animals,  with  the  ridiculous  idea 
that  they  are  achieving  more  than  the  production  of  a  vile 
odor. 

PRACTICAL  DISINFECTION. 

The  premises  occupied  by  animals  suffering  from  con- 
tagious diseases,  together  with  all  articles  contained  therein, 
such  as  harness,  blankets,  stable  implements,  and  evacua- 
tions, must  be  disinfected  after  the  removal  of  all  animals 
and  isolation  of  the  sick.  The  excreta  should  be  mixed  with 
milk  of  lime  (1  part  of  freshly  slacked  quicklime,  with  2 
parts,  by  volume,  of  water),  or  with  pure  chlorinated  lime. 
The  floors  and  walls  must  be  scraped  and  washed.  Boiling 
water  should  then  be  poured  over  every  available  part  of 
the  premises,  and  these  brushed  with  a  saturated  solution  of 
chlorinated  lime.  Clothing  may  be  treated  by  boiling  in 
water,  or  by  soaking  in  a  solution  of  corrosive  sublimate 
(l-500j,  or  carbolic  acid  (1-20),  for  twelve  hours.  Harness 
is  disinfected  by  washing  with  soap  and  water,  and  then 
with  a  2  per  cent,  crude  carbolic  or  creolin,  or  1-1000  corro- 
sive solution.  Valueless  articles  are  given  to  the  flames. 
Stable  and  metallic  instruments  and  fixtures  are  to  be  freed 
fi'om  dirt,  scrubbed  with  soap  and  hot  water,  drenched  with 
boiling  water,  and  then  with  a  2  per  cent,  crude  carbolic  or 
creolin  solution. 

Gaseous  disinfection   is  now  in   order  to  kill  micro- 


694  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

organisms  in  remote  and  inaccessible  places,  Liv6  steam 
is  tlie  most  efficient  means  at  our  disposal  for  this 
purpose,  when  a  suitable  apparatus  for  its  application  to 
woodwork,  haymows,  etc.,  is  obtainable.  In  place  of  this 
we  may  resort  to  formaldehyde,  chlorine  or  sulphurous  acid 
gas.  The  walls  are  finally  painted  or  covered  with  white- 
wash containing  2  per  cent,  of  crude  carbolic  acid.  Healthy 
animals,  which  have  not  been  ex[)Osed  to  infection,  may 
now  be  allowed  to  return  to  their  disinfected  quarters. 

SURGICAL  ANTISEPSIS  AND  ASEPSIS. 

It  may  be  fitting,  and  not  out  of  place,  to  briefly  outline 
here  the  use  of  antiseptics  and  asepsis  in  veterinary  surgery. 
Since  the  days  when  Lister  introduced  antisepsis,  surgery 
has  advanced  in  a  manner  which  appears,  however,  like 
retrogression.  It  is  now  conceded  that  asepsis  can  be 
attained  more  satisfactorily  and  safely  without  the  general 
use  of  antiseptics.  For  antiseptics,  as  has  been  noted, 
inflict  a  certain  amount  of  damage  upon  denuded  surfaces, 
and,  in  so  far,  lessen  the  resistance  of  the  body  to  the 
inroads  of  bacteria.  Modern  surgery  attempts  to  secure 
a  comparative  asepsis  by  mechanical  cleanliness,  which  is 
more  efficient,  simpler,  and  harmless  to  the  body.  Antisep- 
tics are  indicated  to  assist  asepsis  in  the  toilet  of  the 
unbroken  skin,  and  when  sepsis  has  already  occurred,  or  is 
unavoidable.  The  gross  neglect  of  aseptic  precautions,  often 
seen  in  the  operations  of  veterinary  surgery,  would  be  con- 
sidered criminal  practice  in  human  surgery. 

Asepsis  is,  nevertheless,  very  difficult  to  secure  in  the 
lower  animals  living  among  filthy  surroundings  and  lying  on 
faecal  discharges.  In  addition  to  these  disadvantages,  the 
trouble  of  controlling  animal-movements  during  operation, 
and  of  keeping  dressings  in  place,  make  the  attainment  of 
perfect  asepsis  embarrassing  and  frequently  impossible. 
The  more  common  administration  of  anaesthetics  would 
facilitate  asepsis  by  preventing  movements  of  the  patient 
and  cpntact  of  the  operative  field  with  dirt. 


DISINFECTANTS,    ANTISEPTICS   AND   DEODORANTS  695 

But  there  are  all  degrees  of  infectioD,  aud  while,  with 
the  best  methods  of  securing  cleanliness  at  our  command,  it 
is  impossible  to  completely  sterilize  normal  skin  and 
tissues,  yet  the  surgical  result  may  be  perfect.  Therefore, 
in  surgical  operations,  we  should  endeavor  to  procure 
as  small  an  amount  of  infection,  or  dosage  of  micro-organ- 
isms, as  possible,  consistent  with  existing  environment 
and  conditions. 

The  following  aseptic  technique  is  especially  applicable 
in  the  case  of  any  surgical  operation  undertaken  upon  a  non- 
infected  part.  If  it  is  possible  to  carry  out  all  the  details, 
and  the  result  is  successful,  healing  will  take  place  without 
suppuration. 

Operations  upon  suppurating  and  infected  areas  should 
be  conducted  with  cleanliness,  and  antiseptics  are  more  de- 
sirable, particularly  hydrogen  dioxide  in  full  strength,  and 
corrosive  sublimate  (1-2000). 

To  prepare  the  surface  of  the  body  for  operations,  the 
hair  is  first  clipped  and  shaved,  the  skin  is  thoroughly 
scrubbed  with  a  brush,  green  soap  and  water  for  five  min- 
utes, and  then  with  corrosive  sublimate  (1-1000).  After  the 
skin  is  incised  there  is  no  further  necessity  for  antiseptics 
unless  the  wound  is  already  infected,  or  becomes  so  by  ex- 
posure to  impure  air,  or  contact  with  dirt.  The  hands  of 
the  operator,  including  the  finger  nails,  should  be  brushed 
until  clean  with  green  soap  and  water,  and  then  with  mer- 
curic bichloride  (1-1000)  solution.  Instruments  are  thor- 
oughly scrubbed  with  soap  and  water,  and  boiled  for  ten 
minutes  in  an  aqueous  solution  of  sodium  bicarbonate 
(1  teaspoonful  to  the  quart),  aud  then  placed  in  a  solution 
of  carbolic  acid  (1-40),  or  removed  to  a  sterile  towel.  New 
sponges  only  should  be  employed,  which  have  been  previ- 
ously cleansed,  and  then  soaked  in  carbolic  acid  (1-40) 
solution,  or  pieces  of  sterile  gauze  may  be  used. 

If  irrigation  is  desirable,  normal  salt  solution  (1  heaping 
teaspoonful  to  the  quart  of  sterile  water)  is  appropriate. 
Nothing  else  but  this  is  allowable  within  the  non-infected 


696  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

Hbdominal  cavity.*  Sutures  of  silk,  and  needles,  are  pre- 
pared by  boiling  in  water  for  ten  minutes.  The  area  about 
the  operative  field  is  to  be  surrounded  with  cloths,  or  towels, 
which  have  been  boiled  or  baked,  and  instruments  and 
sponges  may  be  laid  on  these. 

Dressings  may  consist  of  gauze  which  has  been  exposed 
for  three  hours  to  dry  heat  at  140°  C.  (284°  F.),  or  placed  in 
an  oven  of  an  ordinary  cooking  stove,  in  closed  tin  cans,  until 
it  becomes  scorched  and  slightly  brown.  The  same  gauze 
may  be  used  for  sponges.  Unsterilized  articles  are  not  to 
be  suffered  to  come  in  contact  with  the  operator,  or  wound, 
during  the  operation. 

Wound  infection  from  exposure  to  the  air  and  other 
media,  is  prevented  by  immediate  dressing  and  bandaging, 
or  by  collodion  applications. 

Venesection. 

Venesection,  or  blood-letting,  formerly  abused,  has,  for 
that  reason,  fallen  into  almost  complete  disuse.  This  is  un- 
fortunate, since  blood-letting  is  a  valuable  and  often  life- 
saving  measure.  The  indications  for  venesection  are  chiefly 
limited  to  conditions  associated  with  a  general  high  arterial 
pressure  and  local  engorgement  of  some  organ. 

In  such  cases  venesection  very  rapidly  reduces  general 
blood-tension  to  a  point  lower  than  that  existing  in  the 
engorged  region,  so  that  congestion  is  relieved.  A  full,  in- 
compressible pulse  is  said  to  indicate  the  desirability  of 
venesection  in  severe  acute  disorders — in  accordance  with 
the  above — but  this  is  not  by  any  means  invariably  the  fact, 
as  will  be  shown. 

Venesection  leads  to  a  reduction  of  temperature,  and 
vascular  tension  is  lowered  for  from  3  to  48  hours,  accord- 


*It  may  be  noted  here  that  the  peritoneum  of  the  horse  is  so 
extremely  delicate  and  liable  to  infection,  as  compared  to  that  of  man 
and  dogs,  that  abdominal  operations  are  practically  contraindicated  in 
the  case  of  this  animal. 


VENESECTION 


697 


ing  to  the  quantity  of  blood  withdrawn,  but  the  bloodvessels 
quickly  adjust  themselves  to  the  smaller  mass  of  blood,  and 
the  original  quantity  of  this  vital  fluid  is  soon  restored  (24 
to  48  hours)  through  absorption  from  the  tissues  and  ali- 
mentary canal.  The  heart  beats  more  rapidly,  owing  to  the 
lessened  resistance  in  the  vessels,  and  venesection  is  accom- 
panied by  nausea  and  prostration. 

The  blood  is  less  dense  and  more  fluid  after  blood- 
letting, and  for  this  reason,  if  inflammatory  processes  follow, 
exudation  is  more  apt  to  ensue.  The  fibrin  is  first  regained, 
then  the  normal  number  of  white,  and  finally  that  of  red 
corpuscles,  in  from  one  to  five  weeks.  Circulatory  depress- 
ants— as  veratrum  viride — accomplish  much  the  same  results 
as  blood-letting,  by  causing  general  reduction  of  vascular 
tension  and  relief  from  local  congestion,  thus  "  bleeding  an 
animal  into  its  own  veins  "  without  loss  of  blood,  it  is  true, 
but  with  less  rapid  and  certain  effect. 

Cathartics,  diuretics  and  diarphoretics  also  lower  blood 
pressure  by  abstraction  of  fluid  from  the  vessels,  but  their 
action  is  slow.  The  following  disorders  are  those  most 
suitable  for  treatment  by  venesection  when  they  exist  in  an 
alarming  form  in  robust  animals  : 


Sthenic  pneumonia. 
Sthenic  pleuritis. 
Urticaria. 
Lymphangitis. 

(  Bacterial, 
Toxaemia  <  Mineral, 

(  Vegetable. 
(Followed  by  saline  infusion.) 


Cerebral  congestion.    In  insolation 

and  tympanitis. 
Apoplexy,  particularly  parturient 

apoplexy  of  cows. 
Encephalitis. 

Acute  cerebral  meningitis. 
Active  pulmonary  congestion  and 

apoplexy. 
Passive  pulmonary  congestion  in 

cardiac  disease. 

Venesection  from  the  jugular  in  cerebral  congestion  is, 
in  fact,  a  species  of  local  blood-letting  by  directly  draining 
blood  away  from  the  brain;  and  it  preserves  life  by  pre- 
venting pressure  od,  and  paralysis  of,  the  great  vital  medul- 
lary centres  controlling  the  respiration  and  heart.  Moderate 
blood-letting  is  sometimes  advisable  in  the  early  stages  of 


698  GENERAL   THERAPEUTIC   MEASURES 

severe  iuflammatory  attacks  of  the  brain  or  its  mem- 
branes. 

In  cerebral  congestion,  and  dyspnoea  due  to  gastric 
tympany  and  pressure  on  the  diaphragm,  bleeding  may  give 
relief.  Blood-letting  is  particularly  applicable  in  the  treat- 
ment of  parturient  apoplexy  of  cows,  and,  when  the  disease 
has  once  occurred,  it  may  be  employed  as  a  prophylactic 
measure  in  plethoric  animals  immediately  before  parturition* 
Yenesection  alleviates  dangerous  pulmonary  congestion, 
removes  the  venous  load  on  the  right  heart,  and  relieves 
dyspnoea  and  cyanosis  by  making  it  possible  for  the  heart  to 
force  a  smaller  quantity  of  blood  through  the  less  obstructed 
lungs. 

A  feeble  and  easily  compressible  pulse  does  not  neces- 
sarily contraindicate  venesection  in  engorgement  of  the 
lungs,  for  this  condition  leads  to  stasis  in  the  pulmonary 
circulation,  prevents  the  proper  flow  of  blood  into  the  left 
ventricle,  and  thus  causes  arterial  anaemia.  Therefore,  so 
far  from  contraindicating  blood-letting,  this  condition  urg- 
ently demands  it.  Alarming  dyspnoea,  great  cyanosis, 
together  with  a  general  plethoric  state,  should  guide  us  in 
blood-letting  in  sthenic  pneumonia  and  pulmonary  conges- 
tion, rather  than  the  state  of  the  pulse.  Venesection  is 
serviceable  in  advanced  cases  of  cardiac  disease  in  dogs — 
with  failing  compensation,  venous  engorgement  of  the  lungs, 
and  dyspnoea — by  relieving  the  obstruction  to  the  right 
heart.  "  Moderate  blood-letting  is  occasionally  useful  in 
severe  cases  of  acute  pleuritis,  laminitis,  lymphangitis  and 
urticaria  in  plethoric  horses. 

Finally,  in  various  toxaemias,  blood-letting  drains  away 
both  the  blood  and  its  contained  poison.  The  mass  of 
blood  removed  may  be  advantageously  replaced  by  injection 
of  normal  salt  solution  into  a  vein  or  under  the  skin.  This 
method  is  not  in  prevalent  use  in  veterinary  medicine,  but  is 
applied  with  notable  success  in  human  practice.  Every 
veterinary  practitioner  should  be  competent  to  bleed  an 
animal.     An  amount  greater  than  ^  of  the  total  quantity  of 


YENESECTION  699 

blood  should  not  be  withdrawn.  The  total  quantity  of  blood 
is  equal  to  about  13.5  per  cent,  of  the  body  weight  in  horses ; 
to  2.2  per  cent,  of  the  body  weight  of  fat  swine ;  to  6.6  per 
cent,  of  the  body  weight  in  dogs,  and  to  7.7  per  cent,  of  the 
body  weight  in  man.  Large  horses  or  cattle  may  be  bled  to 
the  extent  of  from  4  to  6  qts.;  smaller  subjects,  2  to  4  qts. ; 
sheep,  ^  to  1  pt. ;  dogs,  4  oz.  to  1  pt. 

Blood-letting  is  generally  done  to  animals  in  the  upright 
position  by  shaving  the  hair  and  cleansing  the  skin  over  the 
jugular  vein  in  the  upper  part  of  the  neck.  The  vein  is 
made  prominent  by  pressure  below  the  site  of  operation,  and 
a  fleam,  or  knife  carefully  guarded,  is  plunged  into  the  vein, 
making  a  good  clean  incision.  The  blood  should  be  quickly 
withdrawn  and  carefully  measured  and  the  effect  on  the 
pulse  noted,  and  the  blood-letting  maintained  until  there  is 
noticeable  reduction  in  the  vascular  tension  and  other 
symptoms,  for  the  relief  of  which  venesection  is  employed. 
The  bleeding  is  arrested  by  suturing  the  lips  of  the  wound 
and  by  pressure  with  a  bandage. 

Local  Blood-letting  J  or  Scarification,  is  often  useful  in 
relieving  tension  and  pain  in  locally  congested  or  inflamed 
tissues,  and  may  even  avert  death  of  the  part.  Further- 
more, stasis  is  removed  and  exudation  from  the  engorged 
vessels  may  be  prevented,  while  a  fresh  supply  of  arterial 
blood  flows  in  to  reinstate  the  vital  processes. 

Scarification  is  practiced  by  making  numerous  small, 
parallel  incisions  into  the  skin,  fascia  or  other  tissues  in  the 
long  axis  of  a  limb  or  part.  In  iuflammation  of  the  perios- 
teum it  is  necessary  to  puncture  this  membrane.  Bleeding 
is  facilitated  by  warm  poulticing,  and  is  arrested  by  packing 
the  incisions  with  sterile  gauze. 


INDICATIONS. 

Lampas. 
Glossitis. 

Mastitis. 
Laminitis. 

Periostitis. 

(To  secure  blood  for  microscopic 

Cellulitis. 

examination.)   ' 

Conjunctivitis. 

700  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

Sometimes  the  veins  leading  from  an  inflamed  area  are 
opened,  thus  securing  local  abstraction  of  blood;  e.  g.,  the 
digital  veins  in  laminitis ;  the  milk  veins  in  mammitis. 

Scarification,  or  puncture,  is  indicated  in  the  above- 
mentioned  conditions  whenever  there  is  great  swelling,  pain 
and  tension  in  the  affected  parts,  and  not  otherwise. 

Transfusion. 

Transfusion  is  the  transfer,  directly  or  indirectly,  of 
blood  from  one  living  animal  to  another.  In  this  process 
the  blood  must  be  obtained  from  an  animal  of  the  same 
species  as  the  patient,  but  even  then  disintegration  of  the 
blood  corpuscles  follows,  resulting  in  nephritis  from  the 
extra  work  put  upon  the  kidneys  in  their  effort  to  eliminate 
the  destruction-products  of  the  transfused  blood.  Embol- 
ism and  sepsis  are  added  dangers  even  when  the  blood  is 
defibrinated,  after  removal  from  the  body  of  the  host,  and 
only  the  serum  is  injected  into  the  patient. 

The  injection  of  warm,  normal  salt  solution  (.6  of  1  per 
cent.)  has  been  found  to  fill  all  the  indications  for  trans- 
fusion of  blood,  and  yet  is  free  from  the  dangers  and  diffi- 
culties besetting  the  latter. 

Saline  Infusion. 

Saline  infusions  are  intended  to  replace  the  normal 
blood  plasma,  and,  therefore,  should  contain  approximately 
the  amount  of  sodium  chloride — .6  of  1  per  cent. — contained 
in  this  fluid.  The  solutions  should  be  filtered  and  boiled 
previous  to  their  use,  when  this  is  possible,  and  are  made 
by  adding  a  heaping  teaspoonful  of  sodium  chloride  to  the 
quart  of  sterile  water,  which  is  used  at  a  temperature  of 
usually  103°  to  115°  F.,  according  to  the  mode  of  intro- 
duction and  circumstances. 

Simple  distilled  and  ordinary  water  are  noxious  to  the 
tissues,  while  salt  solution  is  (entirely  innocuous  unless  it 


i 


TRANSFUSION  701 

contains  three  times  the  quantity  of  sodium  chloride  nor- 
mally present  in  the  blood. 

3Iode  of  Introduction. — Saline  infusions  are  introduced 
within  the  body  (1)  by  intravenous  injection ;  (2)  by  injec- 
tion into  muscular  tissue  (hypodermoclysis)  ;  a^nd  (3)  by 
rectal  injection  (enteroclysis). 

Intravenous  injection  is  the  most  rapid  and  certain 
method,  but  not  so  simple  and  practicable  as  hypodermo- 
clysis. 

Any  superficial  vein  which  can  be  readily  seen  and 
isolated,  may  be  utilized ;  preferably  the  jugular  or  internal 
saphena  vein  in  animals ;  the  median  basilic,  or  cephalic,  at 
the  bend  of  the  elbow  in  man. 

The  apparatus  consists  of  a  glass  funnel  or  rubber  bag 
connected  by  four  or  more  feet  of  rubber  tubing,  with  a 
canula  or  curved  piece  of  glass  tubing  4  inches  long  and  \ 
inch  in  diameter  for  horses ;  J  inch  in  diameter  for  dogs. 
The  apparatus  should  be  boiled  immediately  before  using. 
The  vein  is  made  prominent  by  manual  pressure  exerted  by 
an  assistant,  or  by  a  bandage,  applied  proximally  to  the  seat 
of  operation.  The  hair  is  shaved  from  the  part,  which  is 
cleansed,  and  an  incision  1|  to  2J  inches  long  is  made  with 
a  sharp-pointed  knife  directly  over  the  vein  and  parallel  to 
its  long  axis.  The  sheath  of  the  vein  is  exposed,  raised  by 
dissecting  forceps,  and  divided.  The  vein  is  then  lifted  from 
its  bed  with  an  aneurism  needle,  and  two  silk  or  catgut  liga- 
tures are  drawn  under  it  about  an  inch  apart.  The  vein  is 
now  incised  longitudinally,  and,  as  the  blood  begins  to  spurt 
out,  the  distal  ligature  is  tied  about  the  vessel.  The  canula 
is  next  passed  into  the  incision  in  the  vein  toward  the  heart 
and  the  proximal  ligature  is  tied,  with  the  first  part  of  a 
surgeon's  knot,  about  the  vein  and  canula,  holding  the  latter 
in  place  and  preventing  leaking  of  the  salt  solution  from  the 
vessel.  When  the  injection  is  completed,  the  tube  is  with- 
drawn and  the  ]iroximal  suture  is  tied  on  the  heart  side  of 
the  incision,  and  thus  the  vessel  is  occluded  on  either  side 
of  the  seat  of  operation.     The  apparatus  is  filled  with  salt 


702  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC  MEASURES 

solution — including  the  funnel,  tubing,  and  canula — at  a 
temperature  of  103°  to  110°  F.  before  its  introduction  into 
the  Yein,and  the  funnel  should  be  kept  full  during  its  use  to 
prevent  the  entrance  of  air  into  the  vessel.  Any  pressure, 
previously  employed  between  the  incision  and  the  heart, 
should  of  course  be  removed  before  beginning  the  injection. 
A  little  clean  absorbent  cotton  may  be  placed  at  the  bottom 
of  the  funnel  before  the  salt  solution  is  poured  into  it,  if  the 
solution  has  not  been  previously  filtered.  In  using  the  ap- 
paratus the  funnel  is  raised  about  two  feet  above  the  vein. 
The  quantity  of  salt  solution  to  be  injected  will  vary  from  a 
few  ounces  to  two  pints  in  the  case  of  dogs ;  from  one  to 
many  quarts  for  horses.  Enormous  quantities  of  normal 
salt  solution  may  be  introduced  into  the  blood  without 
harm,  even  an  amount  equal  to  four  times  that  of  the  blood, 
providing  the  inflow  is  not  too  rapid ;  i.  e.,  exceeding  one 
fluid  drachm  to  the  pound  of  live  weight  in  fifteen  minutes. 
When  this  amount  is  exceeded  the  heart  and  kidneys  cannot 
take  care  of  the  great  quantity  of  fluid  in  the  vessels  and 
tissues.  A  return  to  the  normal  volume,  force,  and  rate  of 
the  pulse,  and  of  color  to  the  mucous  membranes,  will  lead 
us  to  stop  the  saline  infusion.  The  use  of  intravenous  saline 
injections  is  frequently  followed  by  a  reaction  within  half  an 
hour,  characterized  by  a  severe  rigor,  succeeded  by  sweat- 
ing, labored  breathing,  a  strong  pulse  and  increased  urinary 
secretion. 

Hypodermoclysis. 

Injection  of  warm  (103°  to  105°  F.)  normal  salt  solution 
into  the  muscular  tissue  of  the  neck,  abdomen  or  flank,  is 
done  aseptically  with  the  same  apparatus  employed  for  in- 
travenous saline  infusions*;  or  a  fountain  syringe  filled  with 
saline  solution  and  attached  to  a  sterile  aspirating  needle 
may  be  used ;    or  a  reversed  aspirator  apparatus  may  be 


*  Using  a  large  hollow  needle  to  thrust  under  tlie  skin  directly  into 
the  muscular  tissue,  instead  of  the  glass  tube  for  intravenous  injection. 


ENTEROCLYSIS  703 

utilized ;  i.  e.,  by  filling  tlie  jar  with  salt  solution  and  forcing 
the  air  into  the  jar,  thus  displacing  the  fluid.  The  fountain 
syringe  is  the  best  apparatus.  Hypodermoclysis  may  be 
employed  in  the  same  cases  as  intravenous  infusion,  and  is 
a  better  method  on  account  of  its  simplicity.  We  are  guided 
as  to  the  quantity  of  solution  desirable  by  the  same  indica- 
tions noted  above  as  referring  to  intravenous  saline  injec- 
tions. Hypodermoclysis  may  be  done  in  several  places,  and 
absorption  is  assisted  by  massage.  Salt  solutions  are 
injected  under  the  udder  in  females,  and  are  occasionally 
thrown  into  the  peritoneal  cavity,  particularly  after  opera- 
tions in  this  region,  before  closing  the  abdominal  walls. 

Enter  ocly  sis. 

Enteroclysys  applies  to  the  rectal  injection  'of  normal 
salt  solution  (115°  to  120°  F.)  to  secure  absorption.  This 
method  may  be  applied  in  cases  not  so  urgent  as  to 
demand  intravenous  saline  infusion  or  hypodermoclysis, 
more  especially  moderate  degrees  of  haemorrhage,  shock, 
collapse,  and  circulatory  depression,  when  the  intrinsic 
heat  of  the  injection  is  valuable  in  restoring  the  normal 
bodily  temperature. 

USES. 
INDICATIONS  FOR  SALINE  INFUSIONS. 


Grave  haemorrhage. 

Shock,  traumatic,  operative,  and 

electric. 
Suppression  of  urine. 
Severe  diarrhoea. 
Eclampsia. 


( Bacterial. 
Toxaemia -<  Mineral. 

(  Vegetable. 
In    threatened    death    from    any 

accidental  cause. 
In  any  disease  with  feeble  heart 
and  low  vascular  tension. 


Hypodermoclysis,  or  the  intravenous  injection  of  saline 
infusions,  find  their  greatest  usefulness  as  life-saving  meas- 
ures in  severe  haemorrhage.  "While  these  methods  are  not 
in  vogue  in  veterinary  practice,  they  have  become  recognized 
procedures  of  great  practical  value  in  human  medicine.  The 
indications,  following  haemorrhage,  are  to  fill  up  the  vessels 


704:  GENERAL  THERAPEUTIC   MEASURES 

and  to  restore  vascular  tension,  since  danger  is  imminent, 
not  from  loss  of  blood  corpuscles,  but  from  lack  of  a  circu- 
lating medium.  There  is  a  sufficient  number  of  red  cor- 
puscles to  carry  on  the  respiratory  and  oxygen-bearing 
functions  even  after  the  greatest  loss  of  blood  possible  from 
ordinary  causes.  lu  fact,  respiration  is  but  slightly  im- 
paired in  human  subjects  suffering  from  pernicious  anaemia, 
when  there  is  a  90  per  cent,  reduction  in  the  normal  number 
of  red  corpuscles,  and  two-thirds  of  the  blood  may  be  with- 
drawn from  animals  and  replaced  with  normal  salt  solutions 
without  serious  damage  resulting.  In  shock  there  is  general 
vasomotor  paralysis,  so  that  most  of  the  blood  collects  in 
the  abdominal  veins,  while  the  ventricles  and  arteries  are 
emptied.  In  this  condition  saline  infusions  (105°  to  110°  F.) 
are  of  infinite  value,  because  absorption  of  drugs  from  the 
digestive  canal  and  subcutaneous  tissue  is  impaired.  Saline 
infusions  greatly  dilute  the  blood — and,  therefore,  poisons 
in  the  blood — in  toxaemia,  while  they  increase  the  activity 
of  the  kidneys  and  elimination  of  toxins.  The  intrinsic  heat 
of  the  injections  is  thought  to  stimulate  antitoxin  formation, 
and  the  restoration  of  vascular  tension  is  believed  to  assist 
the  natural  bodily  resistance  of  the  patient. 

A  great  variety  of  disorders  have  been  treated  success- 
fully in  human  medicine  with  saline  infusions,  on  this  basis, 
including :  septicaemia,  pneumonia,  uraemia,  diabetic  coma, 
purpura  haemorrhagica,  tetanus,  ulcerative  endocarditis, 
pyelitis ;  acute  alcohol,  ether,  chloroform,  carbonic  monoxide, 
arsenic  and  mushroom  poisoning;  and  toxaemias  resulting 
from  acute  infectious  disorders.  The  same  treatment  might 
be  applied  to  haemoglobinaemia  and  other  toxaemias  peculiar 
to  the  domestic  animals.  Venesection  for  the  purpose  of 
removing  the  poisoned  blood  should,  in  most  cases,  be 
resorted  to  prior  to  practising  saline  injection  in  the 
toxaemias.  Excluding  shock  and  haemorrhage,  where  heat 
is  invaluable,  saline  infusions  are  generally  given  at  the 
temperature  of  103°  F.  by  the  rectum,  under  the  skin,  or 
into  a  vein. 


INDEX   OF  DISEASES  AND   REMEDIAL 
MEASURES: 


Abortion,  accidental  and  epizo- 
otic in  cows  and  ewes. 
Isolate  and  disinfect,  201. 
Disinfect  premises,  693. 
Empty  uterus. 

Antiseptic  vaginal  injections. 
Lysol,  316. 
Creolin,  315. 
Carbolic  acid,  311. 
Corrosive  sublimate,  201. 
Ergot,  603. 


Iodine,  231. 

Iodoform,  237. 

Poultices,  682. 

Rhigolene,  330. 

Cocaine,  410. 

Potassium  permanganate,  191. 

Paracentesis. 

Cantharides,  615,  671. 


ACARi  or  Mites. 
Scab. 
Parasiticides,  6 


See  Mange  and 


Actinomycosis. 
Excise. 

Potassium  iodide,  234. 
Iodine,  312. 
Carbolic  acid,  312. 
Good  food  and  tonics. 

Acne. 
Cleanse  with  soap  and  water. 
Prevent  chafing. 
Sulphur,  241. 
Arsenic,  211. 
Phosphorus,  231. 
705 


After-Pains. 
Remove    clots  or  placental  re- 
mains. 
Opium,  348. 
Morphine,  348. 

Aged  Animals,  destruction  of. 
Chloroform,  290. 
Bullet,  290. 

Amaurosis. 
Blister  about  orbit.  • 
Strychnine,  387. 

Ammenorrhcea.     Sterility. 
Full  or  restricted  diet. 
Tonics  and  emmenagogues,  58. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  480. 
Myrrh,  501. 
Oil  of  savine,  520. 
Cantharides,  617. 
Aloes,  543. 

Anemia. 

Full  dier,  659. 

Fresh  air. 

Exercise. 

Remove  primary  cause. 

Iron,  187. 

Arsenic,  211. 

Quinine,  464. 

Gentian,  528. 

Strychnine,  387. 

Copper  sulphate,  175. 

Calcium  phosphate,  151. 

Cod  liver  oil,  627. 

Myrrh,  501. 

Clip  horses  with  thick  coats. 


706 


INDEX  OF  DISEASES   AND   REMEDIAL  MEASURES 


Angina.     See  Phalangitis,  Laryn- 
gitis. 

Anorexia.    See  Appetite,  loss  of. 

Anthrax.    Charbon. 
Corrosive  sublimate,  201. 
Ipecac,  452. 

Destroy  or  isolate  animals. 
Disinfect    premises,    discharges 
and  dead  bodies,  693. 

Apoplexy,  cerebral,  parturient. 

Ice  to  poll. 

Ergot,  603. 

Venesection,  697. 

Bandage  legs. 

Eserine,  395. 

Croton  oil,  556. 

Colocynth,  561. 

Veratrum  viride,  448. 

Oil  of  turpentine,  480. 

Change  patient's  position  every 
few  hours. 

Avoid  drenches  if  animal  un- 
conscious. 

Empty  bladder. 

Stimulants,  if  collapse. 

Appetite,  loss  of. 
Gentian,  528. 
Cinchona,  464. 
Quinine,  464. 
Quassia,  530. 
Cascarilla,  531. 
Calumba,  532. 
Taraxacum,  534. 
Hydrastis,  536. 
Hydrastine,  536. 
Hydrastin,  536. 
Calamus,  538. 
Capsicum,  502. 

Aptha.    See  Stomatitis, 

Arthritis. 
Irrigation,  679. 
Iodine,  231. 


Arthritis  {continued). 
Oil  of  turpentine,  478. 
Tartar  emetic,  216. 
Burgundy  pitch,  482. 
Calomel,  204. 
Corrosive  sublimate,  202. 
Red  mercuric  iodide,  204. 
Cantharides,  671. 
Rest. 

AsCARiDES.     See  Worms. 
Anthelmintics,  68. 

Ascites.    See  Dropsies, 

Asthma  in  Dogs. 
Bromides,  228. 
Nitrites,  295. 
Chloral,  300. 
Belladonna,  365. 
Arsenic,  211. 
Eserine,  395. 


Asthma  in  Horses. 
Wind. 


See  Broken 


AzoTURiA.  See  Hcem^glohincemia. 

Balanitis. 

Cleanse. 

Urethral  injection,  1  per  cent, 
solution  of  zinc  sulphate  and 
lead  acetate,  equal  parts. 

Hydrastis,  537. 

Barrenness,  Sterility.    See  Am- 
menorrhcea. 
Aphrodisiacs    and    emmenago- 
gues,  57,  58. 

Bites. 
Of  rabid  dogs,  nitric  acid,  255. 
Of  insects,  ammonia,  139. 
Of  snakes,  ammonia,   139  ;    po- 
tassa,  119. 

Bladder,  irritable. 
Belladonna,  365. 
Hyoscyamus,  369. 


INDEX  OP  DISEASES   AND   REMEDIAL  MEASURES 


707 


Bladder,  irritable  (ccntinued). 

Potassium  citrate,  121. 

Potassium  acetate,  121. 

Spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  296. 

Camphor,  524. 

Buchu,  517. 

Salol,  471. 

Urotropin,  321. 

Rest. 

Hot  enemata. 

Remove  smegma,  calculi  and 
other  sources  of  reflex  irrita- 
tion. 

Blepharospasm.     * 
Atropine,  363. 

Bleeding.    See  HoemorrJiage, 

Boa  Spavin.    See  Arthritis, 
Irrigation,  679. 
Rest. 

High-heeled  shoe. 
Cantharides,  615. 

Boils. 
Iodine,  287. 
Collodion.  611. 
Icthyol,  629. 
•Carbolic  acid,  311. 
Menthol,  506. 
Iodoform,  237. 
Glutol,  321. 
Phosphorus,  221. 
Poultices,  682. 
Paracentesis. 

BoTS.    Larvae  of  Oestrus  Equi, 
Carbon  disulphide,  261. 
Chloroform,  68. 
Anthelmintics,  68. 
Green  fodder. 
Cathartics. 

Break  Down. 
Cautery,  670. 

Broken  Knees. 
Cold,  675. 


Broken  Wind. 
Carron  oil,  149,  544. 
Arsenic,  211. 
Strychnine,  386. 
Veratrine,  447. 
Restrict  water,  114. 
Concentrated  diet. 
Linseed  meal,  584. 
Cod  liver  oil,  628. 

Bronchitis,  Acute  and  Chronic. 
Inhalations,  47. 
Mustard,  493,  669. 
Solution  of  ammonium  acetate, 

143. 
Spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  295. 
Nitrites,  295. 
Belladonna,  364,  365. 
Strychnine,  386. 
Digitalis,  427. 
Strophanthus,  431. 
Squill,  434. 
Dover's  powder,  451. 
Opium,  350. 
Codeine,  346. 
Heroin,  337. 

Sodium  bicarbonate,  130. 
Potassium  bicarbonate  and  cit- 
rate, 122. 
Ammonium  chloride,  142. 
Ammonium  carbonate,  141. 
Aconite,  439. 
Quinine,  465, 
Potassium  iodide,  234. 
Arsenic,  211. 
Cod  liver  oil,  615. 
Linseed  tea,  585. 
Linseed  oil,  544. 
Olive  oil,  577. 
Tar,  485. 
Benzoin,  491. 
Eucalyptol,  497. 
Ipecac,  451. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  479. 
Resin,  482. 
Balsam  of  Peru,  488. 


708 


INDEX  OP  DISEASES  AND   REMEDIAL  MEASURES 


Bronchitis,  Acute   and   Chronic 
(continued) . 
Balsam  of  Toln,  488. 
Myrrh,  501. 
Asafetida,  514. 
Ammoniacum,  516. 
Buchu,  517. 

Compound  spirit  of  juniper,  518. 
Camphor,  524. 
Sulphur,  241. 

Sulphurous  anhydride,  242. 
Alum,  159. 
Tannic  acid,  567. 
Eserine,  395. 
Cantharides,  615. 

Bruises. 
Fomentations,  684. 
Priessnitz  poultice,  678. 
Refrigerant  mixtures,  679. 
Lead  acetate,  165. 
Laudanum,  165. 
Alcohol,  272. 
Arnica,  499. 
Camphor  liniment,  523. 
Hamamelis,  575. 
Icthyol,  629. 
Soap  liniment,  579. 
Stimulating  liniments,  670. 
Olive  oil,  577. 

Burns. 
Aristol,  149. 
Carron  oil,  149. 
Boroglyceride,  258. 
Glycerite  of  carbolic  a(Hd,  313. 
Iodoform,  237. 
Salicylic  acid,  470. 
Sodium  bicarbonate,  130. 
Chalk,  147. 
Menthol,  506. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  478. 
Chlorinated  lime,  225. 
Chlorinated  soda,  225. 
Moist  heat,  680. 
Stimulants. 
Good  food. 


Bursitis. 
Ice,  675. 
Irrigations,  679. 
Injections  of  iodine,  231, 
Injections  of  carbolic  acid,  311, 
Red  mercuric  iodide,  204. 
Cantharides,  615. 

Calculi,  biliary.    See  ColiCy  Oall 
Stones. 

Calculi,  intestinal. 
Enemata. 

Rectal  manipulation. 
Anodynes.     See  Colic. 
Eserine,  395. 

Calculi,  renal,  vesical. 
Hot  enemata  for  pain,  684. 
Enemata,  30. 
Morphine,  347. 
Potassium  acetate  and  citrate, 

121. 
Lithium  salts,  145. 
Ammonium  and  sodiimi  benzo- 

ate,  489. 
Hydrochloric  or  sulphuric  acid 

for  horses. 

Canker  of  Ear.    See  Otorrhoea. 

Chapped   Elbow,    Hock,   Knee. 
See  Bursitis. 

Catarrh.      See  Coryza,   Ozoena, 

Cerebral    Hemorrhage.       See 
Apoplexy. 

Cerebritis.    See  Encephalitis. 

Cerebro-Spinal  Meningitis. 
Ice  to  head,  675. 
Ergot,  364,  603. 
Belladonna,  364. 
Aloes,  542. 
Catheterize. 
Strychnine,  387. 
Cantharides,  615. 


INDEX  OF  DISEASES  AND   REMEDIAL   MEASURES 


709 


Chafing.     See  Intertrigo. 

Chorea. 
Iron,  189. 
Arsenic,  211. 
Cod  Uver  oil,  628. 
Antipyretics,  306. 
Bromides,  228. 
Chloral,  300. 
Hyoscyamus,  369. 
Cannabis  indica,  372. 
Anaesthetics,  290. 
Eserine,  395. 
Gelsemium,  398. 
Conium,  406. 
Valerian,  513. 
Zinc  valerianate,  513. 
Camphor,  524. 
Strychnine,  387. 
Quinine,  464. 
Asafetida,  514. 
Anthelmintics  if  due  to  worms, 

68. 
Full  diet. 

Cold,  exposure  to. 
Mustard,  689. 
Alcohol,  273. 

Colic. 
Opium,  347. 
Morphine,  347. 
Atropine,  364. 
Chloral,  300. 
Chloroform,  281. 
Ether,  277. 
Cannabis  indica,  372. 
Hyoscyamus,  369. 
Capsicum  and  ammonium  car- 
bonate, 502. 
Oil  of  peppermint,  506. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  479,  670. 
Aconite,  439. 
Asafetida,  514. 
Tobacco,  402. 
Aloes,  542. 
Barium  chloride,  152. 


Colic  {continued). 
Arecoline,  591. 
Eserine,  394. 
Enemata,  153. 
Mustard,  494. 
Stupes,  683. 
Hot  injections.  681. 

Coma. 
Ice  to  head,  675. 
Cold  douche,  678. 
Mustard  and  bandaging  on 

669. 
Venesection,  697. 
Purgatives,  28. 
Stimulants,  in  collapse. 

Congestion  of  Lungs. 
Mustard,  493,  669.       • 
Nitrites,  290. 
Veratrum  viride,  443. 
Venesection,  697. 
Aconite,  439. 

Conjunctivitis. 
Cold  compresses. 
Zinc  sulphate,  173. 
Boric  acid,  258. 
Cocaine,  413. 
Silver  nitrate,  168. 
Protargol,  169. 
Alum,  159. 
Copper  sulphate,  175. 
Mercuric  oxides,  200. 
Citrine  ointment,  205. 
Creolin,  315. 
Lysol,  316. 

Corrosive  sublimate,  202. 
Scarification,  699. 

Constipation. 

Diet,  657. 
Enemata,  30,  31. 
Manual  evacuation,  559. 
Abdominal  massage,  559. 
Exercise. 


710 


INDEX  OF  DISEASES  AND  REMEDIAL  MEASURES 


Constipation  (continued). 

Horse — 

Aloes,  542. 

Linseed  oil,  544. 

Calomel,  204. 

Epsom  salts,  152. 
Cattle —     , 

Epsom  salts,  152. 

Linseed  oil,  544. 

Calomel,  204. 
Foals  and  Calves — 

CaiTon  oil,  544. 

Gregory's  powder,  550. 

Dogs^ 
Castor  oil,  546. 
Olive  oil,  577. 

Compound  carthartic  pill,  568. 
Compound  liquorice  powder, 

553. 
Cascara  sagrada,  548. 
Syrup  of  purging  buckthorn, 

548. 
Calomel,  204. 
Puppies — 
Suppositories — 

Soap. 

Glycerin. 
Phillips'  milk  of  magnesia. 

Birds — 
Tincture  of  rhubarb,  551. 

Buckthorn,  548. 
Rhubarb,  550. 
Senna,  553. 
Croton  oil,  556. 
Jalap,  558. 
Gamboge,  560. 
Colocynth,  661. 
Elaterin,  561. 
Podophyllin,  563. 
Arecoline,  591. 
Ox  Gall,  625. 
Eserine,  394. 
Pilocarpine,  420. 


Constipation  (continued). 
Barium  chloride,  152. 
Veratrine,  447. 
Strychnine,  388,  387. 
Glycerin,  582. 
Belladonna,  388,  365. 
Hyoscyamus,  369. 
Sulphur,  241. 
Myrrh,  501. 
Asafetida,  514. 

Convalescence. 
Diet,  659. 
Alcohol,  272. 
Bitters,  272. 

Strychnme,  387. 

Gentian,  528. 

Quinine,  465. 

Calumba,  532. 

Quassia,  530. 

Hydrastin,  536. 
Valerian,  513. 
Pepsin,  62S. 
Cod  liver  oil,  62a 

Convulsions. 
Anaesthetics,  290. 
Chloral,  300. 
Bromides,  228. 
Antipyretics,  306. 
Valerian,  513. 
Copper  sulphate,  175. 
Laxatives. 
Warm  bath. 

Remove  worms  or  source  of  irri- 
tation in  digestive  canal. 

Corneal  Opacities  and  Ulcers. 
See  Keratitis. 
Calomel,  202. 

CORYZA. 

Inhalations,  47. 

Spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  295. 

Aconite,  439. 

Dover's  powder,  451. 

Opium,  350. 


INDEX   OF   DISEASES  AND   RExMEDIAL   MEASURES 


711 


CORYZA  (continued). 
Cocaine,  413. 
Menthol,  506. 
Quinine,  564. 
Arsenic,  210. 
Bismuth,  178. 
Linseed  oil,  544. 

Cough. 
Inhalations,  47. 
Opium,  349. 
Heroin,  337. 
Codeine,  346. 
Bella  ionna,  364. 
Phenacetin,  306. 
Chloroform,  281. 
Chloral,  300. 
Wild  cherry,  328. 
Prussia  acid,  327. 
Cannabis  indica,  373. 
Bromides,  228. 
Gelsemium,  398. 
Tar,  485. 

Balsam  of  Tolu,  88. 
Arsenic,  210. 
Camphor,  524. 
Mustard,  669. 

Cracks  or  Fissures,  See  Fissures. 

Cramps. 

Atropine,  364. 
Belladonna,  364. 

Croup.    See  Laryngitis, 

Curb. 
Cold,  675. 
Cautery,  670. 

Cystitis. 
Spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  296. 
Belladonna,  365. 
Hyoscyamus,  369. 
Aconite,  296. 

Potassium  citrate  &  acetate,  296. 
Urotropin,  321. 
Buchu,  517. 


Cystitis  (continued). 
Oil  of  juniper,  518. 
Linseed  tea,  585. 
Acacia,  580. 
Cantharides,  617, 
Boric  acid,  258. 
Creolin,  315. 
Lysol,  316. 
Balsam  of  Tolu,  488« 
Balsam  of  Peru,  488. 
Salol,  471. 

Oil  of  turpentine,  480, 
Benzoates,  491. 
Eucalyptol,  497. 
Thymol,  526. 
Myrrh,  501. 
Rest. 

Debility. 
Alcohol,  272. 
Iron,  187. 
Arsenic,  211. 
Strychnine,  387. 
Quinine,  464. 
Calcium  phosphate,  151. 
Cod  liver  oil,  627. 
Linseed  meal,  584. 
Cotton-seed  meal,  584. 
Phosphorus,  221. 
Gentian,  528. 
Calumba,  532. 
Cardamon,  510. 
Coriander,  510. 
Fennel,  510. 
Fenugreek,  510. 
Ginger,  510. 

Decubitus. 
Chlorinated  lime,  325, 
Aristol,  238. 

Delirium. 
Hyoscyamus,  369. 
Hyoscine,  369. 

Diabetes  Insipidus. 
Iodine,  232. 
Gallic  acid,  568. 


712 


INDEX  OF  DISEASES  AND  REMEDIAL   MEASURES 


Diabetes  Insipidus  {continued). 
Valerian,  513. 
Avoid  bad  fodder. 

Diabetes  Mellitus.    See  Glycos- 
uria. 

Diaphragmatic  Spasm,  Hiccough 
See  "  Thumps.'* 

Diarrhcea. 
Laxatives — 

Linseed  oil,  544. 

Castor  oil,  546. 

Rhubarb,  550. 

Gray  powder,  199. 

Calomel,  203. 

Carron  oil,  149. 

Magnesium  sulphate,  153. 
Diet  and  restriction  of  water, 

657,  658. 
Saline  infusions,  703. 
Enemata,  30. 
Starch,  609. 
Rest. 

Opium,  348. 
Astringents. 
Chalk,  147. 

Aluminum  hydroxide,  159. 
Silver  nitrate,  168. 
Acids,  255. 
Lead  acetate,  165. 
Bismuth,  178. 
Tannic  acid,  567. 
Bjrameria,  573. 
Hsematoxylon,  574. 
Hamamelis,  575. 
White  oak,  569. 
Catechu,  571. 
Kino,  572. 
Ergot,  603. 
Antiseptics — 

Carbolic  acid,  313. 

Creosote,  314. 

Boric  acid,  258* 

Charcoal,  260. 

Naphtalene,  318. 


Diarrhcea  (continued) . 
Antiseptics — 

Salol,  471. 

Oil  of  turpentine,  479. 

Tar,  485. 

Benzoates,  490. 
Arsenic,  210. 
Ipecac,  452. 
Syrup  of  lime,  149. 
Buchu,  517. 
Camphor,  524. 

Diphtheria. 
Isolate  and  disinfect  discharges. 
Antitoxin  when  due  to  Klebs- 

Loeffler  bacillus. 
Irrigate  throat  with  normal  salt 

solution. 
Alcohol. 
Milk  and  eggs. 
Disinfect  premises,  693. 

Disinfection. 
Disinfectants,  686,  687,  689. 
Practical  disinfection,  693. 
Chlorine,  223. 
Sulphur,  241. 
Carbolic  acid,  313. 
Creosote,  314. 
Formaldehyde,  320,  321. 
Formalin,  320,  321. 

Dislocations. 
Anaesthetics,  290. 
Blistering,  671. 

Distemper,  Canine. 
Isolate. 
Country  air. 
Good  food. 
Quinine,  464. 
Iron,  189. 
Strychnine,  387. 
Coffee,  377. 
Caffeine,  377. 
Camphor,  524. 
Eucalyptol,  497. 


INDEX  OF  DISEASES   AND   REMEDIAL  MEASURES 


713 


Distemper,  Canine. 
Chloral,  300. 
Phenacetin,  305. 
Belladonna,  364. 
Disinfect  premises,  698, 

Dropsy,  Cardiac,  Hepatic,  Renal. 
Digitalis,  204,  428. 
Squill,  434. 
Caffeine,  377. 
Strophanthus,  431. 
Potassium  iodide,  234. 
Pilocarpine,  420. 
Calomel,  434. 
Jalap,  558. 
Colocynth,  561. 
Colchicum,  608. 
Sugar  of  milk,  621. 
Diet,  659. 

Dysentery. 
Isolate. 
Calomel,  203. 
Magnesium  sulphate,  153. 
Linseed  oil,  542. 
Castor  oil,  546. 
Rhubarb,  550. 
Ipecac,  452. 
Opium,  348. 
Lead  acetate,  165. 
Benzoates,  490. 
Silver  nitrate,  168. 
Creolin,  315. 
Lysol,  316. 
Naphtalin,  318. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  479. 
Buchu,  517. 
White  Oak,  569. 
Catechu,  571. 
Kino,  572.' 
Starch,  609. 
Tannic  acid,  517. 
Haematoxylon,  575. 
Arsenic,  210. 

Disinfect     premises     and     dis- 
charges, 693. 


Dysentery  {continued). 
Feeding,  657,  658. 

Dyspepsia.     See  Indigestion. 

Dyspncea.    See  Laryngitis,  Diph- 
theria and  CJiest  Diseases, 
Nitroglycerin,  295. 
Nitrites,  295. 
Inhalations,  47. 
Counter-irritation . 
Tracheotomy. 

Eclampsia.    See  Convulsions, 

Eczema. 
Tar,  484. 
Oil  of  tar,  486. 
Oil  of  cade,  486. 
Icthyol,  629. 
Zinc  ointment,  173. 
Sulphurated  potash,  244. 
Sulphur,  241. 
Yellow  wash,  202. 
Black  wash,  202. 
Iodine,  231. 
Boric  acid,  258. 
Chalk,  147. 
Lead  acetate,  165. 
Zinc  sulphate,  173. 
Bismuth  subnitrate,  178. 
White  precipitate  ointment,  305, 
Citrine  ointment,  205. 
Carbolic  acid,  312. 
Salicylic  acid,  470. 
Balsam  of  Peru,  4g7. 
Oleate  of  Mercury,  200. 
Blue  ointment,  20i). 
Thymol,  526. 
Chrysarobin,  551. 
Glycerite  of  tannin,  567. 
Hamamelis,  576. 
Glycerite  of  starch,  582. 
Pilocarpine,  420. 
Phosphorus,  221. 
Cod  liver  oil,  628. 
Diet,  657. 


714 


INDEX  OV  DISEASES   AND   REMEDIAL   MEASURES 


Emphysema.    See  Broken  Wind. 
Arsenic,  211. 
Styrchnine,  386. 
Digitalis,  427. 
Strophanthus,  431. 

Encephalitis. 

Ice  on  head,  675. 
.  Venesection,  697. 
Ergot,  603. 
Croton  oil,  556. 
Veratrum  viride,  443. 
Eserine,  395. 
Pilocarpine,  420. 
Aloes,  542. 
Stimulants. 
Cantharides,  615. 

Endocarditis.      See  also  Bhev^ 
matism. 
Aconite,  440. 
Digitalis,  428. 
Strophanthus,  431. 
Potassium  iodide,  334. 

Enteritis. 
Opium,  349. 
Atropine,  364. 
Aconite,  439. 
Veratrum  viride,  444. 
Mustard,  494. 
Castor  oil,  546. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  479. 

Epilepsy.    See  Convulsions. 

Epistaxis. 
Pacls:  nostril  with  gauze. 
Ice  water  or  ice  bag  on  forehead. 
Opium,  349. 
Ergot,  603. 
Alum,  159. 
Krameria,  573. 

Erysipelas. 
Icthyol,  629. 
Iodine,  231. 


Erysipelas  (continued). 
Carbolic  acid,  311. 
Creosote,  314. 
Quinine,  465. 
Alcohol. 

Tincture  of  ferric  chloride. 
Milk  and  eggs. 

Isolate  and  disinfect  premises^ 
693. 

Erythema. 
Zinc  oxide,  173. 
Lead  acetate,  165. 
Calamine,  173. 
Chalk,  147. 
Boric  acid,  258. 
Tar,  484. 
Camphor,  523. 
Vaseline,  330. 
Hamamelis,  576. 

Eye,  foreign  bodies  in. 
Cocaine,  413. 

Exostoses.  See  Spavin,  Ring* 
hone,  Splint,  etc. 

Fainting.    See  Syncope. 

Fardel  Bound.  Inspection  of  Srd 
Stomach,  Gastritis  of  Rumif 
nants. 

Strychnine,  S87. 

Veratrine,  447. 

Arecoline,  591. 

Epsom  salts,  152. 

Linseed  oil,  544. 

Fever. 
Spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  295. 
Solution  of  ammonium  acetate^ 

143. 
Magnesium  sulphate,  153. 
Aconite,  439. 
Acetanilid,  305, 
Phenacetin,  305. 
Antipyrin,  305, 


INDEX  OF  DISEASES   AND   REMEDIAL  MEASURES 


715 


Fever  (continued). 
Quinine,  465. 
Alcohol,  272. 
Salicylic  acid,  471. 
Diet,  660. 
Refrigerants,  680. 
Cold  applications,  675-8, 
Cold  drinks,  675. 
Cold  enemata,  679, 
Cool  air. 

Fissure. 
Of  Rectum- 
Belladonna,  362,  365. 

Iodoform,  236. 

Tannic  acid,  567. 
Of  Teats— ^ 

Silver  nitrate,  168. 

Balsam  of  Peru,  487. 

Glycerite  of  tannin,  567. 

Collodion,  611. 

Fistula  of  Withers,  Poll,  Lat- 
eral Cartilages,  etc. 
Corrosive  sublimate,  201. 
Iodine,  231. 
Arsenic,  209. 
Carbolic  acid,  311. 
Creosote,  314. 

Flatulence,    Tympanites.      See 
Indigestion  and  Colic. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  479. 
Sodium  bicarbonate,  130. 
Terebene,  480. 
Chloroform,  281. 
Oil  of  peppermint,  506. 
Charcoal,  260. 
Styrchnine,  387. 
Ammonium  carbonate,  502. 
Capsicum,  502. 
Eserine,  394.. 
Naphtalin,  318. 
Bismuth,  178. 
Resorcin,  319. 
Valerian,  513. 


Flatulence,    Tympanites. 
(continued) . 
Asafetida,  514. 
Cascarilla,  531. 
Calamus,  538. 
Glycerin,  582. 

Fleas  (Pulex  irritans). 
Oil  of  anise,  508. 
Pyrethrum,  598. 
Carbolic  soap. 
Tobacco,  402. 

Foot  Rot  in  Sheep. 
Glycerite  of  carbolic  acid,  812. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  478. 
Tar,  485. 

Founder.     See  Laminitis, 

Fractures. 
Anaesthetics,  290. 
Calcium  phosphate,  149. 
Starch  bandages,  609. 

Fracture  of  Jaw. 
Rectal  feeding,  664. 

Fragilitas   Ossium.     See  OsteO' 
malacia. 

Frontal  Sinus,  inflammation  of. 
Iodoform,  236. 

Frost    Bite,     Dermatitis    Con- 
gelationis. 
Icthyol,  629. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  478. 
Glycerite  of  tannin,  567. 

"Galls."    See  Ulcers,  Wounds. 

Gall  Stones.    See  Colic. 
Calomel,  204. 
Salines,  152. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  479. 
Exercise. 


716 


INDEX  OF  DISEASES  AND  REMEDIAL  MEASURES 


Gangrene. 
Remove  dead  tissue  with  knife. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  478. 
Alcohol. 
Good  food. 

Garget.    See  Mammitis, 

Gastritis. 
Opium,  348. 
Bismuth,  178. 
Solution  of  lime,  149. 
Ipecac,  451. 
Prussic  acid,  327. 
Diet,  657,  664. 
Nutritive  enemata,  664, 
Ice  by  mouth. 

Gastroenteritis,  Acute.      Chro- 
nic, see  Indigestion, 
Opium,  348. 
Linseed  tea,  584. 
Acacia,  586. 
Althaea,  587. 
Diet,  657,  658. 

Gastboduodenitis.  See  Jaundice. 

Glandular  Swellings. 
Iodine,  231. 

Red  mercuric  iodide,  204. 
Mercury,  200. 
Mercuric  oxides,  200. 
Icthyol,  629. 
Cantharides,  671. 
Poultices,  682. 
Cod  liver  oil,  628. 

Glaucoma. 

Physostigmine,  394 

Granular  Lids. 
Alum,  159. 
Copper  sulphate,  175. 

Glossitis. 
Scarification,  699. 


Glycosuria. 
Glycerin,  582. 

Granulations.    See  Wounds, 

Grease. 
Tar,  484. 
Oil  of  cade,  484. 

Griping  op  Cathartics. 
Ginger,  503. 
Belladonna,  365. 
Hyoscyamus,  369. 
Oil  of  peppermint,  506. 

Growths,    See  Warts, 

H-aMATEMESIS. 

Opium,  349. 

Ergot,  603. 

Ice  by  mouth. 

Heat,  603. 

Oil  of  turpentine,  480. 

Silver  nitrate,  168. 

Protargol,  169. 

Tannic  acid,  567. 

Hamamelis,  575. 

Rest. 

Diet,  658. 

H^MOGLOBIN^MIA. 

Aloes,  542. 

Magnesium  sulphate,  542. 
Sodium  bicarbonate,  130, 
Colchicum,  608. 
Diet,  659. 

Prophylaxis,  exercise. 
Light  feeding. 

HAEMOPTYSIS. 

Opium,  349. 
Ergot,  603. 
Heat  to  spine,  683. 
Digitalis,  428. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  480. 
Gallic  acid,  568. 
Hamamelis,  575. 
1       Best. 


INDEX   OF  DISEASES   AND   REMEDIAL   MEASURES 


717 


HEMORRHAGES. 

Ice,  675. 

Opium,  349. 

Ergot,  603. 

Saline  infusion,  703. 

Antipyrin;  305. 

Cocaine,  413. 

Ferric  salts,  187. 

Oil  of  turpentine,  480. 

Acids,  255. 

Kino,  572. 

Alcohol,  272. 

Hemorrhage,  Post  Partmn. 
Remove  after-birth. 
Repair  tears. 
Ergot,  603. 

Hot  vaginal  injections,  684. 
Pack  uterus  with  gauze. 
Saline  infusion,  703. 

Hemorrhoids.     See  Piles. 

Heart  Failure,    See  Syncope. 

Heart,  Fatty. 
Diet,  659,  660-3. 
Strychnine,  386. 
Digitalis,  427. 

Heart,  Hypertrophied. 
Potassium  iodide,  234. 
Aconite,  428,  440. 
Digitalis,  428. 

Heart,  Palpitation  of. 
Aconite,  440. 
Digitalis,  428. 
Strophanthus,  431. 
Bromides,  228. 
Belladonna,  365. 
Camphor,  524. 

Heart,  Valvular  Disease  of. 
Digitalis,  427. 
Strophanthus,  431. 
Strychnine,  386. 
Diet,  659. 


Heat  Stroke.     See  Sun  Stroke. 

Heaves.    See  Broken  Wind^  Em' 
physema.  Asthma. 

Hernia. 

Anaesthetics,  289. 
Cantharides,  616. 

Herpes. 

Lead  acetate,  165. 

Hydrophobia.    See  Rabies. 

Hypertrophy   of   Heart.      See 
Heart. 

Hysteria. 
Bromides,  228. 
Valerian,  513. 
Asafetida,  514. 
Camphor,  524. 

Impaction  of  Colon. 
Magnesium  sulphate,  153. 
Linseed  oil,  544. 
Castor  oil,  546. 
Atropine,  365. 
Strychnine,  387. 
Hyoscyamus,  369. 
Eserine,  394. 

Incontinence  of  UbisIE. 
Belladonna,  365. 
Hyoscyamus,  369. 
Strychnine,  387. 
Cantharides,  617. 

Indigestion,  Dyspepsia,  Chronic 
Gastro-intestinal  Catarrh. 
Diet,  657. 
Aloes,  542. 
Linseed  oil,  544. 
Carron  oil,  149. 
Castor  oil,  546. 
Arecoline,  591. 
Rhubarb,  550. 
Eserine,  395. 
Acids,  255. 
Sodium  Bicarbonate,  130, 


718 


INDEX   OF  DISEASES   AND   REMEDIAL   M::::-SUIIES 


Indigestion,  etc.  (continued). 
Arsenic,  210. 
Strychnine,  387. 
Capsicum,  502. 
Ginger,  503. 
Gentian,  528. 
Hydrastin,  536. 
Quinine,  464. 
Pepsin,  623. 
Pancreatin,  624. 
Papain,  62b. 
Hydrochloric  acid,  255, 
Sulphurous  acid,  243. 
Carbolic  acid,  313. 
Creosote,  314. 

Salicylic  acid  and  salol,  471, 
Tartar  emetic,  217. 
Hydrogen  dioxide,  116. 
Charcoal,  260. 
Ammonium  chloride,  142. 
Anise,  510. 
Cardamom,  .510 
Coriander,  510. 
Fennel,  510. 
Fenugreek,  510. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  479. 
Benzoic  acid,  490. 
Eucalyptol,  498. 
Calumba,  532. 
Quassia,  530. 
Cascarilla,  531. 
Haematoxylon,  575. 

Indurations. 

Priessnitz  poultice,  677. 
Cantharides,  615. 

Inflammation,       Chronic       and 
Acute.     See  Fever. 
Laxatives,  544. 
Ice,  675. 

Venesection,  696. 
Scarification,  699. 
Irrigation,  6 
Counter-jrritants,  670. 
Poultices,  677 
Diet,  6o0. 


Inflammation  (continued). 
Aconite,  439. 
Opium,  349. 
Veratruni  viride,  443. 
Mercury,  200. 
Tartar  emetic,  217.. 
Sodium  bicarbonate,  130, 
Iodine,  231. 

Influenza. 
Inhalations,  47. 
Solution  of  ammonium  acetate, 

143. 
Spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  295. 
Potassium  nitrate,  124. 
Alcohol,  272. 
Compound    spirit    of     juniper, 

gin,  518. 
Quinine,  465 
Strychnine,  386,  387, 
Coffee,  377. 
Caffeine,  377. 
Belladonna,  364. 
Eucalyptol,  497. 
Camphor,  524. 
Linseed  oil,  544. 
Disinfection,  693. 

Intertrigo.     See  Erythema. 

Intestinal  Hemorrhage. 
Opium. 
Ergot,  603. 
Tannic  acid,  567. 
Hamamelis,  575. 
Diet,  658. 

Intestinal      Indigestion       and 
Catarrh.    See  Indigestion. 

Intestinal     Obstruction.       See 
Intussusception  and  Twist. 

Intussusception. 
Opium,  349. 
Enemata,  30. 
Position,  394. 
Abdominal  section. 
Eserine,  394. 


INDEX    OF  DISEASES   AND   REMEDIAL   MEASURES 


719 


Iritis. 

Atropine,  363. 
Calomel,  204. 
Eserine,  394. 

Itching.     See  Pruritus, 

Jaundice. 

Magnesium  sulphate,  154. 

Calomel,  203. 

Sodium  phosphate,  134. 

Nitrohydrochloric  acid,  203. 

Acids,  255. 

Aloes,  543. 

Hydrastis,  536. 

Podophyllin,  563. 

Enemata,  30. 

Diet,  658, 

Joints,  Inflammation  and  Swell- 
ing of.     See  Arthritis, 

Keratitis. 
Atropine,  363. 
Creolin,  315. 
Lysol,  316. 
Calomel,  202. 

Lameness. 
Cocaine,  411. 

Laminitis. 
Aconite,  439. 
Veratrum  viride,  443. 
Pilocarpine,  420. 
Venesection,  699. 
Poultices,  682. 
Local  bath,  678. 
Vesication,  671. 
Feeding  in,  657. 

Laryngitis. 
Inhalations,  47. 
Benzoin,  491. 
Priessnitz  poultice,  678. 
Ice  bag,  675. 
Mustard,  493. 
Cantharides,  615. 
Eed  mercuric  iodide,  204. 


Laryngitis  {continued). 
Stimulating  liniment,  670. 
Spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  295. 
Aconite,  439. 
Belladonna,  363-5. 
Dover's  powder,  451. 
Ipecac,  451. 
Iodine,  231. 
Potassium  iodide,  234. 
Sulphurous  anhydride,  242. 
Alum,  159. 
Tannic  acid,  567. 
Tar,  485. 
Silver  nitrate,  168. 

Leucorrhcea. 
Creolin,  315. 
Lysol,  316. 

Corrosive  sublimate,-  201, 
Alum,  159. 
Zinc  sulphate,  173. 
Chlorinated  soda,  223. 
Myrrh,  501. 

Potassium  permanganate,  191t 
Boric  acid,  258. 
Hydrastis,  537. 
Glycerite  of  tannin,  567. 
Gallic  acid,  568, 
Krameria,  573. 
Hsematoxylon,  575, 

Lice.     Pedicuu. 
Parasiticides,  69. 
Balsam  of  Peru,  487. 
Oil  of  anise,  508. 
Carbolic  acid,  312, 
Creosote,  314. 
Creolin,  315. 
Lysol,  316. 

Oil  of  turpentine,  478. 
Corrosive  sublimate,  201. 
Mercury   ointment   and    oleate, 

200. 
Staphisagria,  597. 

Lichen.     See  Eczema. 

LiTHiASis.    See  Calculi, 


720 


INDEX   OF   DISEASES   AND    REMEDIAL   MEASURES 


Lockjaw.     See  Tetanus. 

Luxations.     See  Dislocations, 

Lymphangitis. 
Aconite,  439* 
Colchicum,  608. 
Cold,  575. 
Venesection,  697. 

Mammitis. 

Belladonna,  362. 
Aconite,  439. 

Stimulating  liniments,  670. 
Venesection,  699. 

Mange.    Scabies.    Acariasis. 
Parasiticides,  69. 
Tar,  484, 
Oil  of  tar.  486. 
Oil  of  cade,  486. 
Balsam  of  Peru,  487, 
Sulphur,  240. 
Iodine,  231. 
Tobacco,  402. 
Carbolic  acid,  312. 
Creosote,  814. 
Naphtol,  317. 
Creolin,  315. 
Lysol,  316. 

Chlorinated  lime,  326. 
Blue  ointment,  200. 
Disinfection,  241. 

Mastitis.    See  Mammitis, 

Malaria. 
Quinine,  465. 
Aloes,  465. 
Calomel,  465. 

Meningitis. 
Ice,  675. 
Ergot,  603. 
Opium,  348. 
Calomel,  204. 
Corrosive  sublimate,  202. 
Pilocarpine,  420. 


Meningitis  (continued). 
Venesection,  697. 
Cantharides,  615,  671. 

Metritis.    Pelvic  Lymphangitis. 
Pelvic  Peritonitis. 
Removal  of  clots,  placental   or 

membranous  remains. 
Hot    antiseptic     vaginal    injec- 
tions, as 

Creolin,  315. 
Lysol,  315. 
Quinine,  465. 

Metrorrhagia. 
Ergot,  602. 
Hydrastis,  536. 
Cotton-root  bark,  604. 
Ice,  675. 

Hot  injections,  684. 
Ferric  chloride,  187. 
Hamamelis,  675. 
Digitalis,  428. 
Savine,  520. 
Gallic  acid,  568. 
Catechn,  571. 

Myosotis  (Interstitial).  Myalgia, 
Muscular  Rheumatism. 
Chloroform,  281. 
Oil  of  turi)entine,  478. 
Camphor  liniment,  524. 
Aconite,  439. 


Veratrine,  447. 
Quinine,  465. 
Salicylic  acid,  471. 
Salicylates,  471. 
Cod  liver  oil,  628. 

Nasal  Gleet.    See  Ozcma, 

Nephritis. 
Mustard,  467. 
Digitahs,  428. 
Strophanthus,  431. 
Buchu,  517. 


INDEX   OF   DISEASES   AND   REMEDIAL   MEASURES 


721 


Nephritis  {continued). 
Oil  of  juniper,  518. 
Linseed  tea,  585. 

Nervous  Exhaustion.     Neuras- 
thenia. 
Phosphorus,  221. 

Neuralgia. 
Opium,  348. 
Morphine,  348. 
Antipyrin,  305. 
Belladonna,  363. 
Gelsemium,  398. 
Coniura,  406. 
Aconitine,  439.' 
Aconite,  439. 
Menthol,  505. 

Obesity. 
Feeding  for,  660-3. 
Salt  in,  133. 
Pilocarpine,  420. 
Exercise. 

CEsTRUS  equi.     See  Bots, 

Opacity  op  Cornea.  See  Keratitis. 

Open  Joints. 
Asepsis. 

Ophthalmia.    See  Conjunctivitis. 

Osteomalacia,  Mollites  Ossium, 
Fragilitas  Ostium. 
Diet,  660. 

Calcium  phosphate,  151. 
Phosphorus,  221. 

Otitis  Media. 
Cantharides,  615. 

Otorrhcea,  Otitis  Externa. 
Boric  acid,  258. 
Zinc  sulphate,  173. 
Alum,  159. 

Potassium  permanganate,  191. 
Hydrastis,  537. 
Glycerite  of  tannin,  567. 
Tincture  of  iodine,  582. 


OxYURiDES.     See  Worms. 

Ozcena. 
Iodine,  231. 
Chlorinated  soda,  225. 
Bismuth  subnitrate,  178. 
Potassium  permanganate,  191. 
Boric  acid,  258. 
Copper  sulphate,  175. 
Arsenic,  210. 

Pain. 

Opium,  347. 
Morphine,  347. 
Codeine,  346. 
Heroin,  337. 
Chloral.  300. 
Cannabis  indica,  372. 
Acetanilid,  305. 
Gelsemium,  305. 
Antipyrin,  398. 
Phenacetin,  305. 

Palpitation.    See  Heart, 

Paralysis.      Paraplegia,  Hemi- 
plegia. 
Strychnine,  387. 
Cantharides,  615. 
Cold  douches,  678. 

Paralysis,  local. 
Strychnine,  387. 
Capsicum,  502. 

Parturient  Apoplexy.    See  ApO' 
plexy. 

Pericarditis. 

Cantharides,  615,  671. 
Potassium  iodide,  234. 
Calomel,  204. 
Aconite,  440. 
Digitalis,  428. 
Strophanthus,  431. 
Colchicum. 

Periostitis. 
Iodine,  231, 


722 


INDEX   OF  DISEASES   AND   REMEDIAL  MEASURES 


Periostitis  (continued) . 
Incision,  699. 
Red  mercuric  iodide,  204. 
Cantharides,  699. 

Pemtonitis. 
Opium,  349. 
Morphine,  349. 
Atropine,  364. 
Aconite,  439. 
Veratrum  viride,  444. 
Oil  of  turpentine  (stupes),  479, 

670. 
Mustard,  494. 
Alcohol. 

Pharyngitis.  , , 
Inhalations,  ^7. 
Belladonna,  363-5. 
Aconite,  439. 
Camphor,  524. 
Spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  296. 
Licorice,  583. 
Linseed  oil,  544. 
Acacia,  586. 

Solution  of  ferric  chloride,  187. 
Silver  nitrate,  168. 
Cantharides,  671. 
Cold  drinks,  679. 

Photophobia. 
Atropine,  363. 
Eserine,  394. 

Phrenitis.    See  Cerebritis, 

Phtheiriasis.     See  Lice, 

Piles. 
Magnesium  sulphate,  154. 
Sulphur,  241. 
Aloes,  543. 

Glycerite  of  tannin,  567, 
Hamamelis,  576. 
Ergot,  603. 
Cocaine,  413. 
Iodoform,  236. 
Acids,  255. 
Belladonna,  362, 


Pityriasis.     See  Eczema. 

Plethora. 
Diet,  657. 

Pleuritis. 
Opium,  350. 
Calomel,  204. 
Corrosive  sublimate,  202, 
liinseed  oil,  544. 
Wet  pack,  678. 
Venesection,  697. 
Aconite,  439. 
Mustard,  493,  669. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  479. 
Iodine,  231. 
Potassium  iodide,  234. 
Pilocarpine,  420. 
Digitalis,  428. 
Strophanthus,  431. 
Caffeine,  377. 
Gelsemium,  398. 
Salt,  133. 
Diet,  659. 
Cantharides,  671, 

Pneumonia. 
Venesection,  697. 
Mustard,  493. 
Wet  pack,  678. 
Nitrites,  295,  386. 
Potassium  nitrate,  124. 
Potassium  chlorate,  125, 
Quinine,  465. 
Antipyretics,  306. 
Opium,  350. 
Aconite,  439. 
Veratrum  viride,  443. 
Gelsemium,  398. 
Solution  of  ammonium  acetate^ 

143. 
Strychnine,  386. 
Digitalis,  427. 
Strophanthus,  431. 
Phosphorus,  221. 
Arsenic,  211. 


INDEX   OF  DISEASES   AND   BEMEDIAL   MEASURES 


723 


Poisoning.      For    Antidotes,    see 
Special  Drugs. 
Tannic  acid,  567. 
Charcoal,  260. 
Alum,  159. 
Zinc  sulphate,  174, 
Mustard,  494. 
Apomorphine,  352. 
Nitroglycerin,  295, 
Atropine,  364. 
Strychnine,  386. 
Camphor,  524. 
Olive  oil,  577. 
Soap,  580. 
Venesection,  697. 
Saline  infusion,  708, 

Poll  Evil.     See  Fistula, 

Polyuria.     See  Diabetes  Insipi- 
dus. 

Post  Partum  Hemorrhage,   See 
Metrorrhagia. 

Pregnancy. 
Linseed  oil,  544. 
Castor  oil,  546. 

Prolapse  of  Rectum. 
Tannic  acid,  567. 
Powdered    opium    and    nutgall 

ointment,  567. 
Ice,  675. 

Pruritus,  general,  and  of  anus 
and  vulva. 
Carbolic  acid,  258, 
Boric  acid,  258. 
Hamamelis,  576. 
Chloral,  300. 
Alcohol,  272. 
Prussic  acid,  "327. 
Corrosive  sublimate,  201. 
Tobacco,  142. 
Cocaine,  413. 
Salicylic  acid,  470. 
Potassium  bicarbonate,  121, 


Pruritus,  etc.  {continued). 
Tar,  484. 
Oil  of  tar,  484. 
Oil  of  cade,  486. 
Menthol,  505. 
Lime  water,  149. 
Alum,  159. 
Yellow  wash,  202. 
Black  wash,  202. 
Silver  nitrate,  168. 
Thymol,  526. 

Psoriasis,  Scaly  Eczema,  Mai^ 
lenders. 
Oil  of  tar,  484. 
Resorcin,  319.  « 

Tar,  484. 
Oil  of  cade,  486, 
Iodine,  231. 
Sulphur,  241. 
Thymol,  526. 
Chrysarobin,  551. 
Pyrogallol,  569. 
Soft  soap,  579. 
Icthyol,  629. 

Ptyalism. 
Belladonna,  364. 
Atropine,  364. 
Alum,  159. 

Puerperal   Fever.     See  Partur 
rient  Apoplexy y  Metritis, 


Pulmonary  CEdi 

Nitrites,  295. 
Atropine,  364. 
Digitalis,  427. 
Strophanthus,  431. 

Purpura  Hemorrhagioa. 
Mineral  acids,  256. 
Quinine,  464. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  480. 
Copper  sulphate,  175. 
Iron. 

Pyjemia. 
Alcohol,  272. 


724 


INDEX   OF  DISEASES  AND   REMEDIAL   liJEASURES 


Pyelitis. 

Urotropin,  321. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  480. 
Balsams,  488. 
Benzoates,  491, 
Eucalyptol,  497. 
Buchu,  517. 
Oil  of  juniper,  518. 
Cantharldes,  617. 

QuiTTOR.     See  Fistula, 

Rabies. 

Quarantine  suspects. 
Destroy  rabid  animals. 
Cauterize  bites  made  by  rabid 

patients  with  nitric  acid,  255. 
Employ  Pasteur   treatment    on 

men  bitten  by  rabid  animals. 
Disinfect  premises,  693. 

Renal.  Colic.     See  Calculus. 

Retention  op  Urine. 

Pressure  on  bladder  through  rec- 
tum, horse. 

Catheterize. 

Opium  and  belladonna  per  rec- 
tum. 

Hot  enemata,  30. 

Rheumatism. 
Salicylic  acid,  471* 
Gaultheria,  471. 
Salol,  471. 

Methyl  salicylate,  473. 
Chloroform,  281. 
Antipyretics,  306. 
Opium,  348. 
Belladonna,  363,  364. 
Strychnine,  387. 
Gelsemium,  398. 
Pilocarpine,  420. 
Digitalis.  428. 
Strophanthus,  431. 
Sulphur,  241. 
Potassium  iodide,  234. 


Rheumatism  (continued). 
Aconite,  439. 
Veratrum  viride,  444. 
Iodine,  231. 
Veratrine,  447. 
Dover's  powder,  451. 
Lithium  salts,  451. 
Tartar  emetic,  216. 
Quinine,  465. 
Burgundy  pitch,  482. 
Benzoic  acid,  490. 
Mustard,  494. 
Camphor  liniment,  524. 
Icthyol,  629. 

Stimulating  liniment,  670. 
Cod  liver  oil,  628. 
Colchicum,  608. 
Cantharides,  615. 
Dry  heat,  681. 
Cold  douche,  678.  • 

Rickets. 
Sodium  phosphate,  134. 
Phosphorus,  221. 
Calcium  phosphate,  151. 
Syrup    of    calcium,    lactophoo* 

phate,  151. 
Syrup  of  ferrous  iodide,  188. 
Cod  liver  oil,  628. 

Ringbone. 
Cautery,  670. 
Cantharides,  615, 

Ringworm. 
Parasiticides,  68.  ' 
Glycerite  of  carbolic  acid,  312, 
Tincture  of  iodine,  231. 
Citrine  ointment,  205. 
White  precipitate,  205. 
Mercurial  ointment,  200. 
Balsam  of  Peru,  487. 
Sulphur,  241. 
Chlorinated  lime,  225. 
Sulphurous  acid,  243. 
Boric  acid.  238. 
Creosote,  314. 


INDEX   OF   DISEASES   AND   REMEDIAL  MEASURES 


725 


Ringworm  {continued). 
Bichloride  of  mercury,  201. 
Naphtol,  317. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  478. 
Thymol,  526. 
Chrysarobin.  551. 
Pyrogallol,  568.   * 

Roaring.     See  Thick  Wind. 

Salivation.    See  Ptyalism. 

Sapr^mia  and  Septicaemia. 
Quinine,  465. 
Eucalyptol,  497. 
Sulphites,  136. 
Alcohol,  272. 

Scab  in  Sheep,  Sarcoptes  ovis. 
See  Mange. 
Carbolic  acid,  312,  314, 
Creolin,  CIS. 
Lysol,  316. 
Tobacco,  402. 
Tar,  484. 
Oil  of  tar,  486. 
Oil  of  cade,  486. 

Scabies.     See  Mange. 

SciRRHUS  Cord.  See  Champignon. 

Scratches.    See  Erythema. 

Septicaemia.     See  SdprcBmia. 

Shock. 
Alcohol,  272. 
Nitroglycerin,  295. 
Atropine,  364. 
Strychnine,  386. 
Digitalis,  427. 
Ergot,  603. 
Heat,  681. 
Mustard,  669. 
Saline  infusions,  703. 

Shoulder  Lameness. 
Veratrine,  427. 
Turpentine,  478. 


Sick  Animals,  destruction  of. 
Chloroform,  290» 
Bullet,  290. 
Prussic  acid,  326. 

Sitfast. 

Turpentine,  478. 

Sore  Throat.  See  Pharyngitis^ 
Laryngitis. 

Sores.     See  Wounds  and  Ulcers. 

Spasms.  See  Convulsions,  Epi- 
lepsy, Chorea,  Tetanus,  Colic, 
Asthma,  Thumps,  etc. 

Spavin. 
Cantharides,  615. 
Cautery,  670. 

Splint. 
Red  mercuric  iodide,  204. 
Cantharides.  615. 

Sprains  and  Strains. 
Irrigation,  679. 
Refrigerant  mixtures,  679. 
Priessnitz  poultice,  678. 
Fomentations,  684. 
Chloroform,  281. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  478. 
Iodine,  231. 
Arnica,  499. 
Lead  acetate,  165. 
Camphor  liniment,  523. 
Olive  oil,  577. 
Soap  liniment,  579. 
Icthyol,  629. 
Burgundy  pitch,  482. 
Blister  and  cautery,  670. 

Sterilization,  Hands,  Instru- 
ments, Operative  Field. 

Surgical  asepsis  and  antisepsis, 
694. 

Soap  and  mustard,  579. 

Potassium  permanganate,  191. 

Corrosive  sublimate,  201. 


726 


INDEX   OF  DISEASES  AND   REMEDIAL   MEASURES 


Sterilization  (continued). 
Carbolic  acid,  311,  312. 
Creolin,  315. 
Lysol,  316. 

Stomach  Staggers.    See  Indiges- 
tion. 

Stomatitis. 
Potassium  chlorate,  125. 
Borax,  258. 
Nitric  acid,  255. 
Lime  water,  149. 
Alum,  159. 

Chlorinated  lime,  225, 
Glycerite  of  carbolic  acid,  812. 
Thymol,  526. 
Hydrastis,  539. 
Glycerite  of  tannin,  567. 
Cold  drinks,  679. 

Strains.    See  Sprains, 

Strangles. 
Mustard,  494. 
Cantharides,  615. 
Stimulants. 
Fresh  air. 

Good  laxative  diet. 
Poultice  the  throat,  680. 
Isolation. 

Treat  generally  as  for  influenza. 
Disinfection,  693. 

Sunstroke,  Heat  Stroke,  Inso- 
lation. 
Antipyretics,  306. 
Cold  applications,  677. 
Venesection,  697. 

Surfeit,  Netti^rash.    See  Urti- 
caria. 

Syncope,  Heart  Failure,  Weak 
Heart. 
Ammonia,  139. 
Spirit  of  ammonia,  139. 
Alcohol,  273. 
Ether,  277. 
Hoffmann's  anodyne,  275. 


Syncope,  etc.  (continued). 
Nitroglycerin,  295. 
Strychnine,  386. 
Digitalis,  427. 
Strophanthus,  431. 
Convallaria,  432. 
Camphor,  524. 
Caffeine,  377. 
Atropine,  364. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  479,  480. 
Mustard,  494. 

Synovitis. 

Irrigation,  679. 

Iodine,  231. 

Mustard,  494. 

Carbolic  acid,  811. 

Alum,  159. 

Mercurial  ointment,  200, 

Cantharides,  615,  671. 

Tape  Worm.    See  Worms. 

Teats,  Sore.     See  Fissure. 

Tenosynovitis. 
Iodine,  231. 

Red  mercuric  iodide,  204, 
Cantharides,  615. 

Tetanus. 
Chloral,  300. 
Carbolic  acid,  312. 
Bacelli  treatment,  312. 
Opium  and  morphine,  348. 
Belladonna,  365. 
Hyoscyamus,  369. 
Cannabis  indica,  372. 
Eserine,  395. 
Gelsemium,  398. 
Tobacco,  402. 
Bromides,  228. 
Antitoxin,  most  successfuL 
Cold  water,  679. 
Rectal  feeding,  664. 

Thick  Wind.    Roaring. 
Red  mercuric  iodide,  204. 


INDEX   OF  DISEASES   AND   REMEDIAL   MEASURES 


727 


Thick  Wind  (continued). 
Potassium  iodide,  234. 
Arsenic,  211. 
Strychnine,  387. 

Tracheitis. 
Benzoin,  491. 
Tannic  acid,  567. 

Thorough  Pin.    See  bursitis. 

Thrush.    See  Stomatitis, 

Thrush  in  Frog  of  Horse. 
Calomel,  202. 
Tar,  485. 
Cleanliness. 

Thumps,    Hiccough,    Spasm    of 

DiAPARAGM. 

Ether,  277. 
Morphine,  348. 
Belladonna,  365. 
Camphor,  524. 

Ticks,  Iodidje. 
Creolin,  210. 
Sulpho-naphthol,  210, 
Arsenic,  210. 

Tinea.     See  Ringworm, 

Trichiniasis,  Trichinosis. 
Glycerin,  582.         v. 

Tuberculosis.  ♦ 

Iodoform,  237. 

Tympanitis.    See  Flatulence, 
Twist.     See  Volvulus. 

Udder,     Inflammation    of.      See 
Mammitis, 

Ulcers.     See  Wounds. 

Urinary  Calculi.    See  Calculi. 

Urinary  Preservative. 
Chloral,  300. 


Urine,  Concentrated. 
Spirit  of  nitrous  ether,  296. 
Potassium   citrate   and  acetate, 
121. 

Urticaria,  Nettlerash,  Surfeit. 
Sodium  bicarbonate,  130. 
Calomel,  201. 
Arsenic,  211. 
Acids,  255. 
Pilocarpine,  420. 
Menthol,  505. 
Icthyol,  629. 
Venesection,  697. 

Urethritis. 
Salol,  471. 

Corrosive  sublimate,  1-10,000. 
Protargol,  2  per  cent,  solution. 
Zinc  sulphate,  lead  a'cetate,  1  per 

cent,  solution,  equal  parts. 
Buchu,  517. 

Uterus,  Hypertrophy  of. 
Ergot,  602. 

Uterus,  Inertia  of. 
Ergot,  602. 

Uterus,    Inflammation    of.      See 
Metritis. 

Uterus,  Subinvolution  of. 
Ergot,  602. 

Vaginitis.    See  Leucorrhoea, 

Verminous      Bronchitis.       See 
Worms. 

Volvulus,  Twist. 
Enemata. 
Opium. 
Eserine,  394. 
Abdominal  section. 

Vomiting. 

Hot  water,  114. 
Lime  water,  149. 


728 


INDEX  OF  DISEASES  AND  REMEDIAL  MEASURES 


Vomiting  {continued). 
Cerium  oxalate,  160. 
Bismuth  subnitrate,  178. 
Mercury,  199. 
Calomel,  203. 
Carbolic  acid,  313. 
Creosote,  314. 
Prussic  acid,  327. 
Morphine,  348. 
Ipecac,  451. 
Menthol,  506. 
Rectal  feeding,  664. 

Warts  and  Growths. 
Glacial  acetic  acid,  249. 
Nitric  acid,  254. 
Carbolic  acid,  311. 
Sulphuric  acid,  254. 
Zinc  chloride,  170. 
Arsenic,  209. 

Weed.    See  Lymphangitis. 

Whistling.     See    Thick     Wind, 
Roaring. 

Wind  Gali£.    See  Bursitis. 

Withers,  fistulous.    See  Fistula. 

Worms. 

Anthelmintics,  68. 
Ascarides.  Round  Worms.  Lum- 
hricoid  Worms. 
Areca  nut,  591. 
Santonin,  596. 
Creolin,  316. 
-    Naphtol,  317. 
Ether,  277. 

Solution  of  ferric  chloride,  187. 
Calomel,  203,  204. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  479. 
Arsenic,  211. 
Tartar  emetic,  217. 
Copper  sulphate,  175. 
Tannic  acid,  567. 
Kamala,  592. 
Tobacco,  402. 


Worms  {continued). 
Ascarides,  etc.  {cont.). 

Aloes,  542. 

Castor  oil,  546. 

Rhubarb,  550. 

Jalap,  558. 
Oxyurides.    Maw  Worms, 

Tobacco,  402. 

Ether,  277. 

Salt,  133. 

Kamala,  592. 

Quassia,  530. 
Stronguli.     S.  micrurus  andfiU 
aria.      Husk   Hoose.     Ver- 
mi7ious  Bronchitis. 

Sulphurous  inhalations,  242. 

Carbolic  acid.  313. 
•  Oil  of  turpentine,  480. 

Creosote,  314. 
Syngamus  trachealis.  Gapes. 

Oil  of  turpentine  on  a  feather, 
480. 
Taenia,  Tape  Worm. 

Aspidium,  590. 

Oil  of  turpentine,  479. 

Areca  nut,  591. 

Pelletierine,  594. 

Pomegranate,  594. 

Kousso,  593. 

Kamala,  592. 

Naphtol,  317. 

Ether,  277. 

Wounds,      Granula^tions      and 
Ulcers. 
Hydrogen  dioxide,  116. 
Lime  and  charcoal,  149. 
Alum,  159. 
Silver  nitrate,  168. 
Potassium  Permanganate,  191. 
Mercuric  oxides,  200. 
Corrosive  sublimate,  201. 
Resin,  482. 
Naphtalin,  317. 
Chloral,  300. 


INDEX  OF  DISEASES  AND  REMEDIAL  MEASURES 


729 


Wounds,  etc.  (continued.) 
Chlorinated  soda,  225. 
Chlorinated  lime,  225. 
Iodoform,  236. 
lodol,  237. 
Aristol,  238. 
Acetanilid,  238. 
Bismuth,  238. 
Salol,  238,  470. 
Boric  acid,  238,  258. 
Sulphurous  acid,  243. 
Nitric  acid,  255. 
Charcoal,  260, 
Carbolic  acid,  311. 
Creosote,  314. 
Creolin,  315. 
Lysol,  316. 
Formalin,  321. 
Glutol,  321. 
Vaseline,  330. 


Wounds,  etc.  (continued). 
Salicylic  acid,  470. 
Tar,  485. 

Balsam  of  Peru,  487. 
Benzoin,  490. 
Myrrh,  501. 
Eucalyptol,  497. 
Zinc  sulphate,  173. 
Conium,  406. 
Laudanum,  347. 
Oil  of  turpentine,  478. 
Camphor,  523. 
Thymol,  526. 
Hydrastis,  537. 
Tincture   of  aloes  and  myrrh, 

542. 
Collodion,  611. 
Glycerite  of  tannin,  567. 
Cantharides,  615,  616. 
Antiseptic  poultices,  683. 


GENERAL   INDEX* 


Abbreviations 84 

Ablution 675 

Absorbent  cotton 610 

Absorption  of  drugs 3 

Absorption  through  skin 9 

Aca'cia 585 

Accelerating  apparatus,  drugs 

acting  on 34 

Ace'ta 76 

Acetanilid 301 

Acetanili'dum 301 

Aceticacid .....  249 

glacial 249 

Acid,  acetic , 249 

dUuted 249 

glacial 249 

arsenous 205 

solution  of 206 

benzoic 489 

boracic 256 

boric 256 

carbolic 306 

crude 306 

citric 250 

syrup  of 251 

hydriodic 233 

syrup  of 283 

hydrocyanic,  diluted 322 

hydrochloric 245 

diluted    245 

lactic 251 

muriatic 245 

nitric 247 

diluted 247 

nitrohydrochloric 247 

diluted 248 

nitromuriatic 247 


PAGE 

Acid,  phosphoric 248 

diluted 248 

salicylic 466 

sulphuric 246 

diluted  ............  246 

aromatic 246 

sulphurous 243 

tartaric 250 

Acids 18 

A'cidum  ace'ticum 249 

dilu'tum 249 

gla'ciale 249 

arseno'sum 205 

benzo'icum 489 

bo'ricum 256 

carbo'licum 306 

cru'dum 306 

liquefa'ctum. . . 307 

chrysopha'nicum 549 

ci'tricum 250 

ga'llicum 567 

hydrochlo'ricum 245 

dilu'tum 245 

hydrocya'nicum  dilu'tum.  322 

la'cticum 251 

me'conicum 332 

ni'tricum 247 

dilu'tum 247 

nitrohydrochlo'ricuih 247 

dilu'tum  248 

phosphor'icum 248 

dilu'tum 248 

salicy'licum 40G 

sulphu'ricum 246 

dilu'tum 246 

aroma'ticum 246 

sulphuro'sum 243 


♦  The  accented  syllable  in  Latin  words  is  indicated  by  the  sign  '. 
730 


GENERAL  INDEX 


731 


PAGE 

A'cidum  ta'nnicum 564 

tarta'ricum 250 

Aconine 435 

Aconite 434 

Aconiti'na 435 

ni'tras 435 

Aconitine 435 

nitrate 435 

Aconi'tum 434 

Acorin 537 

Acrinyl  sulphocyanide . . .  491,  492 
Action  of  drugs- 
cumulative  : 4,  425 

mode  of 2 

on  animals  compared  with 

man \ 11 

on  horses  compared  with 

other  animals 11 

on  pigs  and  dogs 12 

on  ruminants 12 

heat  contrasted  with  cold  686 

Actual  cautery 670 

A'deps 617 

benzoina'tus 484 

la'nae  hydro'sus 618 

Adjuvant 87 

Administration  of  drugs 6 

^ther 274 

African  pepper 777". .  501 

Alcohol 261 

absolute 263 

absolu'tum 263 

amy  lie 263 

amy'licum 263 

deodora'tum 263 

diluted 262 

dilu'tum 262 

deodorized 263 

ethyl 263 

ethy'licum 263 

phenyl 306 

Ale 266 

Alkaline  earths 145 

metals 116 

Alkaloi'dea    70 


PAGE 

Alkaloids 70 

Ally  1  sulphocyanide 492 

Aloe 538 

barbade'nsis 538 

cape'nsis 539 

socotri'na  — 538 

Aloin 539 

Aloi'num 539 

Alterative 59 

Althse'a 587 

Alum 156 

ammonio  ferric 64 

burnt    157 

dried 157 

potassium 156 

Alu'men 156 

exsicca'tum 157 

u'stum .^ 157 

Alumina  hydrated 157 

Alu'mini  hydras 157 

sulphas 158 

Alu'minum 1 56 

hydrate 157 

hydroxide 157 

sulphate 158 

and  potassium  sulphate. . .  156 

American  hellebore 440 

Ammonia,  aromatic  spirit  of. .  140 

liniment 137 

spirit  of 137 

aromatic 140 

water 136 

Ammoniac 515 

emulsion 515 

plaster  with  mercury 515 

Ammoniacum 515 

Ammoniated  mercury. 198 

ointment 198 

Ammo'nii  be'nzons 489 

ca'rbonas 139 

chlo'ridum 141 

valeria'nas 51 1 

Ammonio  ferric  alum 64 

Ammonium 136 

Ammonium  acetate,  sol'n  of.  142 


732 


GENEKAL  INDEX 


PAGE 

Ammonium  benzoate 489 

carbonate 139 

chloride 141 

icthyol  sulphonate 62« 

Amygdalin 584 

Amyl  ni'tris 291 

Amyl  nitrite* 291 

Amylic  alcohol 263 

A'mylum 609 

Anaesthesia 281 

dangers  of 284 

practical 287 

primary 285 

uses  of 289 

Anaesthetics,  general 40 

local 48 

Analgesics 301 

Anaphrodisiacs 57 

Anise 506 

water 508 

Ani'si  fru'ctus 507 

stella'ti  fru'ctus 507 

Ani'sum 506 

Anodyne,  Hoffman's 275 

Anodynes 39 

local 43 

Antacids 1.7 

Anthelmintics 67 

Antidote,  arsenic 182 

Anti-emetics 23 

Antifebrin 301 

Antigalactagogues 59 

Anhidrotics 66 

Antimo'nii  pota'ssii  tar'tras. . .  213 

o'xidum 313 

su'lphidum 212 

purifica'tum 212 

Antirao'nium 212 

sulphura'tum 312 

Antimony  and  potassimn  tar- 
trate  212 

oxide....  ; 213 

sulphide 212 

purified 212 

sulphurated 212 


PAGE 

Antimony,  tartrated 213 

trioxide 213 

trisulphide 212 

wine  of 214 

Antiparasitics 68 

Antipyretics 60,  301 

Antipyrin 302 

Antipyri'num 802 

Antiseptics 19,  67,  306,  686,  691 

Antisepsis,  surgical 694 

Antisialogogues 15 

Antispasmodics 510,  513 

Antitoxin,  diphtheria 712 

tetanus 301 

Aphrodisiacs 56 

Apomorphi'nae  hydrochlo'ras .  350 
Apomorphinehydrochlorate. .  350 

Aporetin 549 

Aqua 113 

ammo'niae 136 

fo'rtior 187 

ani'si 508 

ca'mphorae 521 

chlo'ri 222 

chloroform! 279 

destilla'ta 113 

me'nthae  piperi'tas 505 

me'nthae  vi'ridis 506 

A'quae 75 

Arabin 500,  585 

Arabic  acid 585 

Arachin 610 

Araroba  powder 551 

Are'ca 590 

Areca  nut 590 

Arecoline 590 

Arecoline  hydrobromate 591 

Arge'nti  cya'nidum 166,  327 

io'didum 166 

ni'tras.. 165 

dilu'tus 166 

fu'sus 166 

o'xidum 166 

Arge'ntum 165 

Aristol 237 


GENERAL  INDEX 


733 


PAGE 

Aristo'lum 237 

A'rnica , 498. 

A'rnicse  radix 498 

flo'res 498 

root 498 

Arnica  flowers 498 

Arnicin 498 

Aromatic  oils 71,  473 

spirit  of  ammonia 140 

Arsenic 205 

administration  of 211 

antidote 182,209 

Fowler's  solution  of 206 

trioxide 205 

white 205 

Arsenous  acid 205 

solution  of C06 

A'rsenum C05 

Artificial  feeding 663 

Asafetida 513 

Asafoe'tida 513 

Asepsis,  means  of  procuring. .  688 

surgical 694 

Aspi'dium 589 

Astringents 63 

Atropi'na 354 

Atropi'nae  sulphas. .  rr^ 355 

Atro^)ine 354 

Atropme  sulphate ...  355 

Bacelli's  treatment 312 

Baking  soda 128 

Balsam  of  Peru 486 

of  Tolu .....  487 

of  Fir 481 

Ba'lsama 72 

Ba'lsamum  Peruvia'nimi 486 

Toluta'num 487 

Balls 78 

Barbadoes  aloes 538 

Barbaloin 539 

Ba'rii  chlo'ridum 151 

Barium 151 

Barium  chloride 151 

Barosmin 516 


PAGE 

Basis 87 

Basilicon  ointment 482 

Baths,  cold 678 

hot.: 085 

sheet..    676 

Beer 266 

Belladonna 352 

Bella'donnae  fo'lia 352 

radix 353 

Benzoic  acid 486,  487,  488,  489 

Benzoinated  lard 488 

Benzoi'num 488 

Benzylic  benzoate 486 

cinnamate 487 

Berberine 532,  534 

Beta  naphtol 316 

Bhang 370 

Bichloride  of  mercury 194 

Bile,  drugs  acting  on 26 

Bismuth 176 

salicylate 177 

subcarbonate 176 

subgallate 177 

subnitrate 176 

Bismu'thi  salicy'las 177 

subca'rbonas 176 

subga'Uas 177 

subni'tras 176 

Bismu'thum 176 

Bitters 528 

Black  antimony,  purified 212 

mustard 491 

wash 202 

Bleaching  powder 223 

Bleeding 696 

local 699 

Blister  beetles 612 

Blistering  collodion 611 

Blood,  drugs  acting  on 32 

vessels,  drugs  acting  on. . .     36 

Blue  mass 192 

pill 192 

stone 174 

vitriol 174 

Bodily  heat,  drugs  influencing    60 


734 


GENERAL  INDEX 


PAGE 

Boli 78 

Boluses 78 

Bone  black 259 

Boracic  acid '. 256 

Borax 256 

Boric  acid 256 

Boroglyceride,  solution  of 256 

Boroglycerin,  glycerite  of 256 

Brain,  drugs  acting  on 37 

Brandy 264 

Bray  era 593 

Bromides 225 

Bromine 225 

Bro'mum 225 

Bronchial  tubes,  drugs  influ- 
encing the 49 

Bronchial  spasm 50 

Brucine 378 

Bucco 516 

Buchu 516 

Buchu-camphor 516 

Buckthorn 546,  548 

Burgundy  pitch 480 

plaster 481 

Burnt  alum 157 

Butter  of  cacao 609 

Cacao  butter 609 

Cade,  oil  of . . . ; 484 

Caffei'na 372 

Caffei'na  citra'ta 374 

Caffeine 372 

citrated 374 

Calabar  bean 388 

Calabarine 388 

Calamine 388 

Ca'lamus 537 

Ca'lcii  ca'rbonas  praecipi'ta'tiis  146 
pho'sphas  praecipita'tus. . .  149 

Calcined  magnesia 155 

Calcium 145 

carbonate  precipitated 146 

hydrate,  solution  of 147 

lactophosphate,  syrup  of  .  150 
phosphate  precipated 149 


PAGl 

Calomel 195 

Calu'mba 531 

Calumbic  acid. 532 

Calumbin 532 

Calx 147 

chlora'ta. 222 

Cambo'gia. 559 

Camphor   521 

Ca'mphora 521 

Camphorated  oil 522 

Camphor  gum 521 

laurel 521 

monobromated 522 

Canadine 534 

Cannabin 370 

Cannabinine 370 

CannabiEon 370 

Ca'nnabis  i'ndica 369 

Cannabis  Indian 369 

Cantharides 612 

Cantharidin 613 

Ca'ntharis 612 

Cape  aloes 539 

Capronic  acid 498 

Caprylic  acid 498 

Capsaicin  502 

Ca'psici  fru'ctus 501 

Capsicin 502 

Capsicum 501 

Ca'rbo 259 

anima'lis 259 

purifica'tus 259 

li'gni 259 

Carbolicacid 306 

Carbon 259 

disulphide 261 

Carbo'nei  bisu'lphidum 261 

disu'lphidum 261 

Cardamom 508 

Cardamo'mum 508 

Carminatives 19 

Carron  oil 148 

Casca'ra  sagra'da 546 

Cascari'Ua 530 

Cascarillin 531 


GENERAL  INDEX 


735 


PAGE 

Castile  soap 577 

Castor  oil 545 

seeds 545 

Cataplasms 682 

Catechin 570 

Catechu 569 

red 570 

tannic  acid 570 

Catechuic  acid 570 

Cathartic  acid 552 

pills,  compound 195 

Cathartics 24 

Cathartomannit 552 

Caucasian  insect  powder 597 

Caustic,  lunar 166 

mitigated 166 

potash 117 

soda 126 

Caustics 63,  672 

Cayenne  pepper 501 

Cera  alba 619 

fla'va 619 

Cera'ta 77,  617 

Cerates 77,  617 

Cera'tum rT^. 617 

Cera'tum  ca'mphorae 522 

ceta'cei 620 

resi'nae 482 

Cerebral  depressants 38 

excitants , ,     38 

Ce'rii  o'xalas 160 

Cerium 160 

Cerium  oxalate 160 

Cerous  oxalate 160 

Ceta'ceum 620 

Cetin 620 

Cetylic  alcohol 620 

Chalk,  drop 145 

mixture 146 

powder,  compound 145 

prepared 145 

troches 146 

Champagne 266 

Charcoal,  animal 259 

purified 259 


PAGE 

Charcoal,  wood 259 

Charges 77 

Cha'rtae 77 

Cherry,  wild 328 

Chinoidine 458 

Chittem  bark '. . .  546 

Chloral 297 

hydrate 297 

Chlorinated  lime 222 

solution  of 223 

soda,  solution  of 223 

Chlorine : 222 

water 222 

Chloroform 278 

liniment 279 

water 279 

Chlorofo'rmum 298 

purifica'tum , 278 

Chlo'rum 222 

Cholagogues ; 26 

Choline 370,537 

Cholestrin 576 

Chrysophan 549,  551 

Chrysophanic  acid 449,  551,  552 

Chrysarobin 551 

Chrysarobi'num 551 

Churrus 370 

Cider 266 

Cincho'na 452 

Cinchona  red 452 

Cincho'na  rubra 455 

Cincho'nae  co'rtex 452 

Cinchonicine 453 

Cinchotannic  acid 454 

Cinchonidi'nae  sulphas. ......  459 

Cinchonidi'na 453 

Cinchonidine 453 

sulphate 459 

Cinchonine 453 

sulphate 459 

Cinchonism 462 

Cinnamein 486 

Cinnamic  acid 486,  487 

Citrated  caffeine 347 

Citric  acid 250 


736 


GENERAL  INDEX 


PAGE 

Citrine  ointment 196 

Claret 265 

Classification 109 

Clysters 9,30 

Coca 407 

Cocai'naB  hydrochlo'ras 407 

Cocaine 373,  407 

Codei'na 331,  336 

Cod  liver  oil 626 

Coffee 373,  374,  377 

Colchiceine 605 

Colchicine 605 

Co'lchicum 604 

root 604 

seed 605 

Cold  as  a  remedy 673 

baths 678 

drinks 670 

ene'mata 679 

CoUidine : 400 

CoUo'dia 77,611 

Collodion 611 

blistering 611 

cantharidal 611 

flexible 611 

styptic 611 

Collodions 77,  611 

Collo'dium  cantharida'tum  ...  611 

flexile 611 

sty'pticum 665,  611 

CoUoxylin 611 

Colly'ria 84 

Colocynth 56Q 

Colocynthin 550 

Colocy'nthis 560 

Colocynthitin 560 

Colophony 482 

Columbo 531 

Common  salt 13 

Compound  cathartic  pills. ....  195 

liquorice  powder 553 

solution  of  iodine 229 

syrup  of  squill 214 

Confe'ctiones 77 

Confections. 77 


PAGE 

Conhydrine . .  403 

Conine 403 

Coni'nae  hydrobro'mas . .  403 

Convallamarin 432 

Convalla'ria 431 

Convallarin 422 

Convolvulin 558 

Copper 174 

Copperas 179 

Coriander 509 

Coria'ndri  f ru'ctus 509 

Coria'ndrum 509 

Cornutine 598 

Corrosive  mercuric  chloride  . .  194 

Corrosive  sublimate 194 

Cosmoline 328 

Cotton 610 

absorbent 610 

purified 610 

root  bark 603 

seed  oil 576 

soluble  gun 611 

Counter-irritants 62,  665 

Cox's  hive  syrup 433 

Cream  of  tartar 125 

Creolin 314 

Creoli'nuni 314 

Creosote 31 4 

Creoso'tum 314 

Cre'ta  prsepara'ta 145 

Croton  oil 554 

seeds 554 

Crotonol 554 

Crude  carbolic  acid 306 

Cu'ca 407 

Cumulative  action 4 

Cu'pri  sulphas 174 

Cupric  sulphate 174 

Cu'prum 174 

Cusso 592 

Cutch 569 

Dalmatian  insect  powder 597 

Deadly  nightshade 352 

Deco'cta 74 


GENERAL  INDEX 


737 


PAGE 

Decoctions * 74 

Definitions 1 

of  drugs 2 

Delphinine. 597 

Delphinoidine 597 

Delphinisine 597 

Demulcents 64 

Deodorants 67,  686,  692 

Deodorized  alcohol 263 

opium 334 

Dermatol   177 

Diachylon  plaster 161 

Dia  lysis 73 

Diarphoretics 65 

Digestion 72 

Digestive  organs,  drugs  acting 

on 15 

Digitalein 421 

Digitalin 421,  422 

Digitalis 421 

folia 421 

Digitonin 421 

Digitoxin 421 

Diosphenol » 516 

Diphtheric  antitoxin 712 

Disease,    affecting   action    of 

drugs 13 

Disinfectants .67,  636 

Disinfection,  practical 693 

Displacement 73 

Dissolution,  law  of, 

11,  39,  269,  281,  342 
Distilled  oils. 71,  473 

water 113 

Diuretics 52 

Domestic  measures 90 

Dosage 9 

Doses 10 

Dose  table 630 

Double  muriate  of  quinine  and 

urea 458 

Douches 678 

Dover's  powder 333 

Drastics 24 

Draught 79 


PAGE 

Drench 79 

Dried  alum 157 

sodium  carbonate 128 

Drop  chalk 145 

Drops 89 

Drugs  acting  on  the— 

bodily  heat 60 

blood 32 

vessels 36 

circulation 32 

digestive  organs,. 15 

ears 46 

eye 44 

heart 33 

nerves 43 

nervous  system 37 

respiratory  organs 46 

sexual  organs 56 

skin " 62 

spinal  cord 41 

urinary  organs 52 

Drugs,  absorption  of 3 

classification  of 109 

cumulative  action  of 4 

definition  of 2 

elimination  of 4 

excretion  of 5 

general  action  of 2 

influencing  the   composi- 
tion of  urine 55 

reaction  of  urine 54 

secretion  of  sweat. .  65 

local  action  of      2 

mode  of  action  of 2 

primary  action  of 2 

secondary  action  of 2 

selective  action  of 2 

Dry  heat 685 

Ears,  drugs  acting  on 46 

Ecbolics 58 

Ecboline 599 

Egg,  yolk  of 581 

Elaterin 560 

Elateri'num 560 


738 


GENERAL  INDEX 


PAGE 

Electua  ria 80 

Electuaries. 80 

Elimination 4 

Elixirs 75 

Eli'xir  proprieta'tis  parace'lsi 

500,  540 

Elutriation 72 

Emetics 20 

Emetine 448 

Enmienagogues 57 

Emodin 547,  549 

Emollients 64 

Empirical  therapeutics 1 

Empla'stra 77 

Empla'strum 77 

ammoni'aci  cum  hydra'r- 

gyro 515 

pi'cis  Burgu'ndicse 481 

resi'nae 482 

sapo'nis 578 

Emu'lsa 75 

Emulsions 75 

Emu'lsum  ammoni'aci 515 

asafoe'tidae 514 

Enemas ^ 9,  30 

Ene'mata 9,  30 

Enteroclysis 701,  703 

Epsom  salt 152 

Ergot 598 

Ergot  of  rye 598 

Ergo'ta 598 

Ergotic  acid 599 

Ergotin 600 

Ergotine 599 

Ergotinic  acid 599 

Ergotinine 599 

Ergoti'num 600 

Errhines 46 

Erythroretin 549 

Erythro'xylon 407 

Escharotics 63,  672 

Eseridine 388 

Eserine 388 

salicylate 389 

sulphate 389 


PAGE 

Essences 71 

Esse'ntiae 71 

Essential  oils 71,  473 

Ether 274 

nitrous,  spirit  of 290 

spirit  of 275 

spirit  of,  compound 275 

sulphuric 274 

Ethereal  oils 71,  473 

Ethyl  alcohol 263 

Ethyl  nitrite 290 

Ethyl  oxide 274 

Eucain  hydrochlorate 414 

Eucalyptene 495 

Eucalyptol 495 

Eucalyptus 494 

Eupho'rbium     611 

Evaporating  solutions 679 

Excretion 5 

Expectorants 49 

depressing 49 

stimulating 49 

Extra'cta 76 

flu'ida 76 

Extracts 76 

Extra' ctum  aco'niti 436 

a'rnicae  ra'dicis 499 

bella'donnae  folio'rum  al- 

coho'licum 353 

ca'nnabis  i'ndicBB    370 

cincho'nae 454 

coni'i 404 

digita'lis 422 

ergo'tae 599 

gentia'nae 527 

haemato'xyli .  574 

hyosc'yami. . 366 

jaborandi 416 

krame'riae 573 

nu'cis  vo'micae 378 

o'pii 333 

qua'ssiae 529 

rhe'i 550 

tara'xici 533 

Extra'ctum  aco'niti  flu'idum. .  436 


GENERAL  INDEX 


739 


PAGE 

Extra'ctum  bella'donnae  ra'di- 

cis  flu'idum 353 

bu'chu  flu'idum 517 

ca'lami  flu'idum 537 

calu'mbse  flu'idum 532 

cannabis  i'ndicae flu'idum  370 

ca'psici  flu'idum 502 

cincho'nse  flu'idum 454 

co'lchici  ra'dicis  flu'idum  .  C05 
se'minis  flu'idum. . .  606 

coni'i  flu'idum 404 

convalla'riae  flu'idum  ....  432 

cu'sso  flu'idum 593 

digita'lis  flu'idum 422 

ergo'tae  flu'idum 599 

eucaly'pti  flu'idum 495 

fra'ngulse  flu'idum 548 

gelse'mii  flu'idum 396 

gentia'nse  flu'idum 527 

glycyrrhi'zae  flu'idum 583 

gossy'pii  ra'dicis  flu'idum.  604 

hamarae'lidis  flu'idum 575 

hydra'stis  flu'idum 534 

hyoscy'ami  flu'idtim 366 

ipecacua'nhae  flu'idum 448 

krame'riae  flu'idum 573 

nu'cis  vomica?  flu'idum . .  378 

piloca'rpi  flu'idum 416 

quassia  flu'idum 529 

rha'mni   purshia'nae  flu'i- 
dum   547 

rhe'i  flu'idum 549 

sabi'nse  flu'idum 519 

sci'llae  flu'idum 433 

se'nnae  flu'idum 553 

tara'xici  flu'idum 533 

valeria'nao  flu'idum 511 

vera' tri  vi'ridis  flu'idum. .  441 

zingibe'ris  flu'idum 503 

Extra'ctum  casca'rae  sagra'dae 

li'quidum 547 

ergo'tae  li'quidum 599 

fi'licis  li'quidum 589 

fra'ngulae  li'quidum 548 

glycyrrhi'zae  li'quidum...  583 


PAGE 

Extra'ctum    hamame'lidis  li'- 
quidum    575 

o'pii  li'quidum 334 

Eye,  drugs  acting  on 44 

Eye  lotions 84 

Fats '...     77 

Feeding,  artificial 663 

rectal 663 

Fel  bo'vis 624 

purifica'tum 624 

tau'ri  624 

Fennel 509 

Fern,  male 589 

Fer'ri  ca'rbonas  sacchara'tus. .  180 

chlo'ridum 181 

et  ammo'nii  cit'ras 183 

et  pota'ssii  ta'rtras. 183 

et  quini'nae  ci'tras 184 

solu'bilis 184 

o'xidum    hydra'tum  cum 

magne'sia 182, 209 

su'lphas 179 

exsicca'tus 180 

graniria'tus 180 

valeria'nas 512 

Ferric  chloride 181 

solution  of 181 

tincture  of 182 

hydrate  with  magnesia. . .  182 
subsulphate,  solution  of. .  182 

valerianate 512 

Ferrous  carbonate,  mass  of .. . .  180 

saccharated 180 

iodide,  syrup  of 181 

sulphate 179 

dried 180 

granulated 180 

Fe'rrum 179 

redu'ctum 179 

Filicin 589 

Fi'lix  mas 589 

Filicic  acid 589 

Fixedoils 71,77 

Flax  seed 584 


740 


GENEKAL   INDEX 


PAGE 

Flax  seed,  oil  of 543 

Fleming's  tincture 436 

Flexible  collodion 611 

Flies,  Spanish 612 

Flowers  of  sulphur 238 

Fluid  extracts 76 

Foeni'culi  fru'ctus 509 

Fceni'culum 509 

Fce'nugreek 510 

Fome'nta 684 

Fomentations 684 

Food  and  feeding 648 

in  anaemia 659 

in  black  water 659 

in  chronic  indigestion. . . .  657 

in  constipation 657 

in  convalesence 659 

in  debility 659 

in  diarrhoea 657,  658 

in  fever 660 

in  gastroenteritis 657,  658 

in  haemorrhage  from  sto- 
mach and  bowels 658 

in  jaundice 658 

in  laminitis 657 

Formaldehyde 319 

Formalin 319 

Formic  aldehyde 318 

Fox  glove. 421 

Fowler's  solution 206 

Fra'ngula 547 

Frangulin 547 

Friar's  balsam 488 

Fusel  oil 263 

Gaduin 626 

Galactagogues 58 

Galls 563 

Ga'Ua : 563 

Gallic  acid ^ 567 

Gamboge 559 

Gambogic  acid 559 

Gastric  antiseptics 19 

sedatives 23 

Gaulthe'ria 470 


PAGR 

Gaulthe'ria,  oil  of 461 

Gelatin 653 

Gelse'mium 396 

Gelse'mina 396,  397 

Gelseminic  acid 396 

Gelsenainine 396 

General  action  of  drugs 2 

General  therapeutics 1 

General  therapeutic  measures  648 

Gentian 526 

Gentia'na 526 

Gentisic  acid .  527 

Gentiopicrin 527 

Germicides 67 

Gin 264 

Ginger 503 

Gingerol 503 

Glacial  acetic  acid 249 

Glauber's  salt 130 

Glonoin 291 

spirit  of 291 

Glonoi'num 291 

Glucosi'dea 70 

Glucosides 70 

Glutei  321 

Glycerin 580 

suppositories  of 581 

Glyceri'num 580 

Glyceri'ta 581 

Glycerites ; 581 

Glyceri'tum  a'cidi  carbo'lici, 

307, '581 

a'cidi  ta'nnici 565,  581 

a'myli 609,  581 

boroglyceri'ni 256 

hydra'stis 535,  581 

vite'lli 581 

Glyceryl  borate,  glycerite  of. .  256 

trinitrate 291 

Glyconin ; 581 

Glycyramin 583 

Glycyrrhetin 583 

Glycyrrhiza 583 

Glycy rrhizin 583 

Goa  powder 551 


OENERAL  INDEX 


741 


PAGE 

Golden  seal 534 

Golden  sulphur 213 

Gossy'pii  ra'dicis  cortex 603 

Gossy'pium  purifica'tum 610 

Goulard's  extract 161 

Grana'tum 593 

Granulated  ferrous  sulphate. .  180 

Gray  powder 192 

Gregory's  powder : . .  550 

Green  soap  578 

Green  vitriol 179 

Guara'na ...  373 

Guaranine 372 

Gum  arable 385 

Gum-resinae 72 

Gum-resins 72 

Gu'mmi 72 

Gun  cotton,  soluble 611 

Gunjah 370 

Gu'ttse 89 

Habit  .    ...   13 

Hsematein 574 

Haematinics .\ 33 

Hsematoxylin 574 

Haematoxylon 574 

Haemostatics 63 

Hamame'lis 575 

Hard  soap 577 

Hard  petrolatum 329 

Haschisch 370 

Hartshorn 136 

Hau'stus 79 

Heart,  drugs  acting  on 33,  421 

Heat 673,680 

Heat,  bodily,  drugs  acting  on.     60 

Heavy  magnesia 155 

Hellebore,  American 440 

Hemide'smus 448 

Hemlock 403 

Hemp,  Indian 369 

Henbane 366 

Hepatic  stimulants 26 

Heroin 337 

Heroin  hydrochloride 337 


PAGE 

Hive  syrup 214 

Hock 265 

Hoffmann's  anodyne 275 

Holocain 415 

HomoUe's  digitalin 421 

Honey 620 

clarified 621 

Honeys 78 

Hot  bath 685 

water  bags 683 

Hydragogues 25 

Hydra'rgyri  chlo'ridum  corro- 

si'vum 194 

chlo'ridum  mite 195 

io'didum  ru'brum 195. 

o'xidum  tla'vum 193 

o'xidum  ru'brum 193 

subchlori'dum 195 

Hydrargyrum 192 

ammouia'tum 198 

cu'm  cre'ta 192 

Hydrastin 535 

Hydrastine 534 

Hydrasti'nae  hydrochlo'ras . ...  535 

Hydrastis 534 

Hydrated  alumina 157 

Hydriodic  acid,  syrup  of 233 

Hydrochloric  acid 245 

solution  of  arsenic. 206 

Hydrocyanic  acid,  diluted 322 

Hydrogen  dioxi.le,  solution  of  115 

peroxide,  solution  of... . . .  115 

Hydrous  wool  fat ,  618 

Hydroxide,  potassium 117 

sodium    126 

Hyoscine 366 

Hyosci'nae  hydrobro'mas 368 

Hyoscine  hydrobromate 368 

Hyoscyamine 352,  366 

Hyoscyamine  hydrobromate. .  367 

sulphate 367 

Hyoscy'ami  folia 366 

Hyoscy  amus 366 

Hypnotics 39 

Hypodermatic  injections ....      6 


742 


GENERAL  INDEX 


Hypodermoclysis 701,  702 

Hypophosphites 202 


Ice  bags 

Ice  poultices - 

Icthyol 

Icthy'olum 

Idiosyncrasy 

Igasuric  acid 

Illi'cium 

Incompatibility,  chemical 

physical 

physiological 

Index  for  diseases  and  reme- 
dial measures 

Indian  cannabis 

Indian  hemp 

Ineine 

Infu'sa 

Infusions 

Inf usum  ca'lami 

cascari'llae 

cincho'nae 

acidum 

digitalis 

Inhalations 47, 

Inje'ctio  apomorphi'nae  hyjKH 

de'rmica 

ergoti'ni  hypode'rmica  . . . 
morphi'nse  hjrpode'rmica. . 

Injections,  intratracheal 

intravenous 

rectal 

subcutaneous 

Intestinal  antiseptics 

Intravenous  injection 

Intratracheal  injection 

Inulin 

Iodine 

compound  solution  of 

ointment 

tincture  of 

lo'dum 

Iodoform 

lodofo'rmum 


675 

675 

628 

628 

14 

378 

507 

81 

83 

83 

705 


429 
74 
74 
538 
531 
455 
455 
422 
685 

351 
600 
336 

8 
6 


20 
6 

8 
533 
228 
229 
229 
229 
228 
235 
235 


PAGE 

lodol 237 

lodo'lum 237 

Ipecac 447 

Ipecacuanha 447 

Ipecacuanhic  acid 448 

Iron 179 

and  ammonium  citrate...  183 
and  potassium  tartrate . . .  183 

and  quinine  citrate 184 

soluble 184 

by  hydrogen 179 

metallic 179 

Quevenne's 179 

reduced 179 

Irritants 62 

Isopelletierine 593 

Jaborandi 415 

Pernambuco 415 

Rio  Janeiro 415 

Jaborandine 416 

Jaborine 415 

Jalap 557 

Jala'pa 557 

Jalapin 558 

Jalapurgin 558 

Jasmine,  yellow 396 

Jervine 440,  441 

Kama'la 592 

Kermes  mineral 212 

Kinic  acid 454 

Kino 571 

red 572 

Kinoin 572 

Kinovic  acid 454 

Kinovin 454 

Kino-tannic  acid 571 

Kola  nut.. 373 

Kombe  poison 429 

Kombic  acid 429 

Kooso 592 

Kosin 592 

Koussin 592 

Kousso 592 


GENERAL  INDEX 


743 


PAGE 

Krame'ria 572 

Kramero-tannio  acid 573 

Labarraque's  solution 223 

Lac  sulphuris 239 

Lactose 621 

Lanolin 618 

Lard 617 

benzoinated 617,  484 

Latin  words  and  phrases 84 

Laudanum ^ 333 

Laurel  camphor 521 

Laurin 610 

Law  of  dissolution, 

11,  39,  269,  282,  342 

Laxatives 24 

Lead ; 160 

acetate 161 

carbonate 162 

iodide 162 

ointment 163 

nitrate 162 

.  oxide M 160 

plaster > 161 

poisoning 164 

subacetate,  cerate  of 162 

solution  of 161 

sugar  of 161 

white 162 

water 162 

Levant  worm  seed 594 

Levigation 72 

Light  magnesia 155 

Lily  of  valley 431 

Lime 147 

cliiorinated 222 

liniment 148 

phosphate,  precipitated. . .  149 

solution  of 147 

syrup  of 148 

water 147 

Linime'nta 77 

Liniments 77 

Linime'ntum  ammo'nise 137 

bella'donnae  354 


PAGE 

Linime'ntum  ca'lcis 148 

ca'mphorss 522 

chlorofo'rmi 279 

sapo'nis 578 

mollis 578 

terebinthi'nse 475 

Linseed 584 

Linseed,  oil  of 543 

Linolein 543 

Li'num 584 

Liquid  petrolatum 328 

Li'quor  a'cidi  arseno'si 206 

ammo'niae 136 

ammo'nii  aceta'tis 142 

ammo'niae  fo'rtior 137 

arsenica'lis 206 

arse'nici  hydrochlo'ricus..  206 

ca'lcis 147 

chlora'tae 223 

fe'rri  chlo'ridi 181 

perchlo'ridi 181 

subsulpha'tis 182 

hydroge'nii  dio'xidi 115 

io'  di  compo'situs 229 

morphi'nae  aceta'tis 336 

morphi'nae  hydrochlora'tis  336 

plu'mbi  subaceta'tis 161 

dilu'tus 162 

pota'ssae 118 

pota'ssii  arseni'tis 206 

so'dae 127 

so'dae  chlorina'tse 223 

zi'nci  chlo'ridi 170 

Liquo'res 74 

Liquorice  root 583 

Liquorice  powder,  compound.  239 

Litharge 160 

Li'thii  ca'rbonas 143 

ci'tras 144 

sali'cylas 145 

Liver,  drugs  acting  on 26 

Liver  of  sulphur 243 

Lixiviation 72 

Local  action 2 

anodyne 43 


744 


GENERAL  INDEX 


PAGE 

Local  an  aesthetics 43 

Logwood 574 

Lugol's  solution 229 

Lunar  caustic 166,  168 

Lyspl 316 

Lyso'lum 316 

Maceration 72 

Magnesia 155 

calcined 155 

heavy 155 

light 155 

milk  of,  Phillip's 156 

pondero'sa. 155 

Magne'sii  ca'rbonas 154  I 

sulphas 152  j 

Magnesium 152 

carbonate 154 

sulphate 152 

Male  fern 589 

Manganese 189 

Manga'num 189 

Marshmallow 587 

Mass,  blue 192 

of  ferrous  carbonate 180 

Ma'ssa  fe'rri  carbona'tis 180 

hydra'rgyri 192 

Ma'ssae , 77 

Masses 77 

Mate 373 

Materia  me'dica 1 

May  apple 561 

Meadow  saffron 604 

Measures,  weights,  tables  of, 

88,  89,  90,  92,  93. 

domestic  90 

Meconic  acid , 332 

Meconin 332 

Medicines,  definition  of 1 

Mel 620 

despuma'tum 62 1 

Me'llita 78 

Mentha  piperita 504 

vi'ridis 506 

Menthene 504 


PAGE 

Menthol 504,  505 

Mercurial  ointment 192 

Mercuric  ammonium  chloride  196 

corrosive  chloride 194 

iodide,  red 195 

nitrate,  ointment  of 196 

oxide,  red  193 

ointment  of 194 

Mercurous  chloride,  mild 195 

Mercury 193 

ammoniated 196 

ointment 196 

bichloride 194 

biniodide 195 

chloride,  corrosive 194 

mild 195 

iodide,  red 195 

mass  of 192 

subchloride 195 

with  chalk  192 

Metabolism,  drugs  influencing    59 

Metacreosotic  acid 466,  468 

Methyl  coniine 193 

pelletierine 593 

sali'cylas 472 

salicylate 422 

Metric  system , 90-94 

Milk,  drugs  influencing  secre- 
tion of 58 

drugs  eliminated  in 59 

of  asafetida 514 

of  sulphur 239 

peptonized 663 

sugar  of 621 

Mindererus,  spirit  of 142 

Mistu'ra  cre'tae 146 

Mistu  rae 75 

Mixtures 75 

Mitigated  caustic 1 66 

Molasses 588 

Monobromated  camphor 522 

Monsel's  solution 182 

Morphi'na 334 

Morphinae  ace'tas 335 

hydrochlo  ras 335 


GENERAL  INDEX 


745 


PAGE 

Morphi'nse  sulphas 336 

Morphine 331,  334 

acetate 335 

hydrochlorate 335 

sulphate 336 

Morrhuol '. 626 

Motor  nerves,  drugs  acting  on  43 

Moulded  silver  nitrate 166 

Mucilage  of  acacia 586 

Mucila'go  aca'cise 586 

tragaca'nthae 586 

Muscarine 361 

Muriatic  acid 245 

diluted 245 

Mustard 492 

black 491 

white 491 

Mutton  suet 618 

Mydriatics 45 

Myristin 543 

Myrosin 491,  492 

Myrrh 500 

My'rrha ,. 500 

Myrrhin \ 500 

Myrrhol... 500 

Naphtalene 317 

Naphtalin 317 

Naphtali'num 517 

Naphtol 316 

Narceine  . '. 331 

Narcotics 39 

Narcotine 331 

Nataloin 540 

Nativelle's  digitalin 421 

Nerves,  drugs  acting  on 43 

Nervous  system,  drugs  acting 

on 37 

Nerves  of  special  sense,  drugs 

acting  on. 44 

Nicotine 399,  400 

Nightshade,  deadly 352 

Nitric  acid 247 

dilute .247 

Nitrites 290 


PAGE 

Nitre 122 

sweet  spirit  of 290 

Nitroglycerin 291 

spirit  of 291 

Nitrohydrochloric  acid 247 

diluted.   248 

Nitromuriatic  acid 238 

diluted 238 

Nitrous  ether,  spirit  of 290 

Nutgall 563 

Nux  vomica 377 

Oak,  white 569 

Oakum' . .' 610 

Official  preparations 74 

Oil  of  anise 507,  508 

box  berry 471 

cade 484 

carron 148 

castor 545 

checkerberry 471 

cod  liver 626 

coriander 509 

cotton  seed 576 

croton 554 

ethereal 71 

eucalyptus 495 

fennel 510 

flax  seed . .  543 

fusel 263 

gaultheria 471 

artificial 472 

synthetic 473 

juniper 517 

linseed 543 

mustard,  volatile 492 

olive 576 

peppermint 504 

phosphorated 219 

saviue 519 

sweet 543 

spearmint 506 

tar 483 

theobroma 609 

turpentine 474 


746 


GENERAL  INDEX 


PAGE 

Oil  of  turpentine,  rectified 475 

wintergreen.. .' ...  471 

artificial 472 

synthetic 472 

Oils 71 

distilled 71 

essential 71 

ethereal 71 

fixed 71 

volatile 71 

O'lea 71 

Olea'ta 77 

Oleate  of  mercury 194 

veratrine 445 

Oleates 77 

Olein 576,577,610 

O  leoresi'nae 71,  76 

Oleoresins 71,  76 

Oleum  ani'si 607,  508 

ca'dinum 484 

coria'ndri 509 

eucalypti 495 

foeni'culi 510 

gaulthe'riae 471 

gossy'pii  se'minis 576 

juniper! 517 

li'ni 543 

me'nthae  piperi'tae 504 

vi'ridis 506 

mo'rrhuae 626 

oli'vae 576 

phosphora'tum 219 

pi'cis  li'quidae 483 

ri'cini 545 

sabi  naB 519 

si'napis  volatile 492 

terebi'nthinsB 474 

rectifica'tum 475 

tbeobro'matis 609 

ti'glii 554 

Olive  oil 576 

O  pii-pu'lvis 332 

Opium 331 

Ordeal  bean 388 

Organs,  sexual,  drugs  acting  on    56 


PAGE 

Orthocreosotic  acid 466,  468 

Oxgall 624 

purified 624 

Oxytocics 58 

Pack,  cold ". 677 

Palmitin 576,  577 

Pancreatin 623 

Pancreati'num 623 

Papain 625 

Papaverine 331 

Papers 77 

Papoid 625 

Parasiticides 68 

Paregoric 333 

Pelletierine 593 

Pepper,  cayenne 501 

red 501 

Peppermint 504 

water 505 

Pepsin 622 

saccharated Q22 

sacchara'tum 622 

Peptonized  milk 663 

Percolation 73 

Persian  insect  powder 597 

Petrolatum 328 

hard 329 

liquid 328 

li'quidum 328 

mo'Ue ; 328 

soft 328 

spi'ssum 329 

Petroleum  ointment 328 

soft 328 

hard 329 

Phaeoretin 549 

Pharmaceutical  processes 72 

Pharmacognosy,  definition  of.      1 

Pharmacology,  definition  of . .  1 

Pharmacopoeia,  definition  of  .  73 

preparations  of  the 74 

Pharmaco-dynamics 1 

Pharmacy,  definition  of 1 

Phenacetin 302 


GENERAL  INDEX 


747 


PAGE 

Phenaceti'num 302 

Phenol.... 306 

Physical  incompatibility. . .  .81,  82 
Physiological  incompatibility, 

81,  82 

Phosphide  of  zinc 221 

Phosphorated  oil 219 

Phosphoric  acid 248 

diluted 248 

Phosphorus 218 

spiritof 219 

Physosterin 388 

Physosti'gma 388 

Physostigmi'nae  salicy'las 389 

sulphas 389 

Physostigmine 388 

salicylate 389 

sulphate 389 

Picropodophyllin 562 

PiUs 77 

of  asafetida. 514 

blue 192 

cathartic,  compound 195 

Pilocarpi'nse  hydrochlo'ras  ...  416 

ni'tras 417 

Pilocarpine 415 

hydrochlorate 416 

nitrate 417 

Pilocarpidine ...  415 

Pilocarpus 415 

Pi'lula  hydra'rgyri 192 

Pilule 77 

Pinene 476 

Pitch 433 

Burgundy. 480 

plaster 481 

Pix  Burgii'ndica 480 

li'quida. 483 

ni'gra 483 

Plasma,  blood,  drugs  acting  on    32 

Plasters 77 

Plu'mbi  ace'tas 161 

ca'rbonas 162 

io'didum 162 

ni'tras 162 


PAGE 

Plu'mbi  o'xidum 162 

Plumbum 160 

Pneumogastric,   drugs  acting 

on 34 

Podophyllin 562 

Podophyllinic  acid 562 

Podophy'llum 561 

Podophylloquercitin 562 

Podophyllotoxin 562 

Pomegranate 593 

Port..,    265 

Posology 9 

table  of 630 

Potash,  caustic 117 

Pota'ssa 117 

cumca'lce 118 

solution  of 118 

sulphura'ta 243 

with  lime , 118 

Pota'ssii  ace'tas 120 

bica'rbonas 120 

bita'rtras 125 

bro'midum.   225 

ca'rbonas 119 

chlo'ras 124 

ci'tras 121 

cyanidmn 327 

io'didum 232 

ni'tras 122 

perma'nganas 189 

Potassium 116 

acetate 120 

alum    156 

arsenite,  solution  of 206 

bicarbonate 120 

bitartrate 125 

bromide 225 

carbonate 119 

.    chlorate 124 

citrate 121 

cyanide 327 

hydrate 117 

solution  of 118 

hydroxide. .  117 

iodide 232 


748 


GENERAL  INDEX 


PAGE 

Potassium  nitrate 128 

permanganate 189 

tartrate,  acid 125 

Powder,  compound  catechu. . .  570 

chalk 145 

jalap 572 

liquorice 239,553 

Dover's 449 

Gregory's 549 

ipecac  and  opium 449 

Powders 76 

Poultices 682 

Preissnitz. 677 

Precipitate,  red 193 

white 196 

Precipitated  calcium  carbon- 
ate   146 

phosphate 149 

Preface iii 

Preparations,  pharmacopoeial.     74 

Prepared  chalk 145 

Prescription,  definition  of 86 

writing 84 

words  and  phrases 

used  in 84 

Prescriptions  for  balls 100 

drenches 102 

electuaries 106 

liniments 108 

mixtures 101 

ointments 107 

pills 97 

powders 103 

suppositories 106 

Primary  action 2 

Protargol 168 

Protopine 332 

Pru  nus  virginia'na. 328 

Prussic  acid 322 

Pseudoaconitine 435 

aconine 435 

jervine 440 

pelletierine 593 

Pu'lvis  catechu compo'situs.. .  570 
Pulvis  cre'tas  compo'situs 145 


Pu'lvis  glycyrrhi'zaB  compo'si- 
tus  239,  553 

ipecachua'nhse  et  o'pii 449 

jala'pae  compo'situs 572 

rhe'i  compo'situs 549 

Pu'lveres 76 

Punicotannic  acid 593 

Pupil,  drugs  acting  on 45 

Purgatives 24 

cholagogue 29 

drastic , 24 

hydragogue 25 

laxative 24 

saline 25 

simple 24 

Purified  cotton. 610 

oxgall 624 

Pustulante 62,666 

Pyre'thrum 597 

Pyridine 399 

Pyrocatechin 572 

Pyrogallic  acid 568 

Pyrogallol 568 

Pyroxylin 611 

Pyroxyli'num 611 

Quassia 529 

Quassiin 529 

Quercin 569 

Quercitannic  acid 569 

Quercite 569 

Que'rcus  alba 569 

Que  venue's  digitalin 422 

Quicksilver 192 

Quinamine 453 

Quinic  acid 454 

Quinicine 454 

Quinidi'nse  su'lphas ,  458 

Quinidine 453 

sulphate 458 

Quini'na 453 

Quini'nae    bimuria'tis    ca'rba- 

mas 458 

bisu'lphas 456 

hydrobro'mas 457 


GENERAL   INDEX 


749 


PAGE 

Quini'naB  hyrochlo'"ras. 457 

sulphas 45t> 

valeria'nas 458 

Quinine 453 

bisulphate 456 

hydrobromate 457 

hydrochlorate 457 

sulphate 456 

valerianate 458 

Quinoidine 453,  458 

Quinoidi'num 458 

Rational  therapeutics 1 

Rectal  injections 9 

Rectal  feeding 663 

Rectified  oil  of  turpentine 475 

Red  corpuscles,  drugs  acting 

on 33 

Red  cinchona 455 

mercuric  oxide 193 

pepper 501 

cinchona 455 

precipitate 193 

ointment 193 

wine 265 

Reduced  iron 179 

Refrigerants 6,  680 

Remote  action 2 

Resin  cerate 482 

plaster 482 

Resi'na  jala'pae 557 

podophy'Ui 562 

scammo'nii    557 

Resi'nse 71 

Resins 71 

Resorcin 318 

Re&orcinol 318 

Resorci'num 318 

Respiratory  organs,  drugs  act- 
ing on 46,  447 

mucous  membrane,  drugs 

acting  on 46 

Rha'mnus  cartha'rticus 548 

'purshia'na 546 

Rhamnose 548 


PAGE 

Rhatanin . . 573 

Rhatany. , 572 

•Rheotannic  acid 549 

Rheum 549 

Rhein 549.  551 

Rhigolene 330 

Rhubarb 549 

Ricinolein 545 

Rosin 482 

Rottle'ra 592 

Rottlerin 592 

Rubefacients. .., 62,  669 

Rubi  jervine 440 

Rum 264 

Rutin 516 

Sab'ina 519 

Saccharated   ferrous    carbon- 
ate   *. 180 

pepsin 622 

Sacchari  faex 588 

Sa'ccharum 587 

la'ctis 621 

Sal  ammoniac 141 

soda 127 

volatile 140 

Salicin 467 

Salici'num 467 

Salicylic  acid .  466 

Sahcylism. 468 

Salicylous  acid 469 

Salicyluric  acid 468,  469 

Saline  purgatives 25 

infusions 700 

Salivary  glands,  drugs  acting 

on 15 

Salol 467 

Salt,  common 131 

Epsom 152 

Glauber's 130 

Salts  of  tartar 119 

Saltpetre 122 

Santo'nica 594 

Santonin 595 

Santoni'num 595 


750 


GENERAL  INDEX 


PAGE 

Sa'po 577 

mo  His 578 

vi'ridis 578 

Savine 519 

Scaling 73 

Scammoniu 557 

Scammo  nium 556 

Scammony 556 

Scarification 699 

Scheele's  prussic  acid 323 

Schmiedeberg's  digitalin 423 

Sci'lla 433 

Scillin 433 

Scillipicria 433 

Scillitoxin 433 

Sclerotinic  acid 599 

Secondary  action 2 

Secretion  of  milJt,  drugs  influ- 
encing       58 

Sedatives,  gastric 23 

Selective  action 3 

Senna 553 

Alexandria 553 

Tinnivelly 552 

Indian 552 

Sennacrol 552 

Sennapicrin 552 

Sensory  nerves,  drugs  acting 

or 407 

Se'vum 618 

Sexual  organs,  drugs  acting  on    56 

Sherry 266 

Sheet  bath 676 

Siaiagogues 15 

Silver 165 

cyanide 166,327 

iodide 166 

nitrate 165 

diluted 166 

moulded 166 

oxide 166 

Simple  purgatives 24 

Sinalbin 491 

Sihapin  sulphate 491 

Si'napis 491 


PAGE 

Si'napis  alba 491 

nigra  491 

Sinapism 494 

Sinigrin 493 

Skin,  drugs  acting  on 62 

Soap 577 

composition  of 577 

green 578 

hard 577 

soft 578 

white  castile 577 

Socaloin 539 

Socotrine  aloes 538 

Soda :...  126 

baking 128 

caustic 126 

solution  of 127 

washing 127 

So'dii  be'nzoas 489 

bica'rbonas 128 

bisu'lphis 135 

boras 2o6 

bro'midum 326 

ca'rbonas 127 

exsicca'tus 138 

chlo'ridum 131 

hyposu'lphis 135 

io'didum 232 

pho'sphas 134 

sali'cylas 467 

sulphas ; . .  130 

su'lphis 134 

Sodium 126 

benzoate 489 

bicarbonate 128 

bisulphite 135 

borate 256 

bromide  266 

carbonate 137 

dried 128 

chloride 131 

hydrate 126 

solution  of 137 

hydroxide 136 

hyposulphite •  135 


GENERAL  INDEX 


751 


PAGE 

Sodium  iodide 232 

phosphate 134 

salicylate 467 

sulphate 130 

sulphite 134 

Soft  petrola'tum 328 

petroleum  ointment 328 

soap 578 

liniment 578 

Solution  of  acetate  of  ammon- 
ium   142 

ammonia ■. 136 

•     stronger 137 

arsenite  of  potassium 206 

arsenous  acid 206 

chloride  of  iron 181 

zinc 170 

chlorinated  lime 223 

soda 223 

hydrogen  dioxide 115 

morphine  acetate 336 

hydrochlor^te 336 

iodine,  compound 229 

lime... 147 

potash 118 

soda 127 

subacetate  of  lead 161 

diluted 162 

subsulphate  of  iron 182 

Solutions 74 

Soporifics 39 

Spanish  flies 612 

Spearmint , 506 

oil  of ..  506 

spirit  of 506 

water  of 5(6 

Spermace'ti 620 

Spinal  cord,  drugs  acting  on..  399 

Spirit  of  ammonia 137 

aromatic 140 

camphor 522 

chloroform 279 

anise 508 

ether 275 

compound 275 


PAGE 

Spirit  of  glonoin 291 

juniper 518 

compoimd 264,  518 

nitrous  ether 290 

peppermint 504 

phosphorus 219 

spearmint 506 

Spi'ritus 75 

Spi'ritus  se'theris 275 

compo'situs 275 

nitro'si 290 

ani'si 508 

ammo'nise 137 

aroma'ticus 140 

ca'mphorae 522 

chlorofo'rmi 279 

frume'nti 263 

glonoi'ni ' 291 

juni'peri 518 

compo'situs 264,  518 

me'nthse  piperi'taB 504 

vi'ridis » . .  506 

pho'sphori 219 

rectifica'tus 261 

te'nuior.. 262 

vi'ni  ga'Uici 264 

Squill 432 

compound  syrup  of    . 433 

Staphisa'gria 597 

Staphisagrine 597 

Stearin 610 

Stearopten 521 

Sternuatories 46 

Stimulants,  cerebral 38 

hepatic 26 

Stomach,  drugs  acting  on  ... .     16 

Stomachics 16 

Stout 266 

Strophanthidin 429 

Strophanthin 429,  430 

Stropha'nthus 429 

Strychni'na 378 

Strychni'nae  sulphas 379 

Strychnine 378 

sulphate 379 


752 


GENERAL   INDEX 


PAGE 

styptic  collodion 565,  611 

Styptics 63 

Styrol 486 

Subcutaneous  injections 6 

Sublimate,  corrosive 1P4 

Sublimed  sulphur 238 

Sudorifics 65 

Suet 618 

mutton 618 

Sugar 587 

cane 587 

of  milk 621 

of  lead 161 

Sulphur 238 

flowers  of 238 

liver  of 2-13 

lo'tum 238 

milk  of 239 

ointment 239 

precipitated 239 

praecipita'tum 239 

sublima'tum 238 

sublimed 238 

washed 238 

Sulphuric  acid 246 

aromatic 246 

diluted 246 

ether *. 274 

Sulphurated  pota'ssa 243 

Sulphurous  acid 243 

Su'pposito'ria 77 

glyceri'ni 581 

iodofo'rmi 237 

morphi'nge 336 

Juppositories 77 

Suppurants 673 

Sweat,  drugs  influencing  secre- 
tion of 65 

Sweet  spirit  of  nitre 290 

oil 576 

Symbols  (signs) 88,  89 

Synthetic  oil  of  wintergreen. .  472 

Syrup,  simple 588 

Sy'rupi .*. . .  75 

Syrups 75 


PAGE 

Sy'rupus  aca'ciae 586 

a'cidi  hydrio'dici ...  233 

althae'se 587 

ca'lcii  Lictophospha'tis 150 

ca'lcis 148 

fe'rri  io'didi . .  ^  181 

fu'sci 588 

ipecacua'nhae 449 

pru'ni  virginia'na^ 328 

rha'mni  catha'rtic: 548 

sci'Use 433 

compo'situs -433 

toluta'nus 487 

Taba'cum 399 

Tables  of  weights  and  meas- 
ures     :. 88-93 

Tannic  acid 564 

Tannin 564 

Tar 483 

Taraxacin  . .    533 

Taraxacerin 533 

Taraxacum 533 

Tartrated  antimony 212 

Tartar  emetic 213 

Tartar,  salts  of 119 

.    cream  of 125 

Tea 373,377 

Terebene 476 

Terebe'num 476 

Terebi'nthina 474 

canade'nsis 481 

Terpenes 475 

Terpin  hydrate 476 

Terpi'ni  hydras. ...  476 

Tetanocannabine 370 

Tetanus  antitoxin 301 

Thebaine 331 

Theine 373 

Theobro'ma,  oil  of .   609 

Theobromine 373 

Therapeutics ...       1 

definition  of 1 

empirical 1 

general 1 


GENERAL   INDEX- 


753 


PAGE 

Therapeutics,  rational 1 

Theri'aca 588 

Thiol 629 

Thymol 525 

Tiglinic  acid 554 

Tinctu*l-a  aco'niti 435 

alo'es  et  my'rrhae ,  500,  540 

a'rnicae 499 

flo'rum    498 

ra'dicis 499 

asafoe'tidse 514 

bella'donnsB  folio'rum 353 

benzoi'ni 488 

compo'sita 488 

bu'chu 517 

calu'mbae 532 

ca'nnabis  i'ndicae 371 

cantha'ridis 613 

ca'psici 502 

cardamo'mi     509 

compo'sita  1 509 

cascari'llae \... 531 

ca'techu 570 

compo'sita ..." 570 

cincho'nae 455 

compo'sita 455 

co'lchici  se'minis >.  606 

digitalis 422 

ergo'tae 599 

ammonia'tse 599 

fe'rri  chlo'ride 182 

perchlo'ridi 182 

gelse'mii 396 

gentia'nae  compo'sita 527 

hydra'stis 535 

hyoscy'ami 367 

io'di 229 

ipecacua'nhae  et  o'pii 449 

ki'no 572 

krame'risB 573 

my'rrhsB 500 

nu'cis  vo'micse 378 

o'pii 333 

camphora'taB 333 

deodora'tse 334 


PAGE 

Tinctu'ra  qua'ssiae 529 

sci'llse 433 

stropha  nthi 429 

vera'tri  v'iridis 441 

Tinctu'rae 75 

Tincture  of  larkspur 597 

Tinctures 75 

Tobacco 399 

Tolu 487 

Tonics 60 

Tow 610 

Toxicology,  definition  of 1 

Tragacanth 586 

Tragaca'ntha 586 

Transfusion 700 

Treacle 588 

Trituration 73 

Trituratio'nes : 76 

Triturations 76 

Turpentine 474 

Canada 481 

liniment 475 

oil  of    475 

Ungue'nta 77 

Ungue'ntum 617 

a'cidi  carbo'lici 307 

ta'nnici 565 

aconiti'nae 439 

bella'donnae 353 

ceta'cei 620 

chrysarobi'ni, 551 

ga'Uae 564,568 

cum  o'pio 568 

hydra'rgyri 192 

ammonia' ti 196 

nitra'tis 196 

o'xidi  fla'vi 194 

ru'bri 193 

io'di 229 

iodofo'rmi 235 

petro'lei 328 

pi'cis  li'quidae ! 483 

pota'ssii  io'didi. 232 

su'lphuris 239 


754 


GENERAL  INDEX 


PAGE 

Ungue'ntum  zi'nci  o'xidi 172 

United  States  Pharmacopoeia.  73 

Urinary  tract,  drugs  acting  on.  52 

sedatives 56 

antiseptics 56 

Urine,  drugs  altering  compo- 
sition of 55 

drugs  increasing  secretion 

of 53 

acidifying 55 

making  alkaline... .  55 

making  aseptic 56 

Urotropin 321 

Uterus,  drugs  acting  on 58 

Uterine  action,  drugs  restrain- 
ing    58 

Vagus,  drugs  acting  on 34 

Valerian 510 

Valeria'na 510 

Valerianae  rhizo'ma 510 

Valerianic  acid 511 

Vaseline 328 

Vasomotor  centre,  drugs  act- 
ing on 36 

Vegetable  bitters 526 

cathartics 538 

drugs 331 

Venesection 696 

Veratralbine 444 

Veratri'na •  .  444 

Veratrine 444 

Veratroidine 440,  441 

Vera'trum  vi'ride 440 

album 444 

Vermicides 67 

Vermifuges 68 

Vesicants 62,  670 

Vessels,  drugs  acting  on 36 

Vienna  paste 118 

Vina 75 

Vinegars 76 

Vi'num  album 265 

Vi'num  antimo'nii 214 

co'lchici .  605 


PAGE 

Vi'num  ra'dicis G05 

co'lchici  se'minis 606 

ipecacuanhas 449 

o'pii 334 

porte'nse 265 

ru'brum \  . .  265 

xe'ricum 266 

Vite'llus,  glycerite  of 581 

Vitriol,  blue 174 

green 179 

Volatile  oils 71,  473 

oil  of  mustard 492 

Warm  baths 685 

Wash,  black 202 

yellow   ...; 201 

Washed  sulphur 238 

Washing  soda 127 

Water 113 

Waters 75 

Wax 619 

yellow 619 

white... 619 

Weights  and  measures 88-93 

Wet  pack 677 

Whiskey 263 

White  arsenic 205 

castile  soap 577 

corpuscles,   drugs    acting 

on 33 

hellebore 444 

lead 162 

mustard , 491 

oak 569 

precipitate 196 

ointment 196 

White  wax 619 

wine 265 

Wild  cherry 328 

Wine,  white 265 

red 205 

Wines 75 

Wintergreen,  oil  of 471 

artificial  oil  of 472 

synthetic  oil  of 472 


GENERAL  INDEX 


755 


Witchhazel 575 

Wool  fat,  hydrous 618 

Wormseed 594 

oil  of 594 

Yellow  jasmine 396 

mercuric  oxide 193 

wash 201 

Yolk  of  egg 581 

Zinc 170 

acetate 172 

carbonate,  precipitated. . .  171 

oxide 171 


PAGE 

Zinc  oxide  ointment 172* 

phosphide 221 

sulphate 171 

valerianate 512 

Zi'nci  ace'tas 172 

ca'rbonas  praecipita'tus  . .  171 

chlo'ridum  — 170 

o'xidum 171 

pho'sphidum 221 

sulphas 71 

valeria'nas 512 

Zincum 170 

Zingiber 503 

Zymine 623 


(C 


WILLIAM  R.  JENKINS' 

Veterinary  Books 

1901 


(*)  Single  asterisk  designates  New  Books. 
(**)  Double  asterisk  designates  Recent  Publications. 


For  extended  notices,   see    the   special  advertise- 
ments  at  tlie  hack  of  the  Catalogue, 


ANDERSON,  "Vice  in  the  Horse"  and  other  papers 
on  Horses  and  Riding.  By  E.  L.  Anderson.  Demy, 
8vo,  cloth 2  00 

~  <*  How  to  Bide  and  School  a  Horse."  With  a  System 
of  Horse  Gymnastics.  By  Edward  L.  Anderson. 
Cr.  8vo 1  00 

ABMSTEAD.     "The  Artistic  Anatomy  of  the  Horse." 

A  brief  description  of  the  various  Anatomical  Struc- 
tures which  may  be  distinguished  during  Life  through 
the  Skin.  By  Hugh  W.  Armstead,  M.D.,  F.R.C.S. 
With  illustrations  from  drawings  by  the  author. 
Cloth  oblong,  12|  x  10 3  75 


Veterinary  Catalogue  of  William  R.  Jenkins 


BACH,  "How  to  Judge  a  Horse."  A  concise  treatise 
as  to  its  Qualities  and  Soundness ;  Including  Bits  and 
Bitting,  Saddles  and  Saddling,  Stable  Drainage,  Driv- 
ing One  Horse,  a  Pair,  Four-in-hand,  or  Tandem,  etc. 
By  Captain  F.W,  Bach.  12mo,  cloth,  fully  illustrated, 
$1  00;  paper 50 

{*)BANHAM.  ''Anatomical  and  Physiological  Model  of 
the  Horse."  Half  life  size.  Composed  of  super- 
posed plates,  colored  to  nature,  showing  internal 
organs,  muscles,  skeleton,  etc.,  mounted  on  strong 
boards,  with  explanatory  text.  By  George  A, 
Banham,  F.R.C.V.S. 
Size  of  Model  38x41  inches 10  00 

—  **  Tables  of  Veterinary  Posology  and  Therapeutics,"  with 
weight43,  measures,  etc.  By  George  A.  Banham, 
F.R.C.V.S.  New  edition  will  be  ready  in  March  1901. 
12mo,  cloth 1  00 

BAUCHER,  "Method  of  Horsemanship."  Including 
the  Breaking  and  Training  of  Horses 1  00 

\*)BELIj.     "The  Veterinarian's  Call   Book  (Perpetual)." 

By  Roscoe  R.  Bell,  D.V.S.,  editor  of  the  American 
Veterinary  Review.     Revised  for  1901. 

A  visiting  list,  that  can  be  commenced  at  any  time 
and  used  until  full,  containing  much  useful  informa- 
tion for  the  student  and  the  busy  practitioner. 
Among  contents  are  items  concerning:  Veterinary 
Drugs;  Poisons;  Solubility  of  Drugs;  Composition  of 
Milk,Bile,  Blood,  Gastric  Juice,  Urine,  Saliva ;  Respi- 
ration; Dentition;  Temperature,  etc.,  etc.  Bound  in 
flexible  leather,  with  flap  and  pocket 1  25 


861-S5d  Sixth  Avenue  (cor.  48ihSL),  New  tork. 


')BBADLE¥.      "Outlines    of   Veterinary    Anatomy." 

By  O.  Charnock  Bradley,  Member  of  the  Royal  Col- 
lege of  Veterinary  Surgeons ;  Professor  of  Anatomy 
in  the  New  Veterinary  College,  Edinburgh. 

The  author  presents  the  most  important  facts  of 
veterinary  anatomy  in  as  condensed  a  form  as  possible, 
consistent  with  lucidity.    12mo. 

Complete  in  three  parts. 

Part  I.:      The  Limbs  {G]oth) 125 

Part  II. :     The  Trunk  (paper) 1  25 

Part  III. :    The  Head  and  Neck  (paper) 1  25 

The  Set  complete 3  50 


CADIOT.  "Roaring  in  Horses."  Its  Pathology  and 
Treatment.  This  work  represents  the  latest  develop- 
ment in  operative  methods  for  the  alleviation 
of  roaring.  Each  step  is  most  clearly  defined  by 
excellent  full-page  illustrations.  By  P.  J.  Cadiot, 
Professor  at  the  Veterinary  School,  Alfort.  Trans. 
Thos.  J.  Watt  Dollar,  M.R.C.V.S.,  etc.    Cloth 75 

—  "  Exercises  in  Equine  Surgrery."  By  P.  J.  Cadiot. 
Translated  by  Prof.  A.  W.  Bitting,  M.D.,V.S. ;  edited 
by  Prof.  A.  Liautard,  M.D.V.S.  8vo,  cloth,  illus- 
trated  2  50 

(•)— "  A  Treatise  on  Vetcrinany  Therapeutics  of  the  Domestic 
Animals."  By  P.J.  Cadiot  and  J.  Alvary.  Translated 
by  Prof.  A.  Liautard,  M,D.,V.S.    2  Parts  ready. 

Part  I,  Vol.  I,  8vo,  93  pages,  45  illustrations.. 1  00 

Part  II,  Vol.,  I,  8vo,  96  pages : 1  00 

{Part  Hit  in  Preparation). 


Veterinary  Catalogue  of  William  R.  Jenkins 


i*)CHAPMAN,  "Manual  of  the  Pathological  Treatment 
of  Lameness  in  the  Horse,"  treated  solely  by 
mechanical  means.  By  George  T.  Chapman.  8vo, 
cloth,  124  pages 2  00 


CHAUVEAU.  "The  Comparative  Anatomy  of  the 
Domesticated  Animals."  By  A.  Chauveau.  New 
edition,  translated,  enlarged  and  entirely  revised  by 
George  Fleming,  F.R.C.V.S.  8vo.  cloth  with  585 
lUustratlons G  25 


CLARKE.      "Chart  of  the  Feet  and   Teeth   of  Fossil 
Horses."    By  W.  H.  Clarke 25 


CLEMENT.  **  Veterinary  Post  Mortem  Examina- 
tions." By  A.  W.  Clement,  V.8.  Records  of 
autopsies,  to  be  of  any  value,  should  accurately 
represent  the  appearances  of  the  tissues  and  organs 
so  that  a  diagnosis  might  be  made  by  the  reader  were 
not  the  examiners'  conclusions  stated.  To  make  the 
pathological  conditions  clear  to  the  reader,  some 
definite  system  of  dissection  Is  necessary.  The 
absence  In  the  English  language,  of  any  guide  In 
making  autopsies  upon  the  lower  animals,  induced 
Dr.  Clement  to  write  this  book,  trusting  that  It 
would  prove  of  practical  value  to  th«  profession. 
12mo,  cloth,  illustrated  75 


CLEAVELAND.       "Pronouncing     Medical     Lexicon." 
Pocket  edition,    aoth 75 


851-853  Sixth  Avenue  {cor.  4Sth  St.),  New  York. 


COUMTENAT.  '< Manual  of  Veterinary  Medicine  and 
Surgery."  By  Edward  Courtenay,  V.  S.  Crown,  8vo, 
cloth 2  75 


COX.        **  Horses  :     In    Accident    and    Disease."       The 

sketches  Introduced  embrace  various  attitudes  which 
have  been  observed,  such  as  in  choking ;  the  disorders 
and  accidents  occurring  to  the  stomach  and  intestines ; 
affection  of  the  brain ;  and  some  special  forms  of  lame- 
ness, etc.  By  J.  Roalfe  Cox,  F.K.C.V.S.  8vo,  cloth, 
fully  illustrated 1  50 


CURTIS.     "Horses,    Cattle,    Sheep    and    Swine."     The 

origin,  history,  improvement,  description, characteris- 
tics, merits,  objections,  etc.  By  Geo.  W.  Curtis, 
M.S. A.  Superbly  illustrated.  Cloth,  $2  00;  half 
sheep,  $2.75 ;  half  morocco 3  60 


{**)I)ALB.YMPIjE.  "Veterinary  Obstetrics."  A  compen- 
dium for  the  use  of  advanced  students  and  Practi- 
tioners. By  W.  H.  Dalrymple,  M.  K.  C.  V.  S., 
principal  of  the  Department  of  Veterinary  Science  in 
the  Louisiana  State  University  and  A.  &  M.  College ; 
Veterinarian  to  the  Louisiana  State  Bureau  of 
Agriculture,  and  Agricultural  Experiment  Stations; 
Member  of  the  United  States  Veterinary  Medical 
Associations,  etc.  Svo,  cloth,  with  many  illustra- 
tions  2  50 


Veterinary  Catalogue  of  William  R.  Jenkins 


DALZIEL.  **  The  Fox  Terrier."  Illustrated.  (Monographs 
on  British  Dogs) .     By  Hugh  Dalziel 1  00 

—  ♦*  The  St.  Bernard."    Illustrated 1  00 

—  "The   Diseases  of  Dog»."      Their    Pathology,    Diagnosis 

and  Treatment,  with  a  dictionary  of  Canine  Materia 
Medica.   By  Hugh  Dalziel.  12mo,  cloth 80 

—  "Diseases  of  Horses."    12mo,  cloth 100 

—  "Breaking     and     Training       Dogs."      Being      concise 

directions  for  the  proper  education  of  dogs,  both 
for  the  field  and  for  companions.  Second  edi- 
tion, revised  and  enlarged.  Part  I,  by  Pathfinder; 
Part  II,  by  Hugh  Dalziel.     12mo,  cloth,  illus  ....2  60 

—  "The   Collie."    Its   History,    Points,    and   Breeding.     By 

Hugh  Dalziel    Illustrated,  8vo,  cloth  1  00 

—  "The  Greyhound."   8yo,  cloth,  illus 1  00 

DANA.  "Tables  in  Comparati?e  Physiology."  By  Prof. 
C.L.  Dana,  M.D ...25 

DANCE.  "Veterinary  Tablet."  Folded  in  cloth  case. 
The  tablet  of  A.  A.  Dance  is  a  synopsis  of  the  diseases 
of  horses,  cattle  and  dogs,  with  the  causes,  symptoms 
and  cures 76 

DAT.  "The  Race-horse  in  Training."  By  Wm.  Day, 
8vo 3  50 


851-853  Sixth  Avenue  {cor.  ASth  St),  New  York. 


{*)DE  BR  UIN.     "  Bovine  Obstetrics."  By  M.  G.  De  Bruin, 

Instructor  of  Obstetrics  at  the  State  Veterinary- 
School  in  Utrecht.  Translated  by  W.  E.  A.  Wyman, 
Professor  of  Veterinary  Science  at  Clemson  A.  «&  M. 
College,  and  Veterinarian  to  the  South  Carolina 
Experiment  Station. 

Svo,  cloth,  382  pages,  77  illustrations 5  (JO 

See  also  '*  Wyman." 

{*)DOLLAIl,       "A    Surgical    Operating    Table   for  the 
'        Horse."    By  Jno.  A.  W.  Dollar,  M.R.C.V.S 0  90 

(*)—  "  Clinical  Veterinary  Medicine  and  Surgery,"  By  John 
A.  W.  Dollar,  M.R.C.V.S '. 5  25 

(*)—  "A  Hand-boolL  of  Horse-Shoeing,"  with  introductory 
chapters  on  the  anatomy  and  physiology  of  the 
horse's  foot.  By  Jno.  A.  W.  Dollar,  M.R.C.V.S., 
translator  and  editor  of  Moller's  "  Veterinary  Sur- 
gery," "An  Atlas  of  Veterinary  Surgical  Operations," 
etc. ;  with  the  collaboration  of  Albert  Wheatley, 
F.R.C.V.S.  8vo,  cloth,  433  pp.,  406  illustrations  .  .4.75 


DUN',  "Veterinary  Medicines.!'  By  Finlay  Dun,  V.  S. 
A  new  revised  and  enlarged  English  edition 
(temporarily  out  of  print),  Svo,  cloth 3  50 

DJFYEJR.  <*  Seats  and  Saddles.'?  Bits  and  Bitting, 
Draught  and  Harness  and  the  Prevention  and  Cure  of 
Restiveness  in  Horses.  By  Francis  Dwyer.  Illus- 
trated.   1  vol.,  12mo,  cloth,  gilt 150 


Veterinary  Catalogue  of  William  R.  Jenkins 


FLEMING.  •*  Veterinary  Obstetrics."  Including  the 
Accidents  and  Diseases  incident  to  Pregnancy,  Parturi- 
tion, and  tlie  early  Age  in  Domesticated  Animals. 
By  Geo.  Fleming,  F.R.C.V.S.  With  212  illustrations. 
New  edition  revised,  226 illustrations,  758  pages.  ..6  25 
773  pages,  8vo,  cloth  (old  edition) 3  50 

—  "Tuberculosis."    From  a  Sanitary  and  Pathological  Point 

of  View.    By  Geo.  Fleming,  F.B.C.V.S 25 

—  <'  The  Contagious  Diseases  of  Animals."    Their  influence  on 

the  wealth  and  health  of  nations.    12mo,  paper — 25 

—  "OperatiTe    Veterinary    Surgery."        Part    I,    by    Dr. 

Geo.  Fleming,  M.R.C.V.8.  This  valuable  work, 
the  most  practical  treatise  yet  issued  on  the 
subject  in  the  English  language,  is  devoted  to  the 
common  operations  of  Veterinary  Surgery;  and  the 
concise  descriptions  and  directions  of  the  text  are  illus- 
trated with  numerous  wood  engravings.  8vo,cloth.2  75 
Second  Tolnme  in  preparation. 

—  *'  Human  and  Animal  Varlol»."    A  Study  In  Comparative 

Pathology.     Paper 25 

—  "Animal      Plagues."         Their      History,     Nature,     and 

Prevention.  By  George  Fleming,  F.  E.  0.  V.  8.,  etc. 
First  Series.  8vo,  cloth,  $6.00;  Second  Series. 
8vo,  cloth 3  00 

—  "  Roaring    in    Horses."         By    Dr.    George     Fleming, 

F.B.C.V.S.  A  treatise  on  this  peculiar  disorder 
of  the  Horse,  indicating  its  method  of  treatment 
and  curability.    8vo,  cloth,  with  col.  plates 1  50 


851-853  Sixth  Avenue  {cor.  4Sth  St.),  New  York. 


FLEMING-NEUMANN,  "Parasites  and  Parasitic 
Diseases  of  tlie  Domesticated  Animals."  A  work 
which  the  students  of  human  or  veterinary  medi- 
cine, the  sanitarian,  agriculturist  or  breeder  or  rearer 
of  animals,  may  refer  for  full  information  regarding 
the  external  and  internal  Parasites — vegetable  and 
animal — which  attack  various  species  of  Domestic 
Animals.  A  Treatise  by  L.  G.  Neumann,  Professor 
at  the  National  Veterinary  School  of  Toulouse. 
Translated  and  edited  by  George  Fleming,  0.  B.,  L.L. 
D.,F.R.O.V.S.   873  pages,  365  illustrations,  cloth.7  50 


QHES SWELL.  "The  Diseases  and  Disorders  of  the 
Ox,"  By  George  Gresswell,  B.A.  With  Notes  by 
James  B.  Gresswell.    Crown,  8vo,  cloth,  illu8....3  50 

—  **  Diseases    and    Disorders    of   the    Horse."    By  Albert, 

James  B.,  and  George  Gresswell.  Crown,  8vo,  illus- 
trated, cloth 1  75 

—  ••Veterinary     Pharmacology     and     Therapeutics."     By 

James  B.  Gresswell,  F.R.C.V.S.    16mo,  cloth  . .  .1  50 

—  ••  The   Bovine   Prescriber."     For    the    use   of    Veterina- 

rians and  Veterinary  Students.  By  James  B.  and 
Albert  Gresswell,  M. B.C. V.S    Cloth 75 

—  ♦•The  Equine   Hospital   Prescriber."    Drawn   up   for  the 

use  of  Veterinary  Practitioners  and  Students.  By 
Drs.  James  B.  and  Albert  Gresswell,  M.R.C.V.S. 
Cloth 75 


10  Veterinary  Catalogue  of  William  R.  Jenkins 


GRESSWELL,  Manual  of  "The  Theory  and  Practice 
of  Equiue Medicine."  By  J.  B.  Gresswell,  F.R.C.V.S., 
and  Albert  Gresswell,  M.R.C.V.S.,  second  edition, 
enlarged,  8vo,  cloth.  2  75 


"Veterinary  Pharmacopaeia,  Materia  Medica  and 
Tlierapeutics."  By  George  and  Charles  Gresswell, 
with  descriptions  and  physiological  actions  of  medi- 
cines.  By  Albert  Gresswell.   Crown,  8vo,  cloth.  .2  76 


GOTTHEIL.        "A    Manual    of    General     Histology." 

By  Wm.  S.  Gottheil,  M.D.,  Professor  of  Pathology  in 
the  American  Veterinary  College,  New  York;  etc.,  etc. 
Histology  is  the  basis  of  the  physician's  art,  as 
Anatomy  is  the  foundation  of  the  surgeon's  science. 
Only  by  knowing  the  processes  of  life  can  we  under- 
stand the  changes  of  disease  and  the  action  of  remedies ; 
as  the  architect  must  know  his  building  materials,  so 
must  the  practitioner  of  medicine  know  the  intimate 
structure  of  the  body.  To  present  this  knowledge  in 
an  accessible  and  simple  form  has  been  the  author's 
task.    8vo.,  cloth,  148  pages,  fully  illustrated. . .  1  00 


UA  S  SL  O  CH.  * '  A  Compend  of  Veterinary  Materia  Medica 
and  Therapeutics."  By  Dr.  A.  C.  Hassloch,  V.S., 
Lecturer  on  Materia  Medica  and  Therapeutics,  and 
Professor  of  Veterinary  Dentistry  at  the  New  York 
College  of  Veterinary  Surgeons  and  School  of  Compa- 
rative Medicine,  N.  Y.    12mo,  cloth,  235  pages  . .  1  50 


851-853  Sixth  Avenue  {cor.  ^th  St.),  New  York.  11 


HEATLEY.  "The  Stock  Owner's  Guide."  A  handy 
Medical  Treatise  for  every  man  who  owns  an 
ox  or  cow.  By  George  S.  Heatley,  M.K.C.V.  12mo, 
cloth 1  25 

—  "The   Horse   Owner's   Safeguard."       A    handy   Medical 

Guide  for  every  Horse  Owner.     12mo,  cloth 1  50 

—  '•  Practical  Veterinary  Remedies."  12mo,  cloth 1  00 


HILL.,  "The  Management  and  Diseases  of  the  Dog." 
Containing  full  instructions  for  Breeding,  Rearing  and 
Kenneling  Dogs.  Their  Different  Diseases.  How  to 
detect  and  how  to  cure  them.  Their  Medicines,  and 
the  doses  in  which  they  can  be  safely  administered. 
By  J.  Woodroffe  Hill,  F.R.C.V.S.    12mo,  cloth,  extra 

fully  illustrated 2  00 

(Temporarily  out  of  print,  new  edition  in  preparation.) 


HINEBAUCH,    "Veterinary  Dental  Surgery."     For  the 

use  of  Students,  Practitioners  and  Stockmen. 

12mo,  cloth,  illustrated 2  00 

Sheep 2  76 

HO  ARE.  "A  Manual  of  Veterinary  Therapeutics  and 
Pharmacology."  By  E.  Wallis  Hoare,  F.R.C.V.S. 
12mo,  cloth,  560  pages 2  75 

"Deserves  a  good  place  in  the  libraries  of  all  veterina- 
rians. *  *  *  Cannot  help  but  be  of  the  greatest  assist- 
ance to  the  young  veterinarian  and  the  every  day  busy 
practitioner."— -4merican  Veterinary  Beview. 


12  Veterinary  Catalogue  of  William  R.  Jenkins 


{*)HOBDAY.  "  Canine  and  Feline  Surgrery."  By  Frederick 
T.  G.  Hobday,  F.R.C.V.S.,  Professor  in  Charge  of  tiie 
Free  Out-Patients'  Clinique  at  the  Royal  Veterinary 
College,  London,  Tiie  work  contains  76  illustrations 
in  the  text. 
Demy  8vo,  152  pages,  full-bound  cloth 2  00 


{**)HUNTING.  The  Art  of  Horse-shoeing.  A  manual 
for  Farriers.  By  William  Hunting,  F.R.C.V.S.,  edi- 
tor of  the  Veterinary  Record,  ex-president  of  the  Royal 
College  of  Veterinary  Surgeons.  8vo,  cloth,  with 
nearly  100  illustrations 1  00 


{*)JENKINS,    "  Model  of  the  Horse." 10  00 

(See  Banham). 


OKOBERT,  "Practical  Toxicology  for  Physicians  and 
Students."  By  Professor  Dr.  Rudolph  Kobert, 
Medical  Director  of  Dr.  Brehmer's  Sanitarium  for 
Pulmonary  Diseases  at  Goerbersdorf  in  Silesia  (Prus- 
sia), late  Director  of  the  Pharmacological  Institute, 
Dorpat,  Russia.  Translated  and  edited  by  L.  H. 
Friedburg,  Ph.  D.  Authorized  Edition. 
8vo,  cloth 2  50 


KOCH.     "Etiology  of  Tuberculosis."     By  Dr.  R.  Koch. 
Translated  by  T.  Saure.    Svo,  cloth 1  00 


851-853  Sixth  Avenue  {cor.  48th  St.),  New  York.  18 


KEATING.  "A  New  Unabridged  Pronoundngr  Diction- 
ary  of  Medicine."  By  John  M.  Keating,  M.D.,  LL.D., 
Henry  Hamilton  and  others.  A  voluminous  and 
exhaustive  hand-book  of  Medical  and  scientific 
terminology  with  Phonetic  Pronunciation,  Accentu- 
ation, Etymology,  etc.  With  an  appendix  containing 
important  tables  of  Bacilli,  Microcci  Leucomalnes, 
Ptomaines ;  Drugs  and  Materials  used  in  Antiseptic 
Surgery;  Poisons  and  their  antidotes:  Weights  and 
Measures;  Themometer  Scales;  New  Officinal  and 
Unofficinal  Drugs,  etc.,  etc.    8vo,  818  pages 5  00 


LAMBEBT.       "The     Germ     Theory       of      Disease." 

Bearing  upon  the  health  and  welfare  of  man  and  the 
domesticated  animals.  By  James  Lambert,  F.R.C.V.S. 
8vo.  paper 25 


LAW,  "Farmers'  Teterinary  Adviser."  A  Guide  to 
the  Prevention  and  Treatment  of  Disease  in  Domestic 
Animals.  By  Professor  James  Law.  Illustrated.  8vo, 
cloth 8  00 


{**)IjEGQE,  *•  Cattle  Tuberculosis."  A  Practical  Guide 
to  the  Farmer,  Butcher  and  Meat  Inspector,  By  T.M, 
Legge,  M.A,,  M.D.,  D.P,H.,  Secretary  of  the  Royal 
Commission  on  Tuberculosis,'  1896-98;  author  of 
"  Public  Health  in  European  Capitals,"  and  "  Harold 
Sessions,  F.R.C.V.S."    Cloth 1  00 


14  Veterinary  Catalogue  of  Wiltiam  tt.  Jenkins 


LIAUTARD,    "Median  Neurotomy  in  the  Treatment  of 
Chronic  Tendinitis  and  Periostosis  of  the  Fetlock," 

By  C.  Pellerin,  late  Repetitor  of  Clinic  and  Surgery  to 
the  Alfort  Veterinary  School.  Translated  with  addi- 
tional facts  relating  to  it,  by  Prof.  A.  Liautard,  M.D., 
V.M. 

Having  rendered  good  results  when  performed  by 
himself,  the  author  believes  the  operation,  which 
consists  in  dividing  the  cubito-plantar  nerve  and  in 
excising  a  portion  of  the  peripherical  end,  the  means 
of  improving  the  conditions,  and  consequently  the 
values  of  many  apparently  doomed  animals.  Agricul- 
ture in  particular  will  be  benefited. 

The  work  is  divided  into  two  parts.  The  first  covers 
the  study  of  Median  Neurotomy  itself;  the  second, 
the  exact  relations  of  the  facts  as  observed  by  the 
author.    8vo.,  boards 1  00 

—  "Mannal   of  Operative    Veterinary   Surgery"       By   A. 

Liautard,  M.D.,  V.M.,  Principal  and  Professor  of 
Anatomy,  Surgery,  Sanitary  Medicine  and  Juris- 
prudence in  the  American  Veterinary  College; 
Chevalier  du  Merite  Agricole  de  France,  Honorary 
Fellow  of  the  Royal  College  of  Veterinary  Surgeons 
(London),  etc.,  etc.  8vo,  cloth,  786  pages  and  nearly 
600  illustrations. 6  00 

—  ^* Animal   Castration."    A   concise  and   practical  Treatise 

on  the  Castration  of  the  Domestic  Animals.  The 
only  work  on  the  subject  In  the  English  language. 
Illustrated  with  forty-four  cuts.     12mo,  cloth...  2  00 

—  "Vade  Mecnm   of  Equine   Anatomy. '^     By  A.  Liautard, 

M.D.V.S.  Dean  of  the  American  Veterinary  College, 
12mo.  cloth.     New  edition,  with  illustrations  —  2  00 


851-853  Sixth  Avenue  (cor.  mh  St.),  New  York.  15 


LIAUTARD,     "Translation  of  Zundel   on   the   Horse's 
Foot."    Cloth 2  00 

—  "  How  to  Tell  the   Xge   of  the  Domestic  Animal."    By 

Dr.  A.  Liautard,    M.D.,  V.S.      Profusely  illustrated. 
12mo,  cloth 50 

—  "On    the    Lameness     of    Horses."     By    A.    Liautard, 

M.D.,V.S 2  60 

See  also  ^^CadioVs  Surgery*'*'' 

(*)— "A  Treatise  on  Veterinary  Therapeutics  of  the  Domestic 
Animals."    (See  Cadiot.) 


LONG,    "Book    of    the    Pig."      Its    selection,    Breeding, 
Feeding  and  Management.    Svo,  cloth 4  25 


{**)LOWE,  "Breeding  Racehorses  by  the  Figure 
System."  CJompiled  by  the  late  C.  Bruce  Lowe. 
Edited  by  William  Allison,  *'  The  Special  Commis- 
sioner," London  Sportsman,  Hon.  Secretary  Sporting 
League,  and  Manager  of  the  International  Horse 
Agency  and  Exchange.  With  numerous  fme  illustra- 
tions of  celebrated  horses.    Quarto,  cloth 7  50 


LUDLOW,  "  Science  in  the  Stable  ";  or  How  a  Horse  can 
be  Kept  in  Perfect  Health  and  be  Used  Without 
Shoes,  in  Harness  or  under  the  Saddle.  With  the 
Reason  Why,  Second  American  Edition.  Enlarged 
and  Exemplified.  By  Jacob  E.  Ludlow,  M.D.  Late 
Staff  Surgeon,  U.  S.  Army.    Paper,  166  pages 50 


16  Veterinary  Catalogue  of  William  H,  Jenkins 


LUPTON.  ".Horses:  Sound  and  Unsound,"  with 
Law  relating  to  Sales  and  Warranty.  By  J.  Irvine 
Lupton,  F.R.C.V.S.     8vo,  cloth,  illustrated 1  25 

—  "The  Horse."  As  he  Was,  as  he  Is,  and  as  he 
Ought  to  Be.  By  J.  I.  Lupton,  F.R.C.V.S.  Illus- 
trated.   Crown,  8vo 1  40 

MAONER.  "  Facts  for  Horse  Owners."  By  D.  Magner. 
Upwards  of  1,000  pages,  illustrated  with  900  engrav- 
ings.    8vo,  leather  binding .... .7  50 

MATHEW.        "The    lilustrated    Horse    Doctor."      An 

accurate  and  detailed  account  of  the  Various  Diseases 
to  which  the  Equine  Race  is  subject ;  together  with  the 
latest  mode  of  Treatment,  and  all  the  Requisite  Pre. 
scriptions  written  in  plain  English.  By  E.  Edward 
Mayhew,  M.R.C.V.8.  Illustrated.  Entirely  new 
edition,  8vo,  cloth 2  75 

McBBIDE,        "Anatomical    Outlines    of    the    Horse." 

12mo,  cloth.     Reduced  to 1  50 

McCOMBIE.  "Cattle  and  Cattle  Breeders."  Cloth 1  00 

M'FADTEAN.  "Anatomy  of  the  Horse."  A  Dis- 
section Guide.  By  J.  M.  M'Fadyean,  M.R.C.V.S. 
This  book  is  intended  for  Veterinary  students,  and 
offers  to  them  in  its  48  full-page  colored  plates  numer- 
ous other  engravings  and  excellent  text,  the  most 
valuable  and  practical  aid  in  the  study  of  Veterinary 
Anatomy,  especially  in  the  dissecting  room. 
8vo,  cloth .5  50 


851-853  Sixth  Avenue  (cor.  mh  iSt),  New  York.  H 


M'FADYEAN,  *'  Comparative  Anatomy  of  the  Domes- 
ticated Animals."  By  J.  M'Fadyean.  Profusely 
illustrated,  and  to  be  issued  in  two  parts. 

Part  I— Osteology,  ready.     Paper,  2.50;  cloth 2.75 

(Part  II  in  preparation.) 


MILLS.    "How  to    Keep    a    Dog    in     the    City.''    By 

Wesley  Mills,  M.D.,  V.S.  It  tells  how  to  choose, 
manage,  house,  feed,  educate  the  pup,  how  to  keep  him 
clean  and  teach  him  cleanliness.    Paper 25 


MOLLEB,  "Operatiye  Veterinary  Snrgery."  By  Profes- 
sor Dr.  H.  MoUer,  Berlin.  Translated  and  edited 
from  the  2nd  edition,  enlarged  and  improved,  by 
John   A.  W.  Dollar,  M.R.C.S. 

Prof.  Moller's  work  presents  the  most  recent  and 
complete  exposition  of  the  Principles  and  Practice  of 
Veterinary  Surgery,  and  is  the  standard  text-book  on  the 
subject  throughout  Germany. 

Many  subjects  ignored  in  previous  treatises  on 
Veterinary  Surgery  here  receive  full  consideration, 
while  the  better  known  are  presented  under  new  and 
suggestive  aspects. 

As  Prof.  Moller's  work  represents  not  only  his 
own  opinions  and  practice,  but  those  of  the  best 
Veterinary  Surgeons  of  various  countries,  the  trans- 
lation cannot  fail  to  be  of  signal  service  to  American 
and  British  Veterinarians  and  to  Students  of  Veter- 
inary and  Comparative  Surgery. 
1  vol.,  8vo.    722  pages,  142  illustrations 5  25 


MOnETON.    "  On  Horse-breaking,"    12mo,  el 50 


18  Veterinary  Catalogue  of  William  E.  Jenkins 


MOSSEI^MAJU'LIENA  UX,  "  Veterinary  iMicrobio- 
logy."  By  Professors  Mosselman  and  Lienaux, 
Nat.  Veterinary  College,  Cureghem,  Belgium.  Trans- 
lated and  edited  by  K.  R.  Dinwiddle,  Professor  of 
Veterinary  Science,  College  of  Agriculture,  Arkansas 
State  University.    12mo,  cloth,  342  pages 2  00 

NOCABD.  ••  The  Animal  Tuberculoses,  and  their  Relation 
to  Human  Tuberculosis."  By  Ed.  Nocard,  Professor 
of  the  Alfort  Veterinary  College.  Translated  by 
H.  Scurfield,  M.D.  Ed.,  Ph.  Camb. 

Perhaps  the  chief  interest  to  doctors  of  human 
medicine  in  Professor  Nocard's  book  lies  in  the 
demonstration  of  the  small  part  played  by  heredity, 
and  the  great  part  played  by  contagion  in  the  propa- 
gation of  bovine  tuberculosis.  It  seems  not  unreason- 
able to  suppose  that  the  same  is  the  case  for  human 
tuberculosis,  and  that,  if  the  children  of  tuberculosis 
parents  were  protected  from  infection  by  cohabitation 
or  ingestion,  the  importance  of  heredity  as  a  cause  of 
the  disease,  or  even  of  the  predisposition  to  it,  would 
dwindle  away  into  insignificance. 
12mo,  cloth,  143  pages 1  00 

PEGLEB.  "The  Book  of  the  Ooat/»  12mo,  cloth 1  75 

PELLEBIN,  "Median  Neurotomy  in  the  Treatment 
of  Chronic  Tendinitis  and  Periostosis  of  the  Fetlock." 

By  C.  Pellerin,  late  repetitor  of  Clinic  and  Surgery  to 
the  Alfort  Veterinary  School.  Translated,  with  Addi- 
tional Facts  Relating  to  It,  by  Prof.  A.  Liautard,  M.D., 

V.M,    8vo,  boards,  illustrated 1  00- 

tSee  also  "  Liautard," 


851-853  Sixth  Avenue  {cor.  4Sth  St.),  New  York.  19 


PETERS.  *'  A  Tuberculous  Herd— Test  yriih  Tuber- 
culin." By  Austin  Peters,  M.  R.  C.  V.  S.,  Chief 
Inspector  of  Cattle  for  tlie  New  York  State  Board  of 
Health  during  the  winter  of  1892-93.    Pamphlet 25 

*)PFEIFFER  -  WILLIAMS.  "  A  Course  of  Surgical 
Operations  for  Veterinary  Students  and  Practi- 
tioners." By  W.  Pfeiffer,  Assistant  in  the  Surgical 
Clinic  of  the  Veterinary  High  School  in  Berlin,  and 
W,  L.  Williams,  V.S.,  Professor  of  Surgery  in  the 
New  York  State  Veterinary  College,  Cornell  Univer- 
sity, Ithaca,  N.  Y. 

A  concise  description  of  the  more  common  major 
surgical  operations,  designed  as  a  laboratory  guide  in 
surgical  exercises  for  veterinary  students  and  as  a 
ready  reference  for  practitioners  in  surgical  opera- 
tions. Based  upon  a  translation  of  Dr.  Pfeiffer's 
«' Operations-Cursus,"  embodying  the  experience  of 
Dr.  Pfeiffer  and  Prof.  Dr.  Frohner  in  the  Berlin 
Veterinary  School.  With  numerous  annotations  there 
have  been  added  many  of  the  newer,  largely  distinc- 
tively American,  operations. 
With  42  illustrations,  12mo,  cloth 1  25 


REYNOLD,     "Breeding  and  Management    of    Draugbt 
Horses."    8vo,  cloth 1  40 


ROBERGE,  "  The  Foot  of  the  Horse,"  or  Lameness 
and  all  Diseases  of  the  Feet  traced  to  an  Unbalanced 
Foot  Bone,  prevented  or  cured  by  balancing  the  foot. 
By  David  Roberge.    8vo,  cloth 6  00 


ao  Veterinary  Catalogue  of  William  R.  Jenkins 


{**)SEWELL.  "  The  Examination  of  Horses  as  to  Sound- 
ness and  Selection  as  to  Purchase."  By  Edward 
SeweU,  M.E.C.V.S.L.    8vo,  paper 1  60 

It  is  a  great  advantage  to  the  business  man  to 

know  sometliing  of  the  elements  of  law.  and  nobody 
ought  either  to  buy  or  own  a  horse  who  does  not  know 
sometliing  about  the  animal.    That  something  this  book 

gives,  and  gives  in  a  thoroughly  excellent  way 

Our  Animal  Friends,  November,  1898. 


SMITH.     **A   Mannal   of  Teterinary   Physiology."     By 

Veterinary  Captain  F.  Smith,  M.R.O.V.8.     Author  of 
♦•  A  Manual  of  Veterinary  Hygiene." 

Throughout  this  manual  the  object  has  been  to  con- 
dense the  information  as  much  as  possible.  The 
broad  facts  of  the  sciences  are  stated  so  as  to  render 
them  of  use  to  the  student  and  practitioner.  In  this 
second  edition— rewritten— the  whole  of  the  Nervous 
System  has  been  revised,  a  new  chapter  dealing  with 
the  Development  of  the  Ovum  has  been  added  together 
with  many  additional  facts  and  illustrations.  About 
one  hundred  additional  pages  are  given.  Second 
edition^  revised  and  enlarged,  with  additional  illus- 
trations  3  75 

—  ^^ Manual  of  Veterinary  Hygiene."    2nd  edition,  revised. 
Crown,  8vo,  cloth 3  25 


(**)STRANGEWAY.        "Veterinary    Anatomy."     New 

edition,  revised   and  edited  by  I.  Vaughan,  F.L.S., 

M.R.C.V.S.,  with  several  hundred  illustrations. 

8vo,  cloth 5  00 


851-853  Sixth  Avenue  {cor.  i8th  St.),  New  York  21 


')SUSSDOBF,     "Large  Colored  Wall  Diagrams."     By 

Professor  Sussdoif,  M.D.  (of  Gottingen).  Text 
translated  by  Prof.  W.  Owen  Williams,  of  the  New 
Veterinary  College,  Edinburgh.  Size,  44  inches  by 
30  inches. 

1.— Horse.  4.— Ox. 

2.— Mare.  5.— Boar  and  Sow. 

3.— Cow.  6.— Dog  and  Bilch. 

Showing  the  position  of  the  viscera  in  the  large 
cavities  of  the  body. 

Price,  unmounted 1  75  each 

♦*      mounted  on  linen,  with  roller 3  50    ♦♦ 


r)VAN  MATEB.    "  A  Text   Book  of  Teterinary  Oph- 

thalmology."  By  George  G.  Van  Mater,  M.D., 
D.V.S.,  Professor  of  Ophthalmology  in  the  American 
Veterinary  College ;  Oculist  and  Aurist  to  St.  Martha's 
Sanitarium  and  Dispensary ;  Consulting  Eye  and  Ear 
Surgeon  to  the  v^wenty-sixth  Ward  Dispensary  ;  Eye 
and  Ear  Surgeon,  Brooklyn  Eastern  District  Dispen- 
sary, etc.  lUustrate'd  by  one  chromo  lithograph  plate 
and  seventy-one  engravings,  8vo  cloth 3  00 

VETERINARY      DIAGRAMS      in     Tabular      Form. 
Size,  28|  in.  x  22  inches.    Price  per  set  of  five 4  75 

No.  1.  '<The  External  Form  and  Elementary  Ana- 
tomy of  the  Horse."  Eight  colored  illustrations — 
1.  External  regions;  2.  Skeleton ;  3.  Muscles  (Superior 
Layer) ;  4.  Muscles  (Deep  Layer) ;  5.  Respiratory  Ap- 
paratus; 6.  Digestive  Apparatus ;  7.  Circulatory  Ap- 
paratus ;  8.  Nerve  Apparatus ;  with  letter-press  descrip- 
tion  1  25 


22    .  Veterinary  Catalogue  of  William  R.  Jenkins 


No.  2.  "The  Age  of  Domestic  Animals."  Forty-two 
figures  illustrating  the  structure  of  the  teeth,  indicat- 
ing the  Age  of  the  Horse,  Ox,  Sheep,  and  Dog,  with 
full  description 76 

No.  3.    "The  Unsoundness  and  Defects  of  the  Horse." 

Fifty  figures  illustrating— 1.  The  Defects  of  Confor- 
mation ;  2.  Defects  of  Position  ;  3.  Infirmities  or  Signs 
of  Disease ;  4.  Unsoundnesses ;  5.  Defects  of  the  Foot ; 
with  full  description 75 

No.  4.    "The  Shoeing  of  the  Horse,  Mule  and  Ox." 

Fifty  figures  descriptive  of  the  Anatomy  and  Physio- 
logy of  the  Foot  and  of  Horse-shoeing.  75 

No.  5.  "The  Elementary  Anatomy,  Points,  and  But- 
cher's Joints  of  the  Ox."  Ten  colored  illustrations 
—  1.  Skeleton;  2,  Nervous  System:  3.  Digestive 
System  (Right  Side);  4.  Respiratory  System  ;  6.  Points 
of  a  Fat  Ox ;  6.  Muscular  System  ;  7.  Vascular  System ; 
8.  Digestive  System  (Left  Side) ;  9.  Butcher's  Sections 
of  a  Calf;  10.  Butcher's  Sections  of  an  Ox ;  with  full- 
description  . . 1  25 


WALLEY.    "A  Practical  Guide  to  Meat  Inspection."    By 

Thomas  Walley,  M.R.C.V.S.,  formerly  principal  of 
the  Edinburgh  Royjil  (Dick)  Veterinary  College ;  Pro- 
fessor of  Veterinary  Medicine  and  Surgery,  etc.  Third 
Edition,  thoroughly  revised,  with  forty-five  colored 

illustrations,  12mo,  cloth 3  00 

Temporarily  out  of  print.  (4th  edition  in  preparation.) 
An  experience  of  over  30  years  in  his  profession 
and  a  long  oflQcial  connection  (some  sixteen  years) 
with  Edinburgh  Abattoirs  have  enabled  the  author  to 
gather  a  large  store  of  information  on  the  subject, 
which  he  has  embodied  in  his  book.  Dr.  Walley's  opi- 
nions are  regarded  as  the  highest  authority  on  Meat 
Inspection. 


851-863  Sixth  Avenue  {cor.  iSth  St.),  New  York 


WALLET,  "  Four  Boyine  Scourges."  (Plcuro-Pneumonia, 
Foot  and  Mouth  Disease,  Cattle  Plague  and 
Tubercle.)  With  an  Appendix  on  the  Inspection  of 
Live  Animals  and  Meat.    Illustrated,  dto,  cloth.  .6  40 

WILLIAMS.  "Principles  and  Practice  of  Teterinary 
Medicine."  New  author's  edition,  entirely  revised 
and  illustrated  with  numerous  plain  and  colored 
plates.  By  W.  Williams,  M.R.O.V.S.  8vo.,  cloth.  .6  00 

—  "Prindples  and  Practice  of  Teterinary  Surgery."    New 

author's  edition,  entirely  revised  and  illustrated 
with  numerous  plain  and  colored  plates.  By  W. 
Williams,  M.R.C.V.S.     8vo,  cloth 6  00 

nWILLIAMS  '  PFEIWFER.  "A  Course  of  Surgical 
Operations  for  Veterinary  Students  and  Practi-- 
tioners."    By  W.  Pfeiffer  and  W.  L.  Williams,  V.S. 

With  42  illustrations,  12mo,  cloth 1  25 

Sek  also  "  Pfeiffer-  Williams . ' ' 

(*)  WINSL O  W,  ''Veterinary  Materia  Medica  and  Tlierapeu- 
tics."  By  Kenelm  Winslow,  B.A.S.,  M.D.V.,  M.D., 
(Harv.)4  Assistant  Professor  of  Therapeutics  in  the 
Veterinary  School  of  Harvard  University  ;  Fellow  of 
the  Massachusetts  Medical  Society ;  Surgeon  to  the 
Newton  Hospital,  etc. 
8vo,  cloth,  750  pages 6  00 

{**)WYMAN,  "Tlie  Clinical  Diagnosis  of  Lameness 
in  the  Horse."  By  W.  E.  A.  Wyman,  V.S.,  Prof,  of 
Veterinary  Science,  Clemson  A.  &  M.  College,  and 
Veterinarian  to  the  South  Carolina  Experiment  Sta- 
tion.   8vo,  clo  th,  illustrated 2  50 


24  Veterinary  Catalogue  of  Wiltiam  R.  Jenkins 


{*)W¥MAN.  "Bovine  Obstetrics."  By  M.  G.  De  Bruin, 
Instructor  of  Obstetrics  at  the  State  Veterinary 
School  in  Utrecht.  Translated  by  W.  E.  A.  Wyman, 
M.D.V.,  V.S.,  Professor  of  Veterinary  Science, 
Glemson  A.  &  M.  Ck)llege,  and  Veterinarian  to  the 
South  Carolina  Experiment  Station. 

8vo,  cloth,  382  pages,  77  illustrations 5  00 

See  also  '' De  Bruin." 


ZUNDEL,      "The    Horse's   Foot   and   Its   Diseases."    By 

A.  Zundel,  Principal  Veterinarian  of  Alsace  Lorraine. 
Translated  by  Dr.  A.  Liautard,  V.8.  12mo,  cloth 
illustrated 2  00 


ZUILL,  "Typhoid  Fever;  or  Contagions  Inflaenza 
in  the  Horse."  By  Prof.  W.  L.  Zuill,  M.D.,D.V.S. 
Pamphlet / 26 


Our  Books  are  for  sale  by   all  booksellers, 
or  will  be  sent  prepaid  for  the  prices  here  quoted, 

WILLIAH  R.  JENKINS, 

851  and  853  Sixth  Avenue, 
NEW  YORK. 


V 


UNIVERSITY  OP  CALIFORNIA  LIBRARY 


THIS  BOOK  IS  DUE  ON  THE  LAST  DATE 
STAMPED  BELOW 


sTpso 

OCT  14 


/■ 


vj 


